The trench coat has a long and honorable history, from its introduction during World War I (worn by the Brits, natch) to the embrace of the jacket by pop culture’s most famous sleuths (the most important being, of course, Carmen Sandiego.) This season, the trench has resumed its frequent spot on the high fashion runways— styles ranged from runched pastels at Burberry to sleeveless at Celine. 

As if that weren’t enough to convince you to get your trench on, it doesn’t hurt that a classic trench coat is one of the most multipurpose pieces of outerwear you will ever own. The double-breasted cut is flattering, the traditional neutral khaki color matches everything, and the versatile style can be rocked just as well with jeans and wellies on a rainy campus day as it does with a pencil skirt and pumps for that big job interview.

So go ahead and get in the trenches— here are our favorite picks for fall.

Gap Classic Trench Coat, $88: The name says it all— this piece is the most classic version of the trench for fall, and at an affordable price too. The most versatile style on the market.

Old Navy Long Button-Front Trench Coat, $49.50: For the girl looking to spice things up with something a more colorful outerwear, Old Navy's wide selection has got you covered: this traditionally cut coat comes in black, red, navy, and emerald green.

Banana Republic Belted Plaid Trench, $198: Thin stripes elevate the traditional coat to a true fashion piece, and the blue will coordinate well with jeans.

Topshop Premium Godet Check Trench, $400: To recreate the Sherlock Holmes look and capture that British je ne sais quoi, look no further than this British mega retailer's trench with plaid flannel detail.

— By Ellie Krupnick