April showers bring May flowers and fashionable outerwear. Plastic pieces stood out on the spring '18 runways, but honestly, I'm sweating thinking about wearing a clear plastic hat or boots (see Chanel). What is the point of repelling rain if the fabric will just create moisture on the inside? On a more positive note, trench coats are actually really cute and underrated (and a wardrobe staple as many would say). You do not see many trench coats out on the streets if it is raining, more North Face rain jackets for that matter, but any time I do see a good trench coat, the trench-wearer looks mysteriously chic and put together.
Aside from the plastic, trench coat reinventions on the runways caught my eye from bright colors to extra shiny to unconventional trench coat fabrics. Chanel even designed a collection with all models sporting chic af rain gear. But how much of this is actually practical or just strictly for the ~fashun~?
For transitional weather, trench coats are warm enough for the windy weather but light enough so you don't get too hot. I took the challenge of styling the springtime classic in some new mediums. Think of it as "rain gear", but not quite. These looks convey the spirit of spring mixed with some fashion impracticality.
Plaid Trench
The first look features an extra large and extra belted plaid trench. To cover up humidity-frizzed hair, I kept it under control with a turban headband from What What Wear Collection for Target. Now, here comes the impracticality: white ugly sneakers and red tights. To be fair, I have actually worn these shoes in wet weather and they have kept me somewhat dry. My only fear with white sneakers is ruining them in a mud puddle. But is that considered a fashion risk?
Collarless and Statement Sleeve
Okay, so this one looks waterproof, but trust me it is not. This is one of those coats that is made to look functional, but only for the fashion. Do you know what I mean? Like the Balenciaga platform crocs. Topped off with a bucket hat and vintage floral, I look springtime rain ready.
Denim
I love this jacket so much. So different. So cool. I will probably get a lot of strange looks wearing it, but who cares. As a denim queen, I get butterflies thinking of being covered in full denim. But it also makes me question: is it a coat or is it just a jacket that is being ~extra~? It is heavy, but not warm enough to survive a North Idaho winter. It would need some jacket layering (which is actually on trend), in order to provide sufficient warmth. As a rain jacket, this would probably be one of the worst choices. Imagine getting caught in the rain and having to be soaking wet carrying a heavy (yet cool) denim trench on your back. But as the title of this article states, "impractical" looks for springtime rain, maybe just make sure you save it for the misty days along with an umbrella. Here, I just wore it as a dress with my boyfriend's thrifted turtleneck layered underneath.
Check out some more "April Showers" inspo on the runway!
