I have not bought a winter coat yet and I have been on the lookout for a timeless piece, in a classic shape to work with my entire wardrobe. Meeting these requirements is not exactly easy — it needs to be the right length for my height, be cut in a way that flatters my shape and in a colour that is versatile. Thankfully, there are plenty to choose from this year, and I really do like this military trend which brands such as Marks and Spencer are focusing on this season with a stellar range of coats for all shapes and sizes. Whether it is a long coat, a pea coat, or a three quarter length coat you need, I have picked out some of the best making their way to the shop floors over the next month or two.
Marks and Spencer
Watching this collection come down the catwalk at the autumn winter preview in September was a real treat for anyone in this business. Yes, military is the key theme, and it is a good choice at that. Black, check, and dark green are the key colours, with wool, naturally, being the key texture (black coat, €185 ). Colour is also present which is a nice refreshing look for the colder evenings (dogtooth coat, €115 ). M&S has one of the strongest collections this season across Autograph, Limited Collection, and Per Una so pop in to the nearest store. And do not forget the lingerie range, Rosie for Autograph has some lovely gift ideas too, if you are planning on starting the Christmas shopping.
Fran and Jane
This Irish brand just keeps getting better and better with each season and it is great to see a home grown brand do so well both here and in the UK. The cape style coat is a trend not to be missed this year, and Fran and Jane have a lovely black one with a buckle detail of which I am a big fan. Small details like buckles and buttons can add character to a plain colour or texture and can almost be a substitute for accessories (black cape from a selection of coats at Fran and Jane ).
Penney’s
Reliable Penney’s cannot be faulted for providing us with the best trends at the most affordable prices. One of my favourite pieces from the store this year is the black wax jacket (€31 ), a casual but chic heritage style coat which can be worn with jeans or dressed up over a skirt and opaque tights. This is a nice length too, for warmth, most importantly, but if you are wearing with leggings it gives you some longer length for layering too.
Heatons
If you want to add a little colour, Heatons has a great coat in the sweetest shade of purple, in fact, you might argue it is more of a berry shade. This look is quite sixties and fun, and over any pair of black trousers or your LBD for a party, this coat will add a ray of light. Also watch out for some lovely wool trench coats from Heatons.
