If there’s one thing to save hard up your hard earned cash for this Winter, it has to be a fabulous coat. And whilst the chilly season is still a few months away, now is the ideal time to hit the shops to avoid disappointment.
As most of you might know, autumn collections started to ‘drop’ in stores in early February. This may seem crazy when outside it’s 30+ degrees and we’re still enjoying the delights of summer, but the retail season doesn’t care much for the ‘actual’ seasons.
With the international couture fashion weeks all wrapped up, it was clear from the attendees spotted on the streets that a statement coat is the must have piece of the season. Key trends for AW14 are pastels; pale pink, baby blue and lilac, classic neutrals black, navy, grey and camel, pops of colour like cobalt blue and purple and statement plaid and houndstooth.
But which coat is for you?
Here’s a breakdown of the styles, cuts and colours that will suit you.
The Oversized | Maximum volume
This will be my pick for the season. A little bit masculine, a little 1990’s (but not too much) the oversized coat is less structured, has a little volume through the body and under the arms. It’s a very modern cut. This voluminous style requires balance, so you need to ensure that you create a slim silhouette by teaming your coat with a pencil skirt, slim trouser or skinny jean (and preferably heels). Petites (that’s you ladies under 5’4′) approach with caution- this style could overwhelm your frame unless you follow my rules above.
The Classic | Maximum tailoring
A cut that will take you from season to season, day to night, the classic knee length tailored coat is a wardrobe staple. Think just like a blazer only longer and warmer. But classic dressers why not take a fashion risk this season and choose a colour other than black? There are some lovely shades of pink, light grey and lilac this season and the High Street is no better place to invest in a trend without breaking the bank. Choose a style that falls between mid-thigh and the knee as this will work with a variety of outfits- jeans and trousers, dresses and skirts.
The Statement | Bold prints and colour
Why not add a punch of colour to your otherwise boring black and grey winter wardrobe (yes I’ve seen many of yours) and do winter with a bang! Plaid will be huge and is a wonderful way to inject a little interest to your outfit. Houndstooth is making another comeback (did it ever go away?) and is an interesting way to wear black and white for you safe dressers out there. Or why not go all out and go for a vibrant colour that will really set you apart from the crowd. The key to any of these bold choices is to not over-complicate things. If the coat is colourful, keep everything else simple and block coloured.
The best thing about investing in one great coat is that it will instantly update your existing pieces without having to buy an entire new season’s wardrobe. Below are my top picks available now from our local retailers..
Topshop Red Wool Boyfriend Coat $180
Veronika Maine Soft Wool Full Length Coat $415
Trenery PLAID JACQUARD COAT $399
Marcs LEOPARD COLLARLESS COAT $379
SLURGE! Toni Maticevski PROTECTOR OVERSIZE COAT in lilac $1750
Category: Body Shape, Brands, Coats, Coats, Personal Style, Style Advice, Winter Fashion, Winter Style, Womens
