Trench Coats: Finding the Right Length

Jean Godfrey-June, Lucky magazine
Q: What length trench coat is the best/most appropriate? -Zelda

A: Dear Zelda,

Read More: 9 Ways to Get a Summer Glow

I always thought there was a firm rule on this subject-and perhaps there once was. I went to several fashion operatives with this question, figuring I'd eventually get the definitive word, but the truth is, there is no ideal skirt-to-trench-coat ratio. Executive fashion director Alexis Bryan Morgan's style is very feminine, even ladylike, so she was my bet for Fashion Editor Who'd Pronounce a Rule, but no: "It depends on what you're wearing," she said. "It's not that you shouldn't consider it when you're getting dressed, though-a little skirt peeking out is almost always cute, and if the two lengths match exactly, it's great, but something super-short with something super-long could either be awful or really cute."

Read more: 8Outfits Men Love on Women

The problem of looking like a flasher (when the skirt is shorter than the coat) is not such a problem for some sexy people; for others, Alexis recommends just leaving the coat open. "Leaving it open and loosely belted or not-at-all belted solves a lot of weird-proportion problems. But in the end, it's trial and error. Trust your eye." Or if all else fails, loosen your belt.

Cotton trench, $128, gap.com. Silk dress, $515, Orla Kiely, orlakiely.com. Patent leather pumps, $99, Circa Joan & David, macys.com


More from Lucky magazine:
5 Drastic Ways to Change Up Your Look
15 Secrets from Top Dermatologists
Best Dresses For Your Body
The 40 Best Drugstore Beauty Products