If there is one takeaway for styling a trench right now, it’s this: let it breathe. The days of tight, restrictive tailoring are over. To keep your look from feeling like a costume, remember these three golden rules:

• Size Up for Style: A slightly oversized silhouette is the easiest way to make a classic coat feel current. If you’re between sizes, always go for the larger fit to allow for those effortless layers.

• Let the Shoes Do the Heavy Lifting: Your footwear is the ultimate vibe-shifter. A chunky loafer or a high-top sneaker instantly ‘de-formalizes’ the trench, making it work for real life.

• The ‘Peak-a-Boo’ Strategy: Don’t let the coat do all the work. Ensure your outfit underneath—whether it’s a pop of denim or a crisp collar—is visible to create depth and interest.