There are certainly perks to my job. Last week, for example, I was one of the very first people to get a preview of the new autumn/winter collection from Marks & Spencer. Obviously, I was truly spoilt for choice (and shocked) with the amount of designer-looking and unique pieces on offer. A couple of standouts include its Faux Fur Cow Print Trucker Jacket and a Collarless Tailored Jacket, both of which have serious viral potential (along with these 19 other new-in pieces). However, there was one piece that didn't just catch my eye, but actually had me searching for it online (while I was still in the showroom, too), and it's the Textured Belted Longline Trench Coat.
If, like me, you've been on the hunt for an autumn jacket that's sleek yet striking, then M&S's new croc-embossed longline glossy trench is going to be right up your street. Designed with a collared neckline, buttoned strap cuffs and a tie belt to pull you in at the waist, the soon-to-be-viral trench coat is perfect for those days when you have no idea what to wear and just have one style requirement: warmth. With a relaxed fit, make sure to size up if you want to make sure you've got room for a cashmere jumper underneath.
Shop: The M&S Chocolate Trench Coat
M&S www.marksandspencer.com
This double-breasted trench coat from the newest autumn/winter M&S collection is one that will sell out (hesitation really isn't advised). With a belt that cinches your waist, long sleeves and oversized lapels, it's the jacket I'm sure you'll be reaching for all winter long.
The textured trench coat is effectively autumn, bottled and, well, belted. It takes the shape of a classic trench coat and dials up the drama with a 'bitter chocolate' finish that feels both chic and luxurious. The croc texture also adds depth, giving it the kind of sheen that makes it look far more expensive than its under £100 high street price tag. To style, throw it on over a cashmere roll-neck and wide-leg trousers, and it works just as well with jeans and trainers when you want to look like you've made at least a little bit of effort.
So, here we are. What was just a sneak peek last week has now officially landed on the M&S website, and judging by the fact that a couple of sizes are already out of stock, I don't get the hunch that it's going to be around for long. Don't let it be a case of the mad trolley dash we all did to try and (fail) to get our hands on the viral M&S barn jacket. Instead, get this chocolatey take on the trench now, while you still can.
Shop: Alternative Leather Trench Coats
COS www.cos.com
COS's Croc-Embossed Leather Coat is one you can easily layer by throwing on a chunky roll neck underneath, and features a statement-making angular collar and tonal topstitching. Made from 100% leather and rendered in a deep brown tone, it's a good one to have in your wardrobe this autumn/winter.
River Islandwww.riverisland.com
River Island's take on a leather trench coat also features the same croc-embossed pattern, as well as a belted middle and oversized lapels. Wear done up with a pair of colourful trousers and kitten heels, or style undone over the top of a t-shirt and jeans.
Anthropologiewww.anthropologie.com
Anthropologie's Faux-Leather Car Coat features the same smart details, like a tie belt, side welt pockets and buttoned front, but looks far more matte than the other iterations. Finish the look with a chunky checked scarf and loafers.
Arketwww.arket.com
Made from 100% leather, Arket's coat has undergone a chrome-free tanning process and features a single-breasted style and notch lapel. With a fully lined interior to keep you warm on your freezing cold commuters, layer a cosy jumper and cashmere trousers underneath.
Main image credit: Instagram/@kimturkington_, @marksandspencer_sam
Gemma Lavers is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia, where she tracks down viral pieces and is as comfortable navigating the M&S new-in page as she is dissecting the latest celebrity look. When not writing, shopping or at Reformer Pilates (a cliché but she's hooked), Gemma will likely be planning her next holiday (and what she's going to wear). For a glimpse into said travels, outfit inspo and life as a journalist, follow her on Instagram or TikTok.