How to Choose the Right Autumn Coat
Your coat is the piece people see most from October until the first warm days of spring. It goes on every time you leave the house, so it is worth choosing one that feels right rather than one that simply looks good on the hanger. Here is what to think about before you buy.
Start with the length
The right length depends on how you spend your days. A hip-length jacket is easy for driving, shopping and quick errands, and it pairs well with trousers and jeans. A knee-length coat is the most versatile choice: it keeps you warm over a skirt or dress, looks smart for lunch or a family visit, and still feels relaxed with flat shoes. A longer coat that reaches mid-calf gives the most warmth on cold, windy days and makes a lovely line over boots.
If you only want one coat this season, knee length is usually the safest choice because it works with almost everything in your wardrobe.
Check the fit at the shoulders
The shoulder seam should sit at the edge of your shoulder, not halfway down your arm and not pulling across your back. A coat that fits well at the shoulders looks neat when it is buttoned and when it is worn open. Lift your arms forward as if reaching for a shelf: you should be able to move freely without the back feeling tight.
Sleeves should reach the base of your thumb when your arms are relaxed. That way your wrists stay covered and there is room for a jumper cuff underneath.
Leave room for layers
Autumn in Britain rarely stays the same for long. A bright morning can turn into a chilly, damp afternoon, so most of us layer. When you try a coat, picture it over your thickest jumper. If you like chunky knits, or if you are between sizes, going one size up is often the comfortable choice.
A fine knit under a coat is one of the easiest ways to stay warm without bulk. You can take the coat off indoors and still look put together. Have a look through our women's knitwear for soft layers that sit neatly under an outer layer.
Think about the details
Small details make a big difference on a cold day:
- A hood is handy for sudden showers when an umbrella is not to hand.
- Deep pockets keep your hands warm and hold your phone and keys.
- A collar you can turn up protects your neck from the wind.
- A zip with a button placket keeps draughts out better than buttons alone.
- A soft lining adds warmth without adding much weight.
Choose a colour that works hard
Neutral shades such as camel, navy, charcoal, black and soft grey go with nearly everything and never look out of date. They also make it easy to add colour through a scarf, a jumper or a bag. If you already own a neutral coat, autumn is a good time to try a richer tone. Deep green, burgundy, rust and warm brown suit the season beautifully and flatter many complexions.
A practical tip: lighter colours show marks from rain and busy pavements more quickly, so darker shades are often the easier everyday choice.
Consider the weather you actually get
For drizzle and mild days, a lighter jacket or a water-resistant parka is often all you need. For frosty mornings and long walks, look for a padded or wool-look coat with a higher collar. Many people find that two coats cover the whole season well: one lighter layer for October and a warmer one for the depths of winter.
Find your coat
When you have an idea of the length, fit and colour you want, browse our women's coats and jackets and filter by style. Choose the piece you will be happy to put on every morning, add a cosy knit underneath, and you are ready for whatever the British autumn brings.