Shoppers at Marks & Spencer have discovered a wardrobe hero that delivers serious luxury style without the astronomical price tag. The high-street retailer's Checked Belted Longline Tailored Coat, retailing for just £90, is being celebrated for its uncanny resemblance to far more expensive trench coats from heritage brand Burberry.
A Designer Silhouette for a Fraction of the Price
The coat, which launched in December 2025, has quickly garnered attention for its smart, tailored aesthetic. While not a direct copy, it draws clear inspiration from several iconic Burberry designs, notably sharing the longline silhouette and shoulder epaulettes seen on styles like the brand's Long Cashmere Kensington Trench Coat. The key difference is the cost: where the Burberry version commands £2,990, M&S's offering is a mere £90.
Available in a broad size range from UK 6 to 24, the coat features a regular fit. Design details include a collared neckline, a row of contrasting buttons, and two practical side pockets. The matching belt cinches the waist to create a flattering, sophisticated shape that customers are lauding as 'expensive-looking'.
Versatile Wear and Rave Reviews
Fashion experts and customers alike highlight the coat's versatility. It can effortlessly transition from a casual weekend outfit, paired with jeans and a knit, to a polished office look when worn over smart trousers and a blouse. This adaptability contributes to its value-for-money proposition.
The product has earned an impressive 4.5 out of 5-star rating based on nearly two dozen reviews. One delighted customer called it "lovely, warm, stylish and comfortable," deeming it the "perfect smart coat for the winter." Another reviewer raved: "So lovely and warm and very expensive-looking. Such a classy and stylish coat. Highly recommend."
Understanding the Differences
While the style cues are similar, there are material distinctions between the high-street and luxury offerings. The M&S coat is crafted from 100% polyester, making it a durable and accessible option. In contrast, traditional Burberry trenches are famously made from gabardine, a tightly woven, often wool or cashmere-based fabric that provides a distinctive feel and waterproof quality.
A small number of reviewers noted the coat's weight, with one three-star review describing it as 'very heavy' but still praising the fit and pattern. The coat's popularity places it alongside other affordable alternatives, such as Next's £88 Chocolate Brown Formal Funnel Neck Coat and New Look's £59.99 Dark Brown Unlined Longline Belted Coat.
Ultimately, Marks & Spencer's trench coat proves that capturing the essence of timeless designer style is possible on a high-street budget, offering a savvy fashion solution for the style-conscious British shopper this season.
