What coat will suit you? How and where to buy the best winter coat
As a London-based Personal Stylist, it's officially time to talk about which winter coat you NEED to have in your wardrobe and where to find it. Finding THE perfect winter coat can feel like finding a needle in a haystack but don't worry… I got you!
My Personal Shopping appointments in London means I am in the shops all the time trying on new styles and regularly shopping online sourcing the best winter coats for you all. I've managed to whittle down my favourite high street and high end coats and who they will suit to bring you cosy coat inspo.
There are SO many options and so many new styles that come out each week, its overwhelming, you start to overthink and then think ‘sod it’ and can't face buying a new coat so stick with your old faithful that actually doesn't bring you any joy and you feel flat and uninspired each time you wear it and kick yourself for not getting a new one. Sound familiar?
What to consider when buying your coat.
Be prepared to part with a little more money than a usual purchase. You will wear it every day and it will last you a couple of winters at least so think of the cost per wear aka #girlmath
Make sure you consider your lifestyle - if you are on the tube a lot or have children I suggest avoiding cream.white! And make sure you can run around it if you need to!
Make sure the seams of the coat sit on the end of your shoulder perfectly. If they drop or fall below your shoulder they will broaden your shoulders and have excess fabric that doesn't sit flat on your shoulder and look ill-fitting.
Choose a deep lapel - this means a deep v-neck like a blazer. It's the most flattering cut for most body shapes. It also means you can style it with lots of different scarves to change the look of your coat each day = versatility.
If you have a much smaller waist compared to your hips, opt for a belted coat to cinch in that amazing waist of yours. You need to follow the soft shape that your body has with a waisted coat.
If you have a straighter frame, or you are tall, choose a straight-cut coat that mirrors the angles of your body. This will avoid adding bulk to your middle.
Try to avoid a coat that sits below your hipline and on top of your thumb when you have your arms down. The horizontal hemline will create width on our hips which is our widest part. We want to wear coats that fall above our hipline or below our thumb for a flattering length. I suggest longer is better for warmth and versatility!
If you can afford to, choose a natural fabric like wool, natural fibres keep the warmth in, unlike man-made fabrics like polyester. Natural fibres are more breathable, softer, Hypoallergenic, more durable and far more sustainable too.
If you have the budget I suggest getting one neutral coat and one in a colour or pattern.
Neutrals include Black, navy, grey, ivory and browns like camels.
If your budget has room for one coat I recommend choosing a neutral coat that works with everything and then you can change the look with a cosy scarf/hats/gloves.
If you're unsure of what colour to get, I recommend having a colour analysis session so that you know the best colours and neutrals that work with your skin tone. It also rules out lots of decision-making when shopping as you can avoid the colours that don't work for you.
If the coat is trend lead rather than classic - make sure you imagine wearing it over a few years or sleep on the decision. If you are someone who gets bored easily - I suggest going classic so you don't buy a new coat each year. To keep your boredom at bay you can change the belt/buttons each season!
Make sure you have enough room in the arms and across your back to wear your fave jumper for layering
If you have a gilet I suggest wearing that underneath for extra warmth when it's truly rotten outside.
Make the most of sales - you can get a better quality coat for the budget you have in mind.
Finally, try on at least 5 so you know that when you find the one… it's the perfect coat for you!
My top 10 winter coats from High Street to High end
Here you can find a link to my shoppable mood board of all of my top-rated winter coats. All coats below are linked in the photos too.
Max & Co
As a London based personal stylist, I am constantly upping my game in terms of brands that I recommend and Max & Co have been about for years - they are part of the Max Mara family without the price tag - and I'm gutted I only just discovered how amazing they are this season! Their cuts, colours and lengths are perfection and will last you for years to come.
This coat works for those of you with a bust, small waist and even if you are petite!
Essentiel Antwerp
For all of my personal styling clients with a creative style personality! This amazing brand is all about the special details, uniqueness and shouts of winter fun. This particular cost is for you taller ladies with a straighter cut frame BUT fear not if that's not you - they have many more incredible options online for all body shapes. Plus it's super fun to browse.
Sizes tend to be oversized so if you are plus size it's worth checking out for a fabulous winter coat.
If you are unsure of your style personality check out my style personality blog here to discover yours.
Zara
Obvs I can't miss out on the powerhouse of zara. Don't bother sifting through their annoying website, this is the best one on their site!
The shape is perfect for pretty much anyone as it fits shoulders, goes in at the waist and is a wonderful neutral. Plus it's a tad longer so will keep more of your body warm! Particularly for you taller gals’
Never Fully Dressed
NFD has become a firm high street fave of mine this year. Its amazing extended sizing makes it perfect for everyone too. Fun prints (obvs not this one) , amazing use of colour, brilliant cut shapes and fantastic price points. They also have a points scheme which saves you money as you spend. It's like your boots are on fire.
This coat is for my spring queens! It'll work with pretty much any bust size and body shape too. If you ever struggle with dressing for your bust - check out a recent blog I have written on how to dress for your bust size here.
Sezane
Sezane is another brand in my top 5. Classic french styles with twists of unique details and personality. The brand that keeps on giving.
I feel like I don't even need to talk about how amazing this coat is - if i didn't already own a leopard print coat i'd have bought it instantly. This is oversized which can be tricky for petite frames. Best for taller ladies again and my advice is to size down. For petite gals’ make sure you check out their other coats online - you will be drooling with plenty of options.
Anthroplogie
You all know how much I adore Athro, if you are sick of looking at coats - check out their homewear to take a 5 min break - you won't regret it!
It's very rare to find a yellow coat. Generally yellow tends to be the least favourite colour to wear when I am working with my personal styling clients. However, think of it like a slither of sunshine this winter - it's the happiest colour of them all!
Again this coat is best for straight cut body shapes but you shouldn't have any issues with fit if you are tall and busty too!
Reformation
For my petite ladies! Reformation knows how to cater to you and this coat is no exception. A classic houndstooth fabric that will work with any colour and work with any printed outfit underneath.
One for my natural style personality clients. Dress it up, down and even wear it on your sunday strolls.
Massimo Dutti
Confession… I sometimes love Massimo and sometimes find it super dull… however this season they have DELIVERED with thor coat selections. This wool trench is an all rounder that is likely to suit pretty much everyone because of the clever shaping and heavy fabric that will hang beautifully. A real classic style for you classic girlies too.
All Saints
All Saints is my go to for leather jackets… if you don't own one check out their selection immediately.
This practical coat is reversible so essentially 2 coats for the price of 1 - again girlmath applies here. The metallic gives you a super cool edgy look when rushing about and the black does what a black coat does - practical and reliable. It won't be the most flattering as it's slightly boxy but if you wear it with your athleisure and hold a coffee in your hand.. No one will realise as it's so COOL. Plus there's loads of room for extra warm layers on super chilly days.
Reiss
My last brand for my go to for coats is Reiss… simple, elegant, chic and yet colourful… dare I say anymore! In the perfect wrap style this is perfect for you ladies with small waists. This will also work with a bust and if you are a straighter shape, instead of tying the front, wear it open (when warm enough!) and tie at the back to mimic your fame.
As always, thank you so much for taking the time to read my personal styling blogs. Make sure you check out all of the options on each brand's website and let me know which winter coat you fall for! Don't forget my considerations for when buying a coat and if you struggle with shopping, I have a fab blog here that talks you through the best way to shop till you drop - in a positive way.
Stylish wishes,
Sian
Personal Stylist, London