It’s a boy-girl thing
Get ready to channel your inner boy; androgyny is one of the biggest outerwear looks of the season. Mannish coats were seen in droves on the A/W runways at Chanel and Stella McCartney.
The idea here is to wear a coat that looks like it could belong to your other half. Just make sure it hangs well on your shoulders.
A great bonus to androgynous coats is that, being on the roomy side, they’re ideal for layering. French Connection has gone to town with this trend with a great selection of man-inspired outerwear.
Lady in red
Not one for shrinking violets, a bold red coat is a great way to make a statement with your outerwear.
Whether it’s bright tomato or deep claret, the thing about the colour red is that it adds an instant dose of drama to any outfit - making it an ideal purchase for those who are a little more reserved with their other style choices. Throwing a scarlet coat over the plainest of outfits equals instant chic. Make like Little Red Hiding Hood in a red cape from Boutique by Jaeger.
Revel in retro
Retro style was big news on the catwalks for A/W 2011. The only dilemma is the decade you choose. The clean lines and bold colours of the Sixties make for ideal outerwear; Zara have gone big on this trend with an impressive array of catwalk-inspired coats.
Miu Miu showcased a collection of modern vintage featuring Forties bold shoulders and nipped in waists. Splash out on a coat from the bright feminine collection for ultimate fashion kudos.
Fake it in fur
No need to upset animal activists, and risk a paint shower a la Samantha in Sex And The City... Get the fur look by going faux. A shaggy fur coat is the instant way to ramp up the glamour factor, and works equally well for day or night.
This season, look out for Seventies-inspired furs in jewel tone colours. Roksanda Ilincic has created a particularly covetable dark violet number for her collection at Debenhams.
Heritage heaven
Turn to the royals and County Life magazine for inspiration with this English heritage trend. Look out for coats made from tweeds, tartans and plaids, as seen at Celine and Balenciaga.
This is a great choice for the more conservative dresser but can equally be given a more modern urban twist with killer accessories - leave the wellies at home. Try Next for a good selection of affordable English countryside inspired outerwear.
Classic camel
For a coat with staying power look out for classic camel styles. A winter coat should be an investment piece and, chosen carefully, camel will surpass the faddy trends for years to come. Camel coats are not only timeless but exude elegance; whether it’s a Burberry-inspired Mac, plush wool number or fashion-forward cape. Mint Velvet at House of Fraser has some great high-fashion inspired options.
