If you were in New York this past week, the very confusing weather probably caught you off guard. The nearly 80-degree temperatures mid-afternoon called for tank tops, with a massive 30-degree drop happening just a few hours later. And, had it not been for my husband’s insistence that I layer up (because, “It’s going to be way colder later!”), I probably would have been very ill-prepared for our dinner date, which we departed for while it was still pretty warm out, but returned back home from once it was, well, freezing. 

Let’s rewind: Finding a proper coat for this very temperamental weather isn’t an easy feat. Nay, finding a proper coat that’s also stylish might seem impossible, but I currently have a new outerwear obsession that Jennifer Garner just wore, too. So naturally, I have to wax poetic about it now. It’s the coat I threw on this past weekend, and it’s the coat I’ve been wearing pretty much nonstop since I got it. Said coat? A lovely cropped trench that I officially prefer over my long trench coats. Sorry not sorry to those, but for now, the itty-bitty version of this inherently rich-looking topper has a front-row seat.

Editor-Approved Cropped Trench Coats for Spring

Garner wore her cropped black trench in a very relatable way; in fact, it’s one reason I love it so. She styled her double-breasted style with coordinating black jeans and sleek black boots. But, instead of leaving it open, she buttoned it up and tied the waist belt for a flattering touch, so rather than looking like a jacket-jacket, it slyly passed as a shirt (even though she also wore a black top underneath). Chic! 

While I love a long trench and the French It Girl vibes one oozes, I’m all on on the cropped version right now because it’s a bit more laidback and, in my opinion, oozes that coveted I-tried-today-but-not-too-much type of vibe. Plus, I love that the shorter, boxier silhouette adds to your outfit rather than covering it up (which can be the case with a longline trench), so you can have much more fun with styling it. 

Check out some cropped trenches I”m currently considering making mine. Hey, I might just add all these to my rotation because I’m #indecisive.

BCBG Max Azria Double-Breasted Crop Trench Coat

This option doesn’t have a traditional belted waist, but where it does bring in the coveted cinched-in detailing is on the sleeves—a fun, fresh upgrade, IMO. The roomy pockets offer a functional element, while the oversized, cropped silhouette makes it ideal for layering on top of sweaters or tee alike.

Joe’s the Liz Cropped Trench Coat

Anything Joe’s makes has my full attention, so it’s no surprise that I’m obsessed with this cropped trench from the brand. The waistbelt offers styling versatility while the exaggerated notch collar offers some welcomed drama to an otherwise classic piece.   

Favorite Daughter’s the Cropped Charles Trench

I think I just found my next cropped trench purchase; this one from Favorite Daughter’s looks so luxe. This is thanks to the fact that it’s designed from a lightweight suiting blend and has a slightly boxy silhouette and removable waist belt.

Shop some more cropped trench coats, below.

Avec Les Filles Belted Trench Jacket

Oak + Fort Cropped Flowy Tencel Trench Coat

Mango Double-Breasted Cropped Trench Coat

By Anthropologie Cropped Trench Coat

Gap Asymmetrical Trench Jacket