What Coat Should I Wear? A Guide to Matching Coats to Outfits

With jeans and a knit
A longer coat can give a simple jeans outfit a clear shape, while a shorter jacket offers a relaxed option. Try the combination with your usual boots or trainers before judging it.
If the jumper is chunky, check the arms and shoulders. A coat that feels tight over your everyday knit won't become more useful because it looks good on a hanger.

With office trousers
A straightforward coat over tailored trousers can keep the outfit visually calm. Check that a blazer fits beneath it without bunching at the sleeves.
You can repeat a colour between trousers, shoes and accessories to bring the combination together without matching every item.

Check out or Review - Ten Fabulous Coats and Jackets for this Winter

With midi dresses and skirts
Try both a shorter jacket and a longer coat. Each can work; the result depends on the garment's volume and where the layers end.
Look at the outfit from the side as well as the front. If the coat compresses a full skirt awkwardly, a different shape may be more useful than another colour.

With a party dress
Consider the arrival, the journey and the venue's cloakroom. A coat needs to accommodate sleeves and any fuller skirt, not simply complement the dress neckline.
Avoid relying on a delicate cover-up for a long cold walk. You can choose practical outerwear for the journey and let the dress take centre stage indoors.

With leggings or casual winter clothes
A longer coat may provide the coverage you prefer, while a shorter practical jacket can suit active errands. Keep the outfit comfortable enough for the day's movement.

For wet-weather outings
Check the product's stated weather protection, hood, fastenings and care guidance. A dressy coat and a rain jacket solve different problems, so choose according to the forecast and activity.

Check out our Review - Ten Fabulous Coats and Jackets for this Winter