Women's trench coats are a quintessentially British fashion classic, that were first developed as functional rain coats for Army officers in the early 20th century, but soon absorbed into mainstream fashion as a chic, practical and respectable form of outerwear. Though Aquascutum and Burberry were the first fashion houses to manufacture trench coats for women, nowadays a huge number of clothing brands offer their own versions of the classic women's trench coat. Usually double breasted with large lapels and a belt around the waist, trench coats come in various neutral colours such as navy, camel and black. You can also find trenches for women in more unusual colours and varied designs, however, perhaps with a flared skirt, oversized collar or shorter length. Trench coats work perfectly with almost any outfit, whether it is a pretty party dress or jeans and a T-shirt.