Cover it up: Nine new ways to bundle out in winter coats

"Let’s start with Helen McAlinden’s impeccably cut ‘Beryl’ herringbone tweed coat. Wear with cropped trousers and loafers or a knit dress and boots and let the tailoring do the talking."

Thu, 13 Nov, 2025 - 01:00

Annmarie O’Connor

It’s that time of year again where outerwear becomes the outfit. Statement shapes, tactile fabrics and a dash of drama can turn anything from the humble school run to running late into a bona fide fashion moment.

The beauty of a great coat? It covers a multitude, which makes getting it right the ultimate wardrobe power move.

Let’s start with Helen McAlinden’s impeccably cut ‘Beryl’ herringbone tweed coat. Wear with cropped trousers and loafers or a knit dress and boots and let the tailoring do the talking.

For a contemporary spin on a classic, Arket’s leopard print collarless car coat proves that animal print is, indeed, a neutral.

Throw on over just about anything and consider this your one-and-done purchase. Ditto for H&M’s scarf-detail wool-blend coat - an accessorised look for grab and go mornings.

Elsewhere on the high street, M&S proves what’s on the outside counts. From their glossy, structured and unapologetically extra mock croc trench to a padded duvet coat made from feather and down Stormwear™, choose your stylish foil as the occasion (or weather) demands.

Although, RIXO’s patchwork suede coat may not get you far on a ‘grand soft day’ its signature retro elegance deserves a shout-out.

Save this one for ‘car-to-bar’ scenarios or when you’ve got a Child of Prague in your handbag.

Likewise, & Other Stories and Karen Millen both serve main character energy with their oversized and cinched faux fur iterations, while The House of Sunny’s ‘Dolly’ coat opts for a supporting role with low-key collar and cuffs.

So much choice, you may never want to go inside.

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