Autumn/Winter is my favourite time of year to get dressed; I love the opportunity to personalise my outfits with layers, cosy hats and scarves or a fabulous coat. Coats are naturally going to form a large part of our day-to-day wardrobe during the colder months and my feeling is that the four styles I mention below should cover you for pretty much every eventuality. Fashion definitely needs to be functional (goosebumps are not so chic!) BUT I’m a true believer that you can look fabulous AND be warm and cosy too. 
Here are the coat styles I recommend every woman should own for Autumn/Winter…

The Classic Camel

A classic camel coat will never go out of fashion and once again this season the high street is awash with varying shades and styles to choose from. For me, a camel coat is the ideal dress up/dress down piece of outerwear for this time of year. I would wear mine in the evenings over a long dress and boots or during the day with jeans, trainers and a hoody for a more relaxed feel. 

Reiss

Personally I love the longer styles as they feel more elegant and this Reiss Wool Blend Overcoat is just divine. There are lots to choose from at the moment and I would recommend checking out Marks & Spencer, Topshop and Zara for some great options at fantastic prices. 

Leather Love

I mentioned a leather biker jacket as being an Autumn essential in my last post here so I absolutely had to include one in this round-up. I do generally size up a little with leather biker jackets as I like to be able to wear chunky knits underneath them in the Winter. They also work beautifully with jeans or over dresses making them a worthwhile investment that will be worn for years. 

Again, consider a colour other than black and if lots of zips and buckles aren’t your thing there are plenty of more understated styles you can choose from like this cropped biker jacket from Karen Millen. 

Karen Millen

School Run Mum

I have a 7 and a 4 year old so a practical coat is something of a necessity for me! Even if you’re not required to brave the school run gauntlet on a daily basis, a ‘four wheel drive’ coat is essential if you want to be able to brave the elements (whatever the weather).

Look for insulated/quilted, waterproof (not just shower-proof!) styles that come down past your hips for maximum warmth. There are many cocoon styles out there which are great but if you don’t want to look too bulky try a style that has some subtle waist definition or a belt. The addition of some faux fur around the hood makes this more practical style feel a little more glam too. 

I would also encourage you to opt for a colour other than black! Deep reds and forest greens are just as versatile and are generally a more flattering shade to wear next to the face too.

Kimberly Walsh’s collection for Regatta Outdoors is the perfect blend of style and substance, I particularly love this Long Length Waterproof jacket in Opal Blue.

Regetta

Statement Style

Having timeless styles in your wardrobe that can be worn in a multitude of ways is a must BUT that shouldn’t mean there isn’t room for something that’s a little fun too.

Your style should be a form of self expression and having a few items in your wardrobe that are real ‘hero’ pieces; things that make a statement or are just a bit outside of your usual go-to style, will keep things fresh and ensure you have variety within your wardrobe.  

For example, I have a bright blue cocoon coat that I just love - it makes me feel SO happy when I wear it and instantly elevates a more neutral, understated outfit. Both the bold colour and the oversized shape are a break from the norm for me and I find that refreshing. 

Sometimes we have to follow our instincts and buy something purely because we love it and it’s just that little bit crazy!