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Although the autumn/winter runways so far this season have been dominated by fur, trench coats and animal print, not all trends are built to handle wet, windy weather.
As rain and foul weather are guaranteed in the UK in autumn and winter, opting for the correct material and finish is just as important as the silhouette.
Fashion designer Amanda Wakeley said this season’s outerwear trends provide plenty of different ways to dress for the elements without sacrificing design.
Whether you are seeking something for a rainy commute or a coat able to survive an outdoor weekend, these are five trendy styles that could save you from wild weather this winter.
1. The oversized quilted coat
The quilted jacket is a modern classic of coats, possessing the heritage feel of a barn jacket or trench, characterised by its exterior quilt-like top-stitching.
Also known as shells or liners, quilted jackets can vary in weight, length and thickness – and while the thinner options are renowned for transitional spring weather, longer, more padded versions are excellent options for autumn and winter.
Styling them can be tricky, as Wakeley notes: “I would say proportion is everything with a quilted coat.
“I really love a clean but slightly oversized silhouette that finishes at mid-thigh or just above the knee, it gives you warmth without covering the whole body.”
Leaning into the coat’s natural volume also works perfectly for winter layering, if you’re planning on wearing both thermals and jumpers under the coat.
“Don’t make the mistake of trying to give yourself a waist with a quilted coat or jacket,” says Wakeley. “Quilting is rarely anything other than bulky so think about the overall silhouette and the fact that these lightweight jackets can offer a surprising amount of warmth.”
Wakeley says the trick is to balance the volume with more streamlined pieces like turtleneck jumpers and straight-leg trousers with a pair of boots.
They’re also great for wet weather, distinguished by their waterproof shell.
Boden Quilted 4-in-1 Parka, £249
2. The faux fur-trimmed parka
Faux fur-trimmed jackets, on the sleeves and hems, brought whimsy to fashion month, with Conner Ives’ silk and faux-fur jackets going viral online.
Sadly, there is next to nothing practical about silk and fur when it comes to winter weather.
But instead of abandoning the look altogether, Wakeley suggests borrowing the details and applying them to something more practical.
“Rather than committing to an entire faux fur or shearling coat, you could go for a shower-resistant fabric or waxed cotton with a detachable faux-fur trim which is perfect for wet weather as the trims can simply be removed.”
Practical parkas – khaki iterations of which have enjoyed a resurgence this season – with plush collars are perfect for indulging this trend.
The contrast between a utilitarian fabric and a soft trim makes it particularly versatile.
They can be worn with jeans and heeled leather boots or wide-leg trousers and and trainers for something more casual.
H&M Studio Tie-Belt Puffer Coat in Dark Green, £169.99
3. The duffle coat
The humble duffle coat has got a high-fashion update, making a swift return on the runways of Dries Van Noten, Mithridate, Louis Vuitton and Polo Ralph Lauren this season.
From wartime uniform and Bowie music video icon to an indie sleaze stalwart – the distinctive toggle-fastening coat is a multi-tasker.
But with child-like-come-Paddington-Bear charm, the duffle coat is a challenge to style.
“I would suggest keeping everything else very simple,” says Wakeley.
“A cropped duffle looks fabulous with high-waisted, wide-leg trousers, while an oversized, longer version feels more modern worn over a fluid knit or a silk shirt and jeans.”
Colour is equally important, she says, suggesting “a sophisticated neutral, like navy, charcoal, or chocolate and look for pared-back toggles rather than anything too decorative. Then add a sleek boot and bag”.
While traditional wool duffle coats can offer some protection against light rain, they are not generally waterproof.
For a more practical interpretation, look for duffle-inspired coats made from coated fabrics with a protective hood.
Seasalt Cornwall Cardinham Duffle Coat, £160
4. The hooded trench coat
Few pieces of outerwear have proved as enduring both practically and stylishly as the trench coat, and invented to bear the worst of the weather in the trenches of the First World War, gabardine remains the gold standard due to its breathable, waterproof qualities.
This season, Burberry, Victoria Beckham, Gucci and McQueen revisited the classic.
But the familiar belted, knee-length silhouette has been replaced by bold colours, wide cuts and funnel-neck closures.
“The trench has become much more fluid and expressive this season. We’re seeing generous, swingy silhouettes, strong funnel necks and long hems that finish at mid-calf or even the ankle,” Wakeley explains.
She also points to the cape-trench hybrid, which offers the movement of a cape with the structure and practicality of a traditional trench.
“Classic stone and camel will always earn their place in a wardrobe, but chocolate, deep olive, burgundy and inky navy feel particularly on trend now, too.”
A longer trench can be particularly striking over wide-leg trousers or a midi skirt, while a belt offers “a defined waist [which] is very flattering”.
“But the trench also looks fabulous worn open,” Wakeley continues. “That versatility and practicality is what makes it a true forever piece.”
Barbour Antonella Showerproof Trench Coat, £269
5. The waxed barn jacket
Coming up to take the trench coats’ place as the most practical piece, the barn jacket has moved well beyond its countryside origins.
Its boxy shape, practical pockets and quintessential wax finish has become a favourite on the runways of Prada and Toteme.
“The waxed car coat or barn jacket is going to be a real hero,” says Wakeley.
“It has the practicality of a country jacket, but the newer versions are more sophisticated.”
She suggests looking for richer colours rather than the classic country green.
“I would choose one in espresso or cream, ideally with a contrast corduroy collar.”
And while the jacket’s origins might be utilitarian, styling them with more luxurious, smarter pieces can elevate them for the city or the office.
“I’d wear it over a tonal cashmere jumper, with another knit around my shoulders, wide-leg jeans or a leather pant, and a great boot.
“That tension between something rugged and something refined is what makes a look feel effortless.”
For this coat it’s important to remember that waxed jackets also need periodic reproofing to maintain their resistance to rain.
White Stuff Andie Wax Coat, £140
Details to check before buying your waterproof coat
Although visual appeal is often the main consideration when buying a coat, several subtle details determine how well it withstands rain, Greg Potter of military clothing supplier Cadet Direct said.
Drawing on principles from armed forces kit, he suggests checking certain specific key design elements.
“Look for taped seams, which help prevent water from entering through stitching, and protective storm flaps over zips to provide another layer of protection,” he says.
Practical features such as a well-fitted hood, adjustable cuffs and a drawcord hem also play a significant role in keeping the wearer dry.
Potter recommends evaluating coverage through movement.
“A simple test is to raise your arms above your head while trying the jacket on,” he explains. “Your lower back should remain covered, and the sleeves should still reach your wrists when your arms are fully extended.”
Jackets should always be tried on over standard winter layers, rather than a lightweight top, to guarantee proper functionality, he added.
