The Resurgence of the Leather Trench Coat: How Hollywood’s Elite Are Redefining a Classic Trend
Once a symbol of espionage and sci-fi lore, the leather trench coat has roared back into the fashion spotlight, capturing the imaginations of Hollywood’s most influential style icons. From the trendsetting Jenner-Kardashian clan to supermodels like the Hadids and Kaia Gerber, this iconic outerwear piece is no longer confined to the silver screen or cyberpunk aesthetics. Instead, it’s being reinvented with a sophisticated, modern twist, cementing its status as a must-have item in any contemporary wardrobe. The enduring appeal of the trench coat, now reimagined in luxurious leather, lies in its unparalleled versatility and ability to instantly elevate any ensemble. It’s a garment that effortlessly combines edgy cool with timeless elegance, making it a favorite among celebrities looking to make a powerful fashion statement.
The leather trench coat’s journey through fashion history is a fascinating one, deeply rooted in practicality before ascending to haute couture. Originally designed for military officers during World War I, its durable construction and weather-resistant properties made it an indispensable utility garment. Post-war, it transitioned into civilian life, gaining popularity as a stylish yet functional piece. The mid-20th century saw its romanticization in classic cinema, often associated with detectives, femme fatales, and rebels, lending it an air of mystery and intrigue. Its most recent widespread popularization prior to this current wave was undoubtedly in the late 1990s and early 2000s, spearheaded by films like The Matrix, where Neo’s full-length black leather trench became synonymous with a futuristic, cyberpunk aesthetic. Now, over two decades later, Hollywood’s current crop of style leaders are breathing new life into this classic, demonstrating its adaptability across various personal styles and occasions. This renewed interest highlights a broader trend in fashion: the cyclical nature of iconic pieces and their continuous reinterpretation for new generations.
Hailey Bieber: The Art of Effortless Oversized Chic
Hailey Bieber (née Baldwin), a bonafide trendsetter, masterfully showcased the modern leather trench on May 11th, opting for a statement-making oversized silhouette. Her choice of a voluminous black leather Magda Butrym Winter 2021 Coat exemplifies the current lean towards comfort and exaggerated proportions, offering a fresh take on the traditional fitted trench. Instead of pairing it with equally sleek pieces, Hailey contrasted the dramatic coat with laid-back baggy white Materiel Linen Trousers and a simple cropped white T-shirt. This clever juxtaposition of structured leather and relaxed separates creates a balance that is both high-fashion and incredibly wearable.
Her accessories further cemented this sophisticated yet accessible aesthetic: Linda Farrow x the Attico Irene Sunglasses added a touch of celebrity glamour, while a Prada Brushed Leather Bag introduced a high-end touch. Jennifer Fisher Samira Huggies Earrings provided subtle sparkle, and Adidas Continental 80 Sneakers grounded the entire look with an undeniable cool-girl vibe. Hailey’s ensemble perfectly encapsulates how to wear the oversized leather trench: make it the focal point, but allow other elements to soften its intensity, proving that high fashion can indeed be comfortable and chic. This particular styling approach highlights the jacket’s versatility, moving it away from its more formal connotations into the realm of elevated street style.
Kendall Jenner: Edgy Elegance with a Modern Twist
Not to be outdone, Hailey’s close friend and fellow supermodel Kendall Jenner brought her signature edgy aesthetic to the leather trench trend during an outing in NYC on February 15th. Kendall’s choice of a floor-length black leather Materiel Leather Cut Out Coat was a bold statement, which she chose to wear open, offering a glimpse of her enviably toned abs in a sleek black crop top. This daring styling decision injects a youthful, contemporary energy into the classic trench, transforming it from a mere outer layer into an integral part of a carefully constructed outfit.
Her ensemble was completed with black I.Am.Gia Black Halo Pants, known for their modern, fitted silhouette, creating a streamlined and elongated look. The casual yet luxurious Louis Vuitton Pouchette Eva Bag, paired with classic white Nike Air Force 1 Sneakers, grounded the high-fashion elements with a touch of urban cool. Black Kim Kardashian West x Carolina Lemke Dusk Sunglasses added a final touch of mystery and celebrity allure, perfectly complementing the trench’s inherent coolness. Kendall’s approach demonstrates how to leverage the leather trench for an impactful, confident look that combines luxury with a touch of rebellious street style. The open coat paired with a crop top has become a hallmark of her personal style, blending high-end pieces with accessible, casual elements.
