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How to Tie a Trench Coat Belt, Even Behind the Back

Perhaps one of our favorite wardrobe staples, the trench coat is both practical and stylish—the little black dress of outerwear. Not only does it radiate polished sophistication and It-Brit cool, but it also offers protection from the elements without stifling or overheating. Its only downside? Figuring out what to do with that awkward belt.

Instead of giving it the double knot or abandoning it altogether (as in, stuffing it in our pockets or just letting it hang), we took it upon ourselves to seek out how to tie it in the chicest way possible—front and back.

Below, check out our easy-to-follow GIF tutorials (complete with step-by-step tips) and learn how to knot a trench like a pro.

How to Tie a Trench Coat

The Front

If you're worried that you won't be able to get this, don't. We haven't gotten fancy with the knot in the front of the trench coat. It's almost like tying your shoelaces.

Sarah Balch for InStyle.com
  • Pull the side of the belt without the buckle a bit longer and cross over the side with the buckle.
  • Draw the long strap under and up to cinch. Let it hang.
  • Loop the strap (sans buckle) under the other and pull horizontally.
  • Pull the strap without the buckle away from the body and through the loop.

    • The Back

    As you can tell from the GIF below, this knot does get a bit more complicated, especially if you have to do it behind your back. If you're not confident you can do it, consider setting the coat on a hanger and trying the knot that way.

    Sarah Balch for InStyle.com
  • Cross the side of the belt without the buckle under the other side.
  • Wrap the strap with the buckle over the other and pull horizontally.
  • Pull the strap with the buckle under and through the circle you've created.
  • Pull the strap with the buckle through the loop.
  • Tighten the knot and let it hang.

    • Looking to style a scarf with your trench? Find 18 different ways to knot a scarf. You'll be set for whatever look you're looking for.

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