When the cold weather arrives, there’s little we get more excited about than outerwear. A true lynchpin of winter dressing, select right and a great coat will become the hardest-working garment in your wardrobe. When looking around, it’s essential to think long-term and shop smart. The key is to find a style that will work seamlessly with various outfits and suit a range of occasions. Selecting high-quality fabric will pay dividends in comfort, breathability and longevity. Look for pure blends—not only is this better for the environment but the finish will be much more luxurious. If you are selecting a style that isn’t a natural fibre, try to ensure it uses recycled material. When it comes to cut and pattern, steer clear of fleeting trends and think about what shapes return each season. If you want more of a statement design, seek out a standout coat that retains a classic appeal like a leopard or check style. Following the autumn/winter 2024 shows, the new season is awash with incredible options to choose from. Countrycore reigned supreme at JW Anderson, Chloé and Brandon Maxwell with waxed, tweed and herringbone coats. Both Mugler and Stella McCartney made a solid case for power dressing with oversized silhouettes and Balenciaga and Loewe played with a range of different fabrics. When it comes to the designers to invest in, the choice is all yours. Max Mara reigns supreme in the wool department with sumptuous designs that hang perfectly on the body but Fillipa K, Toteme and The Row are serious contenders too. For leather, look to the buttery soft creations of Khaite and Gucci and for classic trenches, you will never look back after investing in a Burberry design. For those looking to the high street, Arket, Whistles and Cos’ collections are brimming with chic options too. To help you in your quest for the best winter coat, we’ve rounded up the outerwear styles to shop for 2024. Which will you go for? The Checked Coat View this post on Instagram A post shared by WOOLRICH OUTDOOR LABEL (@woolrich.outdoorlabel) A pattern with a storied history, check has repeatedly made its way back to the forefront of fashion, and this season, it is everywhere. Despite being visually graphic, its comeback power can perhaps be credited to the fact that it’s a neutral of sorts—a pattern that can stand out or blend in depending on how you style it, whilst also adding interest to an ensemble. Bright or muted, it's the perfect addition to a casual outfit. The Wool Coat View this post on Instagram A post shared by Stella McCartney (@stellamccartney) A great wool coat is a timeless wardrobe staple. Whether worn over denim or layered over evening wear, the enduring appeal of wool outerwear is its ability to smarten up almost any outfit. From longline, belted styles to the classic double-breasted peacoat, a wool coat will always add a polished finishing touch, but it will also see you through autumn and chilly winters, when wrapping up in style is essential. Wool coats were all over the AW24 catwalks in all kinds of cuts. From pea coats to overcoats and duster coats—they'll keep you cosy all winter long. See more here. The Trench Coat View this post on Instagram A post shared by JW ANDERSON (@jw_anderson) Versatile, practical and lightweight enough to layer, the best trench coats are so much more than transitional heroes: they’ll see you through almost every situation, in any season. And given how temperamental the UK weather is right now, there's no better item to invest in. This season, there are various takes on the style. From cropped to extended; patterned to plain—it's the perfect item to throw on during drizzly days. The Camel Coat View this post on Instagram A post shared by Max Mara (@maxmara) We don't need to tell you that the camel coat will never date. Whereas navy and black coats are elegant in an understated manner, biscuity beige and warm caramel shades will always spell out luxury (in the quietest of ways, of course). Trends come and go but a camel coat never goes out of style. Due to the lighter tones of the colour, it's essential to assess the quality of the fabric—the design can prove to be the most luxurious item in your wardrobe if you choose wisely. Shop more here. The Black Coat View this post on Instagram A post shared by FFORME (@fforme) A classic black coat is style failsafe for when you want to smarten up a look with minimum effort. The cornerstone of any winter wardrobe, a black coat will also go with anything in your existing closet, making it a highly versatile investment, but if you want to stand out, look for variations on silhouette, cut and fabric. From duffle coats to puffer jackets, capes to overcoats, this season there are so many different designs to pick from. See more here. The Shearling Coat View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marlies Pia Pfeifhofer (@marlies.pia) A shearling coat is a quintessential cold-weather design. Its enduring appeal can perhaps be attributed to the fact that it manages to be many things at once. It’s cosy yet glamorous; it has an effortless feel yet makes a statement and it’s as suitable for those who are into fashion as they are function. A true high-low item, it’s little surprise that both the high street and fashion houses have recently released spins on the classic design. Prepare to add a luxurious edge to a casual outfit with one of the new season styles. The Leather Coat View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tine Andrea Lauvli (@tineandreaa) The love affair with Nineties nostalgia is showing no signs of slowing—and the long leather coat has been trending for more than a few seasons now. A little like denim, leather is a material that will always be classic and instantly adds texture to any look. Admittedly, the full-length style of a leather coat as opposed to a cropped leather jacket can feel intimidating but it’s an item that's easier to incorporate into your existing wardrobe than you might think. The key is picking a style that complements your current clothing collection and one that you’ll love long after winter turns to spring. The Leather Jacket View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hailey Rhode Baldwin Bieber (@haileybieber) One of the most iconic pieces in fashion history, the leather jacket may have roots in military pragmatism, but it’s the pop-culture moments that have cemented its position as a timeless wardrobe hero. From bombers to bikers, a leather jacket is an excellent piece for elevating your look. Pair with jeans and a fine knit on the weekend or throw on over a printed dress for an evening out. The Cream Coat View this post on Instagram A post shared by Olivia Frances Culpo (@oliviaculpo) There is something so elegant about a cream coat—the ultimate Quiet Luxury item, we love wool, cashmere or alpaca styles. If you're after something for the office, we recommend choosing something fitted, but for the evening, an oversized dressing-gown coat is just the ticket. Of course, a more casual duffel also looks great in the hue. The Printed Coat Purchasing an investment piece doesn't mean forgoing fun and flare. The key is selecting a print or pattern that returns season after season or opting for a design that draws on heritage pieces. For us, leopard-print coats will never go out of style, while a subtle checked, floral and baroque make just enough of a statement without overpowering your look. Lead image credit: Getty Images Also read: This brand we grew up with got a major makeover, and other labels should take note Also read: Fashion month 2024 is officially over—and these are the top trends for the coming year