Kourtney Kardashian: Mastering the Trench in Multiple Hues
Kourtney Kardashian has fully embraced the leather trench coat trend, showcasing its adaptability across various occasions and color palettes. One memorable instance was her appearance at Dan Tana’s restaurant in West Hollywood on February 11th. She exuded sophistication in an oversized brown tan leather trench coat, cinched at the waist with a tight belt. This styling trick not only highlighted her figure but also added a touch of polished elegance to the relaxed fit of the coat. Under the jacket, Kourtney opted for fitted and flared gray jeans, a delicate lace black top, and pointed-toe booties, creating a harmonious blend of textures and classic elements.
Kourtney’s commitment to the trend was further evident on January 24th, when she sported not one, but two distinct leather trench outfits in a single day, illustrating the coat’s incredible versatility. Her daytime look featured a light tan Frame Leather Trench Coat, layered over black skinny jeans and paired with chic black leather The Row Zipped Boots. A Fendi Zucca Mini Pochette Bag and Port Tanger Leila Acetate Sunglasses completed this sophisticated and practical ensemble, perfect for running errands in style.
Later that day, she transformed her look by donning high-waisted brown Nanushka Marfa Jeans, paired with a plunging V-neck brown satin bodysuit tucked in. The pièce de résistance was a dark brown Theory Varnished Leather Coat in Dark Roast, which she wore open to reveal the elegant bodysuit beneath. She maintained consistency with the same stylish sunglasses from earlier and finished the look with sophisticated black Celine Madame Boots. Kourtney’s sartorial choices demonstrate that the leather trench coat is not just a versatile piece in terms of style, but also in color, seamlessly transitioning from lighter earth tones to rich, dark hues, proving its enduring appeal across various fashion moods and settings.
Emily Ratajkowski: Patent Leather Prowess
Emily Ratajkowski introduced another dimension to the leather trench trend during her New York City outing on December 28th. Known for her fearless and often unexpected style combinations, Emily chose a black patent leather Loewe Belted Shearling Coat. This particular trench stood out with its luxurious fluffy white collar and a belt that artfully cinched her tiny waist, creating a visually striking silhouette. The patent leather finish adds a glossy, futuristic edge, distinguishing it from matte or brushed leather coats seen on other celebrities.
In a bold move that typifies her unique approach to fashion, Emily expertly styled this opulent coat with unexpected elements: comfortable gray sweatpants and a cream Orseund Iris Cropped Ribbed-Knit Turtleneck Sweater. This high-low mix of luxurious outerwear with casual athleisure creates a dynamic tension that is both chic and incredibly comfortable. Reality Xray Specs in Turtle and a pair of Stella McCartney Ultra Boost Sneakers further solidified this effortlessly cool, urban aesthetic. Emily’s outfit is a masterclass in contrasting textures and styles, proving that the leather trench coat can be surprisingly versatile, even when rendered in a high-shine patent finish, and can be integrated into the most relaxed yet stylish ensembles.
Kaia Gerber: Casual Cool with a Classic Twist
Supermodel Kaia Gerber, a consistent purveyor of effortless street style, has also embraced the leather trench coat, making it a staple in her rotation of chic leather jackets. Her appearance in NYC on October 13th perfectly encapsulated her casual-cool approach to the trend. Kaia paired her black Danielle Guizo Belted Leather Trench Coat with baggy high-waisted blue jeans and a simple black sweater. This combination highlights the trench coat’s ability to elevate even the most straightforward denim-and-sweater look.
Her choice of footwear—white Cactus Plant Flea Market x Nike Air Force 1 Low sneakers—further accentuated the laid-back, yet intentional, vibe of her outfit. To complete her effortlessly stylish look, Kaia donned a ’47 New York Yankees Hat, adding a touch of sporty irreverence. Kaia’s styling demonstrates how the leather trench can be seamlessly integrated into an everyday wardrobe, proving that it doesn’t always have to be a formal statement piece. It can serve as the perfect finishing touch to a comfortable and fashionable daytime ensemble, blending high fashion with accessible, urban elements. Her approach makes the trend approachable for a wider audience, demonstrating its adaptability for day-to-day wear.
