Layer up for autumn in a warm and stylish coat

eptember is a time of new beginnings: kids go back to school, Bake Off is on our TV screens, and, of course, the return of our autumn/winter wardrobes.

After a summer consisting of a rotation of T-shirts and shorts (40 degree heatwave, anyone?), there’s something comforting in layering up roll necks, shirts, and outerwear for the chillier season ahead.

Enter the trusty coat, which will become your cold weather companion, helping you beat the chill whilst completing your suave put-together toasty winter outfit. If you invest in a quality, timeless style, it’s a purchase that will last you for years to come - so don’t be afraid to go for a higher price tag for a designer coat that stands the test of time.

You may think that September is too early to be buying your new season outerwear, but, in the wise words of Ned Stark, ‘Winter Is Coming’, so it’s much better to cop your favourite design now and make the most out of it, rather than risk the inevitable end-of-season out-of-stock error message when you finally get around to it.

Dressing for warmth doesn’t mean your style has to take a hit - in fact, a well slick, layered-up ensemble has a much stronger impact than a simple top and bottoms combo. For the slightly warmer autumn months, a lightweight trench or mac is an easy go-to that could be worn over a simple shirt and trousers, or reinforced with a chunky fleece or hoodie and heavy denim when there’s a nip in the air.

Otherwise, a woollen overcoat, peacoat, or duffel à la Paddington Bear is great for a smarter dress code. Puffer jacket works well when the frosty mornings arrive, while if cosiness is always on your agenda, then a tactile shearling or robe coat will tick the boxes. But if you loathe carrying a cumbersome umbrella, you should be on the lookout for a rainproof style - preferably with a hood to avoid ruining your barnet.

So keep scrolling to check out a few of our favourites available to buy now.

Designing collections that ooze Parisian cool is Sandro’s MO, and this overcoat is no exception. Worn simply with a white T-shirt and straight leg jeans, you’d look at home strolling the banks of the Seine, espresso in hand. Crafted using a wool and cashmere blend, it’s super soft and expertly cut, making for a coat that exudes effortless luxury. Très chic.

Winter is never without evening events aplenty, so you’ll need a coat that works for a smart dress code. COS’ grey overcoat is the answer. Cut to a comfortable relaxed fit yet tailored with notch lapels, slanted pockets, and a simple three button closure for a neat and tidy finish, it is best paired with a full monochrome outfit and you’ll be the smartest chap in town.

London-based brand Studio Nicholson designs pieces with sustainability in mind, creating collections that all work together as a capsule wardrobe season after season. The brand’s outerwear is luxurious and casual, and the Ventus Coat is a case in point, from the oversized silhouette to the high quality fabric. Known for their signature oversized silhouette, their pieces are easy to wear and look effortlessly cool.

Winner of the Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design, and having already collaborated with the likes of Ganni and Mulberry, London-based brand Ahluwalia is one to watch.

In the label’s trademark style, this mac is created sustainably using deadstock fabrics, and features its signature wave design in a contrasting check panel.

No mac edit is complete without the iconic Mackintosh. Dating back to 1824, the brand is one of the world’s most influential outerwear labels, from developing the first type of fabric with entirely waterproof technology, to designing trenches for the British military and railway services. This most recent style is experty crafted using its signature cotton which is waterproof, windproof, and breathable, making for the perfect all-weather coat.

Reversible, lightweight, and adjustable, Garbstore’s Ranger Mac is a coat that does it all. With khaki green on one side and digitally printed camo on the other, it’s a versatile piece that you can switch up depending on your outfit. Two for the price of one - you can’t argue with that.

Lightweight and stylish, Arket’s quilted liner coat can either be worn on it’s own for the autumnal months, or as an insulating layer beneath an overcoat for those fresh days when you can feel a bite in the air. Made using recycled polyester and down, it’s a more sustainable choice that won’t be hard on your bank account.

At a glance, Acne Studios’ quilted shell coat is a simple unassuming affair, although on second take you’ll notice the asymmetric quilted pattern, heart shaped buttons, and dropped shoulder that make for an understated statement. Cut to a relaxed fit, it’s perfect for a chilly day spent mooching around London - and it’ll go with nearly everything in your wardrobe.

Calling all country folk. Barbour’s quilted jacket will see you through all of the dog walks, woodland forages, and country trails that your heart desires. Featuring a classic tartan lining, patch pockets, and stud front fastening, you’ll be the envy of the woodland. Paired with earthy tones, you’ll look and feel the part - even if the extent of your walking actually doesn’t go beyond Hyde Park.

The classic trench. Dating back to the First World War, Burberry’s trench was borne out of practicality and has since become an iconic house signature. Having survived over a century, it’s a coat that stands the test of time.

Inspired by the brand’s archive, the modern iteration has been updated with contemporary proportions but is crafted using the classic garbadine fabric with vintage check lining.

Home of all things American prep, Gant’s houndstooth trench wouldn’t look out of place worn with an argyle knit and wool trousers swanning around an Ivy League campus. Cut to an oversized fit using an Italian wool blend, it’s a double breasted design that will never go out of fashion.

For a modern take on the classic, go for Weekday’s ultra-oversized style for extra swishiness. Featuring all the tell-tale trench signatures, from belted cuffs, to wide lapels and a waist belt, it’s a coat that will last you for years to come.