Every fall, I reach for my long trench coat on autopilot, and every fall, it does exactly what it’s supposed to do. But this year, I keep noticing the most stylish women I know have quietly swapped theirs for something shorter. The cropped trench hits right at the hip, which means you can actually see your jeans, boots, and bag. I instantly knew I had to try it for myself.

To be clear, your classic trench is still a staple, and you should keep wearing it. However, at this moment I’m pressing pause on buying another one so I can put that money toward the cropped version, which feels like a modern upgrade. Below, see how the chicest women are styling cropped trench coats and shop my favorite picks at every price point.

How to Style It

If you’re looking for off-duty energy, this is the look to start with. It’s the kind of outfit I’d wear to run errands and end my day with a spritz and a friend.

Here’s proof that a trench doesn’t have to feel sweet. This one is cool and a little mysterious and has major “main character leaving the party” vibes.

This feels like a Saturday with nowhere to be. It’s relaxed and a little undone in the best way, like she just tossed it on and walked out the door.

This is the outfit I’d wear to a gallery opening and then straight to dinner without thinking twice. It’s crisp, a little sporty, and polished without feeling stiff.

Fun, flirty, and very ready for a night out—this is a look I styled that takes the most classic piece in your closet and makes it feel playful again.