Spring 2009 Trend Alert: The Updated Trench

We know that the trench has been around for quite some time now, and is typically considered to be a quite traditional piece, a staple of every wardrobe. We saw several updated versions of the classic trench on the spring 2009 runways, and couldn't wait to share our findings! We pretty much fell in love immediately with Moschino's cap-sleeved trench with ruffles - a perfect update in our humble opinion! This sleeveless trench plays into the trend of layers - or wear it as the model does, with nothing underneath!

John Rocha turned his lovely lady trench into a ball gown of sorts, with a ballooning, bubble-hemmed bottom. Vivienne Westwood Red Label delved into a new fabulous fabrication with the super shiny metallic lame-adorned trench. We also love the wider lapels, which gives the coat a decidedly '70s vibe. Thakoon Panichgul added some dark trim detailing to a pale beige trench, while Diesel did an almost Burberry-esque plaid trench and Marc by Marc Jacobs added an interesting touch of adjustability on the sleeves.

Now that we've got you all revved up about a new version of the old classic, we've pulled together some affordable options to get the look. We've spotted affordable trenches with interesting detailing, new plays on shape, and fabulous color and print combinations. (Jump for more!)

The Robert Rodriguez Metallic Grey Plaid Cropped Trench ($240, Bluefly.com), resembles the print found on the Diesel trench, while the lovely Gayle Ruffle Trench ($100, J.Crew) channels the ruffle concept found on the Moschino version.

Or, check out the Elie Tahari Khaki Cotton 'Georgina' Belted Three Quarter Sleeve Trench Coat ($150, Bluefly.com), to give a more subtle and practical play on sleeve length. If you're looking for an trench along the lines of Vivienne Westwood's metallic lame version, try this Metallic Leather Trench ($60, Newport News) for a rather bold look, or the AGB Double-Breasted Shawl Collar Trench Coat ($98, Macy's) to get the '70s coat silhouette that Ms. Westwood so perfectly executed.

You can also draw attention to your coat via this rich black Sateen Trench Coat ($69, Newport News) or go for the ultimate splurge with this cool blueHelmut Lang Silk Parachute Trench Coat ($435 NET-A-PORTER.com). If you're not looking to spend anywhere near that much, but still want something interesting in your trench, try the BCX Big-Button Trench Coat
($47, Macy's) since it has a retro Peter Pan collar and three-quarter sleeves with button tab detaling which reminds us of a Marc Jacobs trench, but for at least 75% less!

The spring 2009 runways tell us that trenches no longer need to be reserved for a rainy day, so instead wear one everyday!

-- Julia DiNardo is the founder/editor of Fashion Pulse -- visit the site for daily updates on trends, runway collections, industry buzz, beauty, and more!