We already know that the royal family are dedicated fans of the classic trench coat. But while everyone from Queen Camilla to Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, typically opts for a light beige option, Catherine, Princess of Wales, has made a case for this year's on-trend alternative.
On a visit to the Isle of Bute yesterday (17 September), the Princess of Wales dressed rain-ready in a chocolate brown trench coat, layered over a rollneck knit, brown jeans and a pair of boots. The entire ensemble is a masterclass in autumnal dressing – those shades of khaki and brown feel perfect for our strange, in-between weather – but if you don't fancy committing to a full-on tonal look, a chocolate brown trench is still a fantastic staple piece for autumn/winter 2026.
Kate's coat is, of course, by Burberry. It was the ideal choice for a day spent meeting fans, trying her hand at Scottish sport shinty (a bit like hockey, but with more physical contact), taking part in a beach clean and journeying about in the rain. It's a timeless waterproof style, with the brand's signature check on the inner lining. If you have the budget for Burberry, the exact coat the Princess of Wales is wearing is available to buy, and would be a fantastic investment piece at £2,090.
Long Gabardine Pembury Trench Coat
But if that feels a touch pricey, worry not. Chocolate brown is such a big colour trend this season that it's already filtered down to the high street. There are quite a few chocolate brown coats available right now, many of which we could see the royal loving. Let's run through some of our favourites...
Hobbs's Vienna trench coat has a similar check inner lining, for proper royal style. It's shower-resistant, so it's practical as well as stylish, and has an unusual twist lock clasp up top to keep the coat buttoned up when it's windy. Hobbs refers to this shade as 'chicory brown' but we think it's much more cocoa.
Nobody's Child has the Ericana trench in black, khaki or brown. It has a traditional double-breasted shape, large lapels and a tie belt to accentuate the waist. Plus, it's available in petite sizes. Handy for anyone on the shorter side.
Light Brown Double-Breasted Trench Coat
Finally, Whistles' brown funnel-neck trench coat ticks off another major trend for this season with its neckline. The coat has all the classic trench detailing you want – a double-breasted design with lovely tortoiseshell buttons, a tie at the waist and deep pockets. It's currently 20% off, so we'd advise moving fast.
