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'I need a new winter coat' Is not a phrase I was expecting to have to say this year. Possibly ever. Until recently I was the proud owner of a forever coat - Jigsaw's maxi-city coat in Navy (HRH the Princess of Wales has it in grey). Pure heavy wool. I got it so long ago I can't remember not having it and it looked like it would outlast me.
Unfortunately, it met its match in a toddler with norovirus. I was devastated. Not only because I loved that coat, but because finding a replacement is serious work.
When it comes to coats the choices are endless: trenches, macs, wraps, scarf-collared (you know what I mean) puffers, biker, oversized styles, capes... But it needn't be overwhelming. Tempting as trends may be, I wanted something timeless - and if you're investing, I'd suggest the same. A traditional tailored wool coat is still the smartest way to finish an outfit.
They're warm (really warm), versatile, and endlessly wearable - to the office, to events, at the school gates. A good one works with what's already in your wardrobe and guarantees maximum wear. Even a basic jeans-and-T-shirt combo is instantly elevated with structured shoulders and a sharp lapel. No fuss. No prints. Nothing you'll regret.
Cost is, obviously, a factor. A winter coat is the big-ticket item - but worth it if you get it right. It's the first thing people see; it makes an outfit. And since you'll be wearing it every day for the next 6 months, cost per wear suddenly makes a lot of sense.
Autumn may be all about layering but it's the outerwear that does the heavy lifting. A great coat can make you feel pulled together - even if you've got little better than your pjs on underneath.
So, I did what I had to do. I tried on every coat that came close to ticking the boxes - forty-six in total! And let me tell you, trying on heavy coats in a sweaty changing room on a muggy September afternoon is not my idea of fun.
But it was worth it. I found some real treasures - including one of the very best for just £45. Proof that price doesn't always equal the perfect cut (and it certainly doesn't guarantee 100% wool).
Here's my pick of the best..
- Double-breasted, £550, meandem.com
Isn't it gorgeous? Rich and refined in camel, it looks every inch the expensive coat it is. I love the sharp, structured shape - perfect over tailored trousers or suiting, but just as good thrown over casual looks to elevate them. One of the best out there, without question, though I'd prefer a thicker fabric with a higher wool content for winter warmth. - Belted wool trench, £389, Baukjen.com
Baukjen's had me at hello - it reminds me of a similar military-style coat I wore 20 years ago. Made from a heavy recycled wool twill, it's both fashionable and functional: double-breasted, epaulettes, and a flattering belted waist. A structured, easy-to-throw-on design that gives instant polish without trying too hard. - Relaxed Longline, £325, Jaeger at marksandspencer.com
Ooh, this is hands down my favourite. One of the few I found that's 100% wool -- and it absolutely shows. It feels as luxurious as it looks. Oversized with drop shoulders, it's effortlessly stylish, incredibly warm, and endlessly versatile. Exactly what I want in a winter coat. - Wool mixed, £45, primark.com
At just £45, this chic piece from Primark's Edit range is an absolute steal. Generous in fit, with lots of fabric and a deep charcoal colour that goes with everything. It looks far more expensive than its price suggests. Made from a 66% polyester, 32% wool blend - not far off the composition of some coats five times the price. - Oversized, £69.99, zara.com
Another under-£100 option! I love the soft stone shade although probably not the most practical choice with three kids in tow. Still, I’m a big fan of Zara’s oversized cocoon-style coats. Once again, they’ve nailed the silhouette at an accessible price. - Wool blend, £149, johnlewis.com
This is a near double of Toteme’s £2,580 version (granted, theirs is 100% cashmere, but still). John Lewis has delivered a classic: the perfect black coat, with a substantial, flattering cut. A timeless piece at a price that won’t make you wince - one you’ll wear for many winters to come. - Tweed, £220, albaray.co.uk
I know I said simple and plain was the way to avoid coat fatigue, but I had to include this checked beauty from Albaray. It’s incredibly warm, and the oversized shape with drop shoulders makes it perfect for layering chunky knits without adding bulk. A real cold-weather standout.