Proof This Trend Is For Everyone: Amal Clooney And Cardi B Wore The Same Coat

Published on28th March 2018 at 11.34am

For spring-summer 18, one of the most dominant trends came not just from the catwalk, but from the street too. The simple, humble practicality afforded by a khaki trench coat has become the investment item of the season. And, in a twist that no one saw coming, two opposites on the sartorial spectrum have embraced it: Amal Clooney and Cardi B.

One is a human rights lawyer with a career that has seen her work with the United Nations as well as represent the state of Cambodia and Julian Assange. The other is a rapper and reality TV star whose debut single, Bodak Yellow, went triple platinum and was called by The New York Times, ‘the rap anthem of the summer’. It would be safe to say other than fame and excellence in their chosen careers these women have little in common. And, yet they found themselves both sporting the same Alexander Wang raincoat.

The piece in question, Cardi B wore to New York Fashion Week, while Clooney debuted on route to a meeting. The rapper belted hers as a dress and teamed it with thigh-high boots, while the lawyer was made it office-ready with nude court shoes and a binder under her arm.

At times fashion can be a place where outré trends take precedence, but over at Burberry, Vestments, 3.1 Philip Lim and Céline, it’s the trench coat that’s a main topic of consideration. In contrast with other trends, like micro bags and transparent plastic, this is an easy outfit building block. Simultaneously practical and chic, it’s allure is its seemingly timeless status.

However, for spring it’s not that straightforward, it’s fabrication and fit has been reconsidered. Belts have been upgraded, widths have been widened and colours have become murkier. As a result, the trench feels fresh for a season where it’s persuasive lightweight shower-proof practicality is very necessary.

May weather-appropriate fashion continue to raise the sartorial stakes.