Lululemon Raw Linen vs. Trench: What's the difference?

The Lululemon Raw Linen collection and the Lululemon Trench offer two distinct approaches to outerwear, centered on fabric and function. Raw Linen pieces embody a relaxed, natural aesthetic with breathable, lightweight linen ideal for warm, dry days. In contrast, the Trench is a classic, structured coat made from technical, weather-resistant materials designed to protect you from wind and rain.

Here’s a clear comparison to help you decide which Lululemon outerwear style fits your needs.

Lululemon Raw Linen Collection

The Raw Linen collection features lightweight outerwear like blazers, shirts, and jackets designed with a relaxed, effortless feel. These pieces champion the natural texture and breathability of linen, making them perfect for layering in spring and summer or for wear in warmer climates. They offer a refined yet casual look that bridges the gap between polished style and everyday comfort.

• What it is: A line of outerwear made from natural linen for a stylish, breathable layer in warm weather.
• Key features: Natural linen fabric, airy feel, slightly textured appearance, and versatile styling suitable for casual outings.
• Price: Approximately $128 to $198.
• Materials/Construction: Crafted from natural linen, sometimes in a blend to help reduce wrinkling while maintaining its characteristic lightweight quality.
• Sizing/Fit: Designed for a relaxed, sometimes slightly oversized fit that's easy to layer over tops and dresses. Sizing typically runs true to size for its intended fit.
• Pros: Extremely breathable and comfortable in heat. Made from a natural, sustainable fiber. Effortlessly stylish for a casual, put-together look. Lightweight and easy to pack.
• Cons: Offers no protection from rain or wind. Linen is naturally prone to wrinkling. Not structured enough for formal or professional settings.

This collection suits anyone who values natural fibers and needs a light, airy layer for dry transitional weather or an extra piece for travel in warm climates.

Shop this style: shop.lululemon.com/search?Ntt=raw+linen

Lululemon Trench Coat

The Lululemon Trench is a modern, functional update to a timeless outerwear classic. Made with technical, weather-resistant fabrics, it’s built for commuters, travelers, and anyone navigating unpredictable transitional weather. Lululemon's version maintains the polished silhouette of a traditional trench coat but adds performance features like water-repellency, breathability, and thoughtful details like zippered pockets and adjustable components.

• What it is: A sleek, weather-resistant trench coat made from technical fabrics for everyday performance.
• Key features: Water-resistant or water-repellent finish, lightweight yet durable fabric, adjustable features like a waist belt and sleeve tabs, clean lines, and a modern fit.
• Price: Ranges from $228 to $298.
• Materials/Construction: Typically made from a nylon or polyester blend with a DWR (durable water repellent) coating that encourages water to bead up and roll off.
• Sizing/Fit: A more structured and fitted silhouette than the linen pieces, though designed with enough room to layer over sweaters. Adjustable features allow for a more personalized fit.
• Pros: Protects against rain and wind. Highly versatile and can be dressed up or down. Classic, timeless design with a modern Lululemon fit. Durable and built for frequent wear.
• Cons: Higher price point. Less breathable than natural linen, which can feel warm on a sunny day. The technical fabric lacks the soft, natural feel of linen.

This piece is an ideal investment for those who need a reliable, stylish, and versatile coat for commuting, travel, and everyday life in climates with rain and wind.

Shop this style: shop.lululemon.com/search?Ntt=trench

Lululemon Raw Linen vs. Trench Coat Comparison

Style & Aesthetic

The core difference between these two collections lies in their aesthetic. The Raw Linen pieces are all about a relaxed, natural vibe. The slightly textured look of the fabric creates an effortless, almost bohemian feel that's perfect for casual weekends, brunches, or travel to sunny destinations. It communicates comfort and an appreciation for natural materials.

The Trench coat, in keeping with its heritage, offers a polished and structured silhouette. Its clean lines and minimalist design provide a more classic and put-together appearance suitable for the office, city commutes, and evening outings. It’s the more formal and versatile of the two, slotting easily into a professional or smart-casual wardrobe.

