Must have coats for fall. In addition to this being sweater season (yippee! Find out how to style sweaters this fall here), it’s also coat and jacket season and you know what that means, our favourite toppers get to come out and see the world again. We’ve covered the Shoes Every Woman Should Own, the Bags Every Woman Should Own and even the basic Wardrobe Staples, so now let’s take a look at the coats every woman should own.

MUST HAVE COATS FOR FALL

Trench. You knew this one would be on the list and after all, I have yet to see a list without a classic trench. I’ve found two trench coats to be the ideal. For the spring and early fall I wear a lighter one in a light caramel and in winter, I have a beautiful navy wool one. The cut is perfect and the wide belt makes it dressy enough for night (with a fabulous scarf), but it can also be worn for day. I’ll say it’s probably my most versatile piece. Look for a style that hits just above or below the knee for a sophisticated look.

Leather jacket. Everyone needs a leather jacket in their closet. This is your go to piece on the weekends and in the colder months it can be layered under a great big scarf or another jacket. It’s the very essence of cool. If you aren’t into moto jackets, no problem. A structured blazer style will do as well. This is a style that seems to reinvent itself every year, so unless you are prepared to buy a new one every few months, look for a more classic cut that will last you over the course of many seasons.

Classic pea coat. Somehow this style always creeps into my wardrobe. Worn with a striped shirt and a cute hat (maybe a beret), it gives off that fabulous French vibe (think stylish, without even trying). It also goes with denim and skirts, which can make it your go to everyday jacket. Think of it like a winter blazer. Part preppy, part urban chic this coat be worn with a wide range of styles.

Rain coat. Maybe it’s because I spent the past 14 years living in Vancouver, I don’t know, but a stylish rain coat is a must have in transition season. The one I’m currently loving is all an all white a-line with a hood (kind of like little red riding hood, but white). It’s a classic shape that I can wear for years.

Over-sized or men’s inspired coat. Sometimes you just want to throw on something big and comfy and this is that coat. Perfect for when you are wearing a streamlined outfit but need something a little more cozy. Given its vintage-y feel, I love this coat when it’s paired with sneakers or brogues or even with a sparkly retro  brooche. This style also gives you the perfect excuse to play with beautiful fabrics like heritage tweeds, merino wool and cashmere.

Luxury coat. Faux fur anyone? Okay, it can be any fabric you want, although I believe that every woman should have at least one glamorous coat. Hey, you never know when you’ll have a date at the opera. Even if you don’t, a faux fur will be fabulous with oversized sunnies and distressed denim. Another fabulous option would be to choose an intricate brocade with an extravagant faux fur collar.

Parka. This is a coat that not everyone will need as it really depends on just how cold your winters get. I never had the need for one in Vancouver, but now I’m definitely glad to have one. When you are facing your third or fourth week of freezing temperatures and a wind that chills straight to the bone, you’ll be happy to have made this investment.

Wild card. We should all reserve the right to have one coat, purchased in a moment of weakness, because you just loved it. Think bright colours or asymmetrical cuts or  even an animal print. The key for this coat is to give you a striking silhouette. Whatever you choose, make sure you love it!

Of course, not everyone will need every coat on this list, but I find that having a few “specific occasion” coats is very handy. It’s all about having the right coats for your lifestyle, so that you’ll never be left scrambling.

What is your must have everyday coat?

Coats I’m currently loving:

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images of models wearing coat courtesy of DollarPhotoClub

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caroline

Caroline has worked with international designers in fashion retail and completed professional makeup courses when working in the beauty industry. Her love of writing, photography and film inspired her to work at the Canadian Film Center and then to earn a BFA in Screenwriting. In addition to her blog, Style On The Side, you can see her work in Huffington Post Canada and other international websites.

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