As temperatures begin to dip and the crisp air wraps itself around city streets, one wardrobe essential rises above fleeting trends to offer both form and function: the long coat.
A perennial fashion favourite, long coats not only offer the warmth we crave in chilly weather but also bring with them an air of effortless elegance and sophistication. This season, the long coat isn't merely outerwear; it's a statement, a silhouette and a canvas for personal expression.
Be it tailored wool, sweeping trench styles, or plush belted numbers, they offer more than just warmth. Long coats elongate the figure, elevate even the simplest of outfits and allow for dramatic movement with every stride.
When choosing the perfect long coat, colour plays a crucial role. Classic hues like camel, charcoal, navy and cream continue to dominate, loved for their versatility and timeless appeal.
Camel, in particular, remains a fashion editor's favourite. It is a colour that communicates both luxury and ease, pairing seamlessly with earth tones and monochrome looks.
However, for those willing to step beyond the traditional, the runways have also embraced rich, mood-lifting shades: forest green, midnight blue and even burnt orange are having a moment. These deeper tones bring warmth to dreary winter days and can refresh a wardrobe otherwise grounded in basics.
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Styling a long coat in the cold season requires a keen understanding of layering, a skill that merges practicality with polish. The key is to avoid bulk without sacrificing insulation.
Start with thin but thermal base layers, like merino wool tops or fitted roll-necks. Over that, add structured knits or lightweight cashmere jumpers.
Bottoms can range from slim jeans to wide-leg trousers, depending on the silhouette of the coat.
To achieve that coveted high-fashion street style look, pair a belted coat over a chunky knit dress and knee-high boots.
Or, for a more minimalist approach, wear an open wool coat over a monochrome outfit: black trousers and a cream jumper with a pop of colour in your accessories, such as a statement scarf or patterned gloves.
Accessories can make or break the overall look. A wide belt cinched over the coat can redefine the shape, especially for oversized or wrap styles.
Add a touch of glamour with a brooch pinned at the collar or a silk scarf tied at the neck. Footwear is equally essential; sleek ankle boots or structured loafers complete the ensemble with just the right balance of chic and comfortable.
The long coat is more than a shield against the cold; it's an expression of personal style, a nod to classic fashion, and a testament to the idea that cold-weather dressing needn't be dreary.