What is the Difference Between Duster and Trench Coat

The main difference between duster and trench coat is that duster coats are usually longer than trench coats. Duster coats typically reach longer below the knee while trench coats usually reach just below the knee.

Duster and trencher coats are long coats that usually reach below the knee and provide protection against the cold. A duster coat is a lightweight, full-length coat without buttons while a trench coat is a long, loose double-breasted coat with a belt.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is a Duster Coat
     – Definition, Features
2. What is a Trench Coat
     – Definition, Features
3. Similarities Between Duster and Trench Coat
     – Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Duster and Trench Coat
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Duster Coat, Trench Coat

Difference Between Duster and Trench Coat - Comparison Summary

What is a Duster Coat

A duster coat is a lightweight, full-length coat without buttons. Duster coats are a timeless staple. Original duster coats are made of light coloured canvas or linen. They were worn by horsemen to protect their clothes from trail dust; hence, the name duster coat. They had slits up the back to hip level for ease for wear on horseback. Some also had buttonable rear slits and leg straps to hold the flaps in place. Classic duster coats also have features like adjustable drawstrings, large fantail, detachable cape, and reinforced rear saddle gusset. They provided protection against the weather.

Difference Between Duster and Trench Coat

In modern fashion, however, the word duster or duster coat can refer to any full-length coat. They are fashionable outer garments worn by women. The main difference between modern dusters and other coats is their length. Although they may not reach the floor, they are at least a few inches below the knee. Moreover, they are light and loose-fitting.

What is a Trench Coat

A trench coat is a long, loose double-breasted coat with a belt. It is usually made from a waterproof material such as cotton gabardine. Since trench coats are long, they can cover almost the whole body. Some coats extend to the shin while some extend to ankles. They are worn by both men and women and can be worn for a professional or casual look.

Main Difference - Duster vs Trench Coat

Trench coats were traditionally a part of military clothing. Originally, they were double-breasted with wide lapels, ten front buttons, and pockets that close with buttons. There is a belt at the waist and straps around the wrists. Trench coats also had shoulder straps that button-close. These features are due to its military history. Furthermore, khaki was the traditional colour for trench coats. However, modern trench coats are available in different colours.  

Similarities Between Duster and Trench Coat

  • Both duster coats and trench coats are long coats that usually reach below the knee.

Difference Between Duster and Trench Coat

Definition

A duster coat is a lightweight, full-length coat without buttons while a trench coat is a long, loose double-breasted coat with a belt.

Material

Duster coats are usually made from lightweight materials than trench coats.

Opening

Duster coats are meant to be worn open while trench coats are meant to be worn closed.

Buttons, Belts and Pockets

Moreover, duster coats usually don’t have buttons, belts, and pockets while trench coats have buttons, belts, and pockets.

Length

Generally, duster coats are longer than trench coats. Duster coats are longer below the knee while trench coats usually reach just below the knee.  

Conclusion

A duster coat is a lightweight, full-length coat without buttons while a trench coat is a long, loose double-breasted coat with a belt. The main difference between duster and trench coat is their length; duster coats reach below the knee while trench coats usually reach just below the knee.

Reference:

1.“Mens Coat Guide – How to Choose the Perfect Outwear Coat.” Hockerty, 12 Feb. 2020, Available here.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Man in Black Coat Standing on Brown Field” (CC0) via Pexels
2. “1543507” (CC0) via Pxhere

About the Author: Hasa

Hasanthi is a seasoned content writer and editor with over 8 years of experience. Armed with a BA degree in English and a knack for digital marketing, she explores her passions for literature, history, culture, and food through her engaging and informative writing.

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