IF THE grey weather is starting to get you down, one thing might make you feel a bit better: it’s now well and truly coat season.
In the world of fashion, this is arguably the best time of year. The right type of outerwear can bring drama and glamour to any outfit – it’s not just something you chuck on before leaving the house, but is a key part of your outfit and overall style.
A coat is a garment you’re likely to spend a bit more time, effort and perhaps money on, so there’s a reason many of us are keen to make a statement with our outerwear – whether it’s experimenting with bright colours (no, coats don’t have to just be black and navy), or interesting materials (faux leather is a particular favourite this season).
Here are the key coat trends of the season…
BELTED
One of this season’s major looks is all about bringing a more defined silhouette, with the help of a belt. You don’t necessarily have to buy a new coat for this look, either – give an existing one an AW20 update by looping a belt around it. One of our favourite styles was the belted puffer jacket, giving a modern and elegant update to the athletic-style coat.
:: Tu Shawl Collar Wrap-Over Belted Coat in Navy, £45
:: Dorothy Perkins Raincoat Mac in Grey, £45
LEATHER
This season's style tends to err towards straight-cut coats, with many trailing down to your knees. Just think of it as the enduring appeal of the Matrix coat – but with a more environmentally friendly spin, as many of the high-street versions use faux leather.
:: Zara Limited Edition Trench Coat in Burgundy, £89.99
:: Bon Prix Faux Leather Coat in Black, £49.99
RED
Every season, one particular colour takes precedence over all others, and this year it’s all about red. Wear it in any style you like – puffer, trench, bomber, peacoat – and you’ll be bang on trend.
:: Joe Browns The Libertine Coat in Red, £120; Check Trousers (out of stock); Wild Side Embroidered Bootees, £50
:: Pure Collection Revere Collar Coat in Red, £250
PUFFER
While the puffer style hasn’t necessarily changed that much, the way we’re wearing it has. Beforehand, you were likely to chuck on your puffer over your activewear, as you headed to the gym or out for a walk, but the AW20 catwalks made a case for a more formal context.
:: George Hooded Longline Padded Coat in Pale Grey, £38
:: H&M Short Puffer Jacket in Mustard Yellow, £34.99; Ribbed Top, £14.99; Imitation Leather Leggings, £14.99; Platform Boots, £29.99
CHECK
Few things feel more autumnal than a check pattern, and it’s swept fashion this season. The key to a good check print coat is tailoring, so lean into the heritage vibe, with a perfectly-cut jacket.
:: Zara Limited Edition Coat in Russet, £119
:: New Look Check Double Breasted Blazer Coat in Light Grey, £45.99