Materials & Weather Resistance

This is the most critical functional difference. Lululemon’s Raw Linen is made from a natural plant fiber prized for its exceptional breathability. It's designed to keep you cool and comfortable in warm conditions but offers no defense against rain or strong wind.

The Trench, by contrast, is engineered for weather. Made from technical synthetic fabrics like nylon and coated with a DWR finish, its primary job is to shield you from the elements. This makes it a practical choice for spring showers, windy fall days, and unpredictable travel weather, whereas the linen pieces are strictly for fair-weather use.

Price & Value

The Raw Linen collection sits at a more accessible price point, generally between $128 and $198. It offers good value as a stylish, seasonal fashion piece made from high-quality natural fiber.

At $228 to $298, the Trench coat represents a more considerable investment. Its value lies in its functionality, durability, and timelessness. As a piece of performance outerwear you might wear for years across multiple seasons, its higher price reflects its technical construction and ability to serve a practical purpose beyond just style.

Best Use Cases & Versatility

Your choice depends heavily on your climate and lifestyle. Raw Linen is best for warm and dry environments. It's the perfect light jacket to throw over a dress on a summer evening, wear inside an office with strong air conditioning, or pack for a beach vacation.

The Trench coat is the quintessential transitional piece for anyone living in a four-season climate. Its versatility comes from its ability to handle anything from a cool morning commute to an unexpected downpour. It is functional for daily wear during spring and fall and easily layers for different temperature needs, making it a true wardrobe workhorse.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both options serve different needs, so the right choice comes down to your priorities in style, function, and climate.

Choose the Lululemon Raw Linen Collection if:

• You prioritize breathability and the feel of natural fibers.
• Your style is relaxed, casual, and comfort-focused.
• You live in a warm, mostly dry climate.
• You need a light, fashionable layer for summer evenings or vacation travel.

Choose the Lululemon Trench Coat if:

• You need reliable protection from wind and rain.
• Your style is more classic, polished, and structured.
• You want a versatile investment piece for commuting, work, and travel in transitional weather.
• Function and durability are more important to you than a natural fabric feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Lululemon's Raw Linen and Trench?

The main difference is the material and purpose. Raw Linen is a natural, breathable fabric designed for warm-weather style and comfort, while the Trench is made from a technical, water-resistant fabric engineered for protection from rain and wind.

Which one is better for rain?

The Lululemon Trench coat is absolutely the better choice for rain. Its water-repellent finish is designed to keep you dry, whereas linen absorbs moisture and provides no protection from wet weather.

Does Lululemon Raw Linen wrinkle easily?

Pure linen is famous for wrinkling. Lululemon often uses linen blends or treatments to help minimize wrinkles, but you should still expect some natural texture. Embracing the relaxed, slightly rumpled look is part of linen's charm.

Are these coats true to size?

Generally, yes, but for different fits. Pieces from the Raw Linen collection are designed for a relaxed, sometimes intentionally oversized fit. The Trench coat is more structured and true to size, with enough room to wear over a light sweater.

Can I wear the Lululemon Trench in winter?

The trench coat is not insulated and is intended as a shell for transitional weather like spring and fall. You could layer it over warm clothing in early winter, but it is not a proper winter coat designed for very cold temperatures.

Which one is more versatile?

This depends on your definition. The Trench is more versatile across different weather conditions and occasions (casual to professional). The Raw Linen pieces are versatile in styling for warm weather - they can be worn as a top layer over dresses, tanks, or swimwear.

How do I care for each garment?

Always check the care tag. Generally, linen can be machine washed on a delicate cycle with cold water and hung to dry. A trench coat with a DWR finish may require special care to preserve its water-repellency - often a simple machine wash without fabric softener is sufficient, followed by a low tumble dry to reactivate the coating.

Which style is more timeless?

The trench coat is a historically timeless silhouette that has been a fashion cornerstone for decades. While linen is also classic, specific styles in the Raw Linen collection may be more trend-driven season to season.