Kim Kardashian: The Monochromatic Power Statement
The Kardashian-Jenner sisters are undeniably at the forefront of this trend, each interpreting the leather trench in their unique way. Kim Kardashian, known for her groundbreaking and often daring fashion choices, presented a powerful, monochromatic interpretation. She was seen in an all-black ensemble that exuded her signature sleek aesthetic: skin-tight, high-waisted shiny Yeezy pants paired with a long-sleeve t-shirt tucked in. While the base was unmistakably Kim’s style, the true star of her outfit was her fabulous long, thin black Gucci by Tom Ford coat. This vintage piece, from a revered era of Gucci design, added a layer of sophisticated luxury and a touch of fashion history to her otherwise modern look.
She completed this commanding outfit with Balenciaga Knife Ankle Boots, known for their sharp silhouette and edgy appeal, perfectly aligning with the trench’s inherent power. Kim’s look is a testament to the leather trench coat’s capacity to create an impactful, unified statement, especially when styled in a singular, dominant color. Her choice to keep the ensemble entirely black, from the fitted undergarments to the flowing trench, enhances the garment’s dramatic effect, showcasing a blend of high fashion, vintage allure, and her personal brand of minimalist-chic. This particular styling highlights the trench coat as a centerpiece, not just an accessory, in a carefully curated, high-impact fashion statement.
Gigi Hadid: Reddish-Brown Sophistication
Supermodel Gigi Hadid also proved to be a fervent fan of the leather trench coat, offering a refreshingly chic take in a less conventional hue. Gigi looked unbelievably sophisticated when she opted for an extra-long reddish-brown leather Tommy Hilfiger jacket. This particular trench featured a full zip-up front and was cinched at her petite waist with a thick, defining belt, creating a flattering and sculpted silhouette. The reddish-brown shade provided a warm, earthy alternative to the ubiquitous black, adding a touch of rich color that felt both modern and timeless.
Gigi’s styling was deliberate and impactful: she chose to keep the bodice of the jacket open, strategically revealing a captivating array of layered necklaces. This simple yet effective detail added depth and personal flair to her ensemble, drawing attention to her décolletage and infusing the look with a bohemian-luxe sensibility. She topped off her outfit with a pair of matching leather slouchy boots, creating a cohesive and effortlessly elegant statement that spoke volumes about her sophisticated personal style. Gigi’s interpretation showcases the leather trench coat’s adaptability beyond classic black, demonstrating how unique color choices and thoughtful accessorizing can transform the garment into a truly personalized fashion moment, radiating confidence and understated glamour.
The Enduring Appeal and Versatility of the Leather Trench
The renewed dominance of the leather trench coat in celebrity fashion is not merely a passing fad; it speaks to the garment’s inherent power and incredible versatility. These stars are proving that the leather trench is far more than just a coat – it’s a transformative piece that can define an entire look. Whether it’s Hailey Bieber’s oversized minimalism, Kendall Jenner’s edgy deconstruction, Kourtney Kardashian’s multi-faceted styling, Emily Ratajkowski’s patent leather statement, Kaia Gerber’s casual sophistication, Kim Kardashian’s monochromatic power, or Gigi Hadid’s luxurious warmth, each celebrity offers a distinct and inspiring take on how to wear this iconic piece.
For those looking to integrate this trend into their own wardrobe, the possibilities are endless. A classic black leather trench offers timeless appeal, easily paired with everything from tailored trousers for a business-chic look to distressed denim for weekend cool. Brown or tan versions provide a softer, more approachable aesthetic, perfect for layering over knits in autumn or light dresses in spring. Consider experimenting with different textures, such as patent leather for a bold statement or faux leather for an ethical alternative. The key lies in finding a cut and fit that complements your personal style – whether it’s a structured, belted silhouette for a classic vibe, or an oversized, flowing design for a contemporary edge.
The leather trench coat has solidified its place as a fashion staple, bridging the gap between historical significance and modern-day chic. Its ability to adapt to diverse styles and occasions, coupled with its undeniable cool factor, ensures its longevity in the ever-evolving world of fashion. As Hollywood’s hottest stars continue to champion this enduring garment, it’s clear that the leather trench coat is here to stay, inspiring fashion enthusiasts globally to embrace its power, elegance, and timeless allure. It’s an investment piece that promises to deliver style and confidence for seasons to come.