The traditional trench has managed to outlive all the latest fashion trends and is embraced by every new generation. It goes with everything and hides all figure flaws with its stiff fabric. It just at home in the evening, slung over a cocktail dress as it is in the day.
What started out life in 1856 as practical attire for British soldiers in the First World War trenches has been embraced by the fashion world as a classic wardrobe staple and is now worn by more women than men.
The trench is seductive; it has an air of mystery, adds a hint of sexiness and oozes glamour. “Put on a trench and you’re suddenly Audrey Hepburn walking along the Seine, even if you’ve got red hair and you’re five one,” says designer Michael Kors, in Harper’s Bazaar Great Style (Aurum Press 2007).

How to Wear a Trench Coat

Pick the perfect trench coat and it goes with everything and hides all figure flaws with its cleverly cut fabric. The belt can be tied tightly (but not too tight so that it bunches around the waist) to create an hour-glass figure or belted loosely for a casual air. Tying the buckle at the back is more tacky than chic.
The Spring 2010 season’s take on the trench sees mini trenches with short hemlines that finish above the knee and cropped sleeves. For a 2010 runway look, wear a trench loose and open, with ruched up sleeves

Here are a few tips on how to make it work for you if you're petite:

A maxi dress can really swamp you up and make you look shorter and chunky, but the trick here is to choose a style that is well-cut - that means choose a full-length dress that sits more closely to your body

To avoid looking like a tent, your petite shape needs a more structured dress, so try a maxi dress with a defined waist like for example empire waist, and if you need to minimize your tummy or the preggy look of an empire waist, wrap a basic belt around the thinnest part of your waist

The best hemline dress cuts for your frame are: Straight, A-line and bias-cut

Elongate your figure with a v-neck

For some extra height, wear pumps, wedges (espadrilles with this type of dress is my fave!) or high heeled sandals

Look for maxi dresses in solid colors, espceially black, olive green, deep purple and dark brown. You can also wear light colors but it still has to be a solid to 'draw' a straight line on your frame

Avoid horizontal and large patterns.