It makes sense that the spring runways would be filled with the kind of light layers and liberally skin-baring silhouettes that can only be worn during the warmer months. And while we’ll have to patiently wait for winter to melt away before wearing the majority of the season’s top looks, we did spot one standout trend that we’re already inspired to start wearing now: floor-length coats.
Designers in Paris, Milan, and New York introduced maxi-length coats to the 2023 style lexicon, and since ankle-grazing hemlines in dresses and skirts are already popular this year, there’s no question this outerwear take will also be a hit. Whether they were coated in luxurious leather like the tonal versions Saint Laurent sent down the runway or billowy and floor sweeping like Peter Do’s trench coats, one thing is clear. The time to drape yourself in a massive cocoon-like coat is now.
Translate the trend into your fall and winter wardrobes by shopping the 20 ankle-length coats I’ve picked out below.
At its show under the glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower, Saint Laurent presented a number of floor-grazing coats in glossy leather that created tonal ensembles with the sleek maxi dresses they were layered over. The collection was comprised of at least five of these looks, which is a sure sign that maxi coats are bound to be a big trend. In fact, it’s only a matter of time until Saint Laurent darling Hailey Bieber dons one. (She’s already worn the dress solo.)
While the spring/summer 2023 coats won’t land in stores until next spring, I found this wooly version with the same silhouette sitting at Net-a-Porter.
One of my favorite brands for wardrobe basics is Favorite Daughter, and it has created the perfect winter maxi.
Outerwear stalwart Max Mara sent several longline coats down its spring runway in notably soft and unstructured shapes.
The bell sleeves and off-center closure make this a standout winter pick.
There are few staples quite as enduring as robe coats, and Anine Bing perfectly captures the minimalist-chic feel they exude.
Well known in fashion circles for his forward-thinking tailoring, New York–based Peter Do also backed the long-coat look with a dramatic billowing trench that topped crisp basics.
This trend is hardly the only reason why you should invest in a classic trench coat, but it’s a pretty good one.
Naturally, Reformation is in on the look. I’m jotting down this belted styling idea from its site.
It comes as no surprise that these long tailored coats showed up in The Row’s spring collection as well, seeing as they’re part of the brand’s minimalist DNA and a defining item in designers Ashley and Mary-Kate’s own wardrobes.
Simple yet so striking.
The sharp shoulders and double-breasted shape here are just beautiful.
Sleek and minimal may not be the words I’d use to describe Diesel, but the newly revamped Italian house proved that maxi coats can appeal to the edgy and grungy among us.
Take a closer look at that Western paneling. I promise it’s worth it.
A leather trench coat is the quickest way to ensure a cool look.
Interior is a relatively new brand on the scene, but it’s been on the lips of insiders since fashion week dropped anchor in New York. This runway look is a good reason to pay attention. It layers a longline coat over a blazer of the same shade to create a cool take on tailoring. I’ll surely be re-creating it the second I get a chance.
Just think of the dramatic way this floor-length trench will move behind you as you walk.
Soft tailoring was another big theme we saw throughout the spring 2023 collections, and H&M is already on it.
From quiet wool versions to graphic logo embossing, Valentino’s cape-coat hybrid proves just how many iterations there are to be had from this trend.
The marled texture makes this feel so sophisticated.
I just know this is wildly comfortable to throw on.
When it comes to these coats, tonal styling seems to be a big way to wear them. Try a singular shade like this delicious camel at Ferragamo for one cohesive look.
Revolve clearly got the styling memo, too, mixing shades of brown.
If you showed me this image out of context, I’d 100% think it were from a luxury brand.
Tory Burch took a sportier approach with a lightweight nylon trench that topped off leggings and bold color-blocking.
It’s giving rich aunt.
A closet classic, plain and simple.
At Bally, a maxi coat creates balance between a liberally cut bodysuit. I’d translate this dramatic leg moment into a more wearable look by pairing a minidress with a long coat.
The cocoon shape of this one is perfection.
If you’re not into a floor-length coat, this below-the-knee hemline achieves the same look.
