As with most people the idea of Outerwear (and by this I mean coats and jackets – I’ll do a separate accessories post) never used to excite me. However I now view them not only as an essential in the Winter months but as something that can bring some excitement and fun into even the plainest wardrobe on the greyest of days.
Isabel Marant Etoile jacket (old)
The key for me is to look for coats throughout the year (preferably picking ones up in the sales as they can be quite expensive) and to look in vintage/preloved shops and outlet stores as well as the usual suspects. This way I have built up quite a collection of unique pieces that I love, rather than panic-buying things I don’t when there starts to be a chill in the air.
I think every woman should have a variety of Winter outerwear to choose from – the essentials being: a down coat (boring but practical), a warm but smart jacket/blazer, a classic smarter longline coat and a printed coat.
Here are my picks from this Season (click image for link):
Under £100
I’m pleasantly surprised how much better the High Street has become with the coats on offer. I always look at the composition and make sure they’re lined.
Under £300
This year is great for picking up some statement pieces including great colours, prints and faux-fur. I particularly love Helene Berman’s coats for Anthropologie. I’ve bought the leopard print one and am now lusting over the zebra-print.
Coat by Helene Berman for Anthropologie
Printed coats are my absolute nirvana and usually quite difficult to find. They really are surprisingly versatile and can lift your spirits on a dull day.
Under £500
For classic coats I continue to look to Reiss. I’m loving their paler coloured coats which are quite a contrast to all the dark colours most people wear in the Winter and look really chic with Winter whites.
£500 Plus
Now that there are some great coats in the lower price categories, I find it difficult to part with a lot of money unless it’s for something really unique. I love the unusual prints and shapes of some of these but will wait for the sales.
One thing’s for sure – staying warm doesn’t haven’t to be boring anymore!
My next fashion post will be on accessories.
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