Finding your go-to winter coat: A woman’s style guide

There’s no escaping the fact that winter will soon be on its way, and that means updating your wardrobe. Colder weather means cosy jumpers, sweatshirts and of course a winter coat. If you’re not sure what coat to wear this winter, or want to try something new, discover the most popular types of coats and how to pair them best. 

How to choose the right winter coat?

Coats have their own style, colour, and character. Some models have a formal, business-like look, whilst others are feminine, romantic or even playful and vibrant. Since time immemorial, designers have offered us cuts and styles to suit every taste. 

The history of coats spans centuries. Initially, they were sleeveless cloaks and capes. The coat itself, as we know it today, emerged in the 19th century.

Eras have come and gone, fashion has evolved, fabrics and clothing manufacturing processes have improved. Designers have created and continue to create many interesting, comfortable, and stylish coats for us. Some have become classics, or, as they are known in the industry, basics. They are versatile and transcend trends. Fashion houses continue to produce them year after year.  

And now, the most important point I want to convey in this article. You constantly ask me: “Is the duffle coat still fashionable? Do we still wear robe coats?” Girls, these are nothing more than style names. They have nothing to do with fashion. It’s like saying: “Do we still wear skirts? What about trousers?” It’s the cut, the style, the styling that becomes outdated, not the names. 

In this post you’ll discover the modern coats available today, and which one you’re going to want in your wardrobe.

Winter coat models

Robe coat

The most feminine and popular style among fans of timeless essentials has its origins in the Ancient East and is derived from the robe. Wide, loose-fitting styles were worn by both men and women. Everyday robes were protected from the elements, while formal ones were made of silk for members of the wealthy classes.

The robe coat firmly established itself in the modern wardrobe in 1981, at the Max Mara show. The elegant and feminine cut of the coat in the Italian house’s collection quickly caught the eye of fashionistas and has remained a staple in our wardrobes for decades.  

Of course, the model has undergone changes, as designers regularly experiment with materials and color palettes. 

Coats in milky, beige or pastel shades will be relevant in any season. 

• As the cold weather approaches, we pair these styles with wide-leg trousers and midi   dresses.
• And the boldest of the season are choosing wrap coats in genuine and faux leather. 

Cocoon (balloon)

Another popular style. In a world where oversize reigns supreme, this coat is the pinnacle of success. 

The cocoon coat is characterised by a slightly baggy and loose fit. It was first introduced by Cristóbal Balenciaga (he showed an oversized collection). It’s no wonder that we owe the return of this coat to our wardrobes today.

Of course, the cocoon looks a little different now, but its core characteristics and concept remain the same. A very loose fit, with a knee-length or midi length. I even recommend looking at styles a couple of sizes up. This is especially true for colder climates, as a cocoon can easily accommodate a blazer and, if needed, a thin down jacket. 

This season, I recommend wearing this coat with wide-leg jeans, over trouser suits and fitted knit dresses to maintain a balanced proportions. 

Double-breasted coat

A double-breasted coat is characterised by two rows of buttons and can be fitted, loose, or oversized. Like all coats, the double-breasted coat, like all others, essentially originated in men’s wardrobes, military ones, to be precise.

Note the fashionable length of this coat this fall. It hits well below mid-ankle, almost to the floor. 

As for colour, it can be anything. From pastel, neutral shades to the most unexpected bright or printed designs.

This coat is a basic, essential piece. Colour, texture, and print are irrelevant. It’s perfect for both formal and more casual looks. 

Overcoat 

Essentially, a overcoat is a type of double-breasted coat, but with a distinctly military feel that is so popular this season. 

• a “uniform” overcoat is usually made of a thicker material
• It has a belt at the back of the waist
• the cut is more fitted
• there may be patch pockets and shoulder straps
• sometimes a belt and gold buttons

Typically, this is a very long coat, but fashion brands often use a unique, cropped version.

This coat pairs perfectly with leather pants, jeans, and chunky boots with “tractor” soles.

Free coat

A short, double-breasted, loose-fitting style, the pea coat originated in sailor uniforms and migrated into everyday wear. As early as 1848, the pea coat was a work overall made of green cloth. Over time, the style spread to everyday wear, and designers embraced its versatile style. 

Typically, the coat features a turn-down collar, a double row of buttons, a warm lining, and a braided back.

The most versatile models are in dark blue, grey, sand and khaki.

A pea coat can be worn with leather trousers, straight jeans, and it also goes great with knit dresses and miniskirts. 

Duffle coat

This coat is synonymous with true British style. Thanks to Burberry for making the duffle coat an integral part of its DNA.

The Polish frock coat is considered the ancestor of this coat, and it takes its name from the Belgian town of Duffel, where the thick, coarse woolen fabric used to make duffle coats was produced.

Today, the duffle coat features a straight silhouette, a hood, large patch pockets, shoulder pads, and elongated fang-shaped buttons that fasten with loops.

In the best traditions of English style, we wear a duffle coat with loafers, Chelsea boots or flat jockey boots.

Crombs winter coat

The coat is named after the founder of the woolen mill, Scotsman John Crombie. In 1805, he opened a wool spinning mill where he began producing single-breasted tweed coats, which quickly gained popularity among the local population.

The silhouette became an essential part of the wardrobe of government officials and men in high positions.

A crombie is a short coat with a turn-down collar, minimalist cut and most often a hidden fastening.

It will fit well into a business wardrobe and will appeal to fans of classic style.  

Cape 

Capes made a comeback in our wardrobes last fall, thanks to Givenchy.

This striking and stylish design isn’t often seen in everyday looks, and that’s because it requires careful styling.

This modern, loose-fitting, sleeveless coat is a variation on the English knight’s cape. Capes have now become a staple of women’s wardrobes.

And you can combine them with dresses, high boots, and wide trousers.

I hop this article helps you find the right winter coat this season. If you love the post don’t forget to give it a like and share with your friends and family!

Guest post by Bruce Murphy