Forget the Inspector Clouseau look… Burberry is rethinking beige trench coats, and you should too!

Do you notice that you are now a little too warm when you put on your trusty puffer or teddy coat, but you still can't brave the elements, armed with just a jacket? Then it's official: it's trench coat weather.

There is no coat more quintessentially British than a trench. The perfect layer for days when the weather forecast seems temperamental. An elegant trench coat can be put on to avoid any fashion crisis.

When it comes to design, no one does it better than British fashion house Burberry. The iconic diamond-lined trenches are as attractive today as they were when they were first launched in 1912.

But while the term “trench coat” immediately conjures up an image of a beige, Inspector Clouseau style, they have undergone an evolution of late.

Since Daniel Lee took over as creative director at Burberry last year, we've seen the trench coat in different colors and prints, while the silhouettes are more relaxed, with details like dropped waists and oversized belts.

Trench, £175, anthropologie.com; dress, £250, jigsaw-online.com; heels, £205, bobbies.com; bag, £445, demellierlondon.com

Now the High Street is also buzzing with new colourways, fabrics and details.

Cherry red is proving to be a trend color for 2024, so you'll definitely stand out for all the right reasons in Karen Millen's belted coat (£165).

The strong shoulders and balloon sleeves create a statement look, while the belt allows the waist to be cinched for a chic silhouette. Combine with black boots and let the coat take center stage.

The Anthropologie Trench (£175) is the perfect grown-up alternative to a denim jacket. Don't be afraid to double it up and wear it over jeans and a top for a casual yet sleek outfit, or over your favorite midi dress.

Do you want a high fashion look at a High Street price? New Look's grey-blue trench coat (above left) costs just £59.99.

If you're looking for an updated trench coat but prefer a subtle shade to a bold colour, Jigsaw's patent leather style (£399) is a great option. The oversized look, epaulettes and belt design create a structured yet flattering shape.

So whether you go for colorful chic or keep it classic, with a reliable trench coat you can face spring in style.

Trench coat, £59.99, newlook.com; shirt, £29.99, and skirt, £49.99, zara.com; boots, £149.99, johnlewis.com

Scarf, £150, aspinaloflondon.com; trench, £399, jigsaw-online.com; gloves, £205, mulberry.com

Gully, £149, johnlewis.com; blazer, £165, and skirt, £99, aligne.co; turtleneck, £94, varley.com; shoes, £32, and bag, £32, next.co.uk; ring, £17.99, zara.com