I'm a Bit of a Minimalist—5 Classic Coat Styles That Are Truly Timeless
You can plan your outfit as carefully as you like, but us Brits know that come the cold months, it's your coat that's the most visible item in your wardrobe. It's the ultimate layering piece, the thing that defines your street style aesthetic and, most importantly, the item that has to strike the perfect balance of fashion and function.
For minimalists, the focus is on finding a simple, understated silhouette that works seamlessly with your outfit. Fortunately, when it comes to coat styles, classic reigns supreme year after year, and this season is no different. Versatile and effortlessly chic, a timeless camel, black or double-breasted coat perfectly completes any look. Adding a long black wool coat to a simple jeans and jumper combination elegantly pulls it all together, and that same coat works just as well for an evening dress-and-heels outfit.
The good news is a classic coat doesn't have to break the bank. High street staples like Mango and H&M have tapped into the importance of a simple, full-service coat, and have some seriously impressive options this season. That being said, as Girl Math dictates, the timelessness of these coats more than justifies opting for an investment piece that rises above seasonal trends and will be your go-to for years to come. Whatever your budget, these are the best simple coats I've found to buy now and love forever.
1. The Best Simple Black Coats
Style Notes: A black coat can be used to create a monochromatic look, or to contrast a jolt of colour.
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Beautifully tailored, this voluminous style gets bonus points for being made from a premium recycled-wool blend.
Everyone's lusting after the camel version, but I think the black one is so sleek.
2. The Best Simple Camel Coats
Style Notes: A camel coat makes every look appear that bit more polished.
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Yes, it's an investment, but a Max Mara camel coat is the classic that every tastemaker swears by.
3.The Best Simple Robe Coats
Style Notes: As comfortable as a bathrobe, but far more stylish (and outside world-appropriate).
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Lapels, big pockets and a chunky belt—this is a very elevated robe coat.
4. The Best Simple Double-Breasted Coats
Style Notes: As Abi proves, floor-sweeping double-breasted coats are seriously elegant.
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The dramatic lapels on this style have caught my eye.
This light beige, supremely soft coat is made with mostly recycled materials.
5. The Best Simple Navy Coat
Style Notes: A navy wool coat is a brilliant styling tool for contrasting with different textures.
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I'm obsessed with the abstract collar on this navy style.
This thick, high neck is sure to keep out the winter chill.
If a wool coat isn't your style, this Studio Nicholson canvas coat is the ideal marriage of form and function.
Next up: People in Paris and London Are Now Wearing Trench Coats in This Fresh New Colour
Jess Kelham-Hohler is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist. She has been a contributor for Who What Wear UK since 2023. Currently based in London following six years in Washington D.C. and New York, she was previously the Digital Editor for Soho House & Co, an international group of private members’ clubs for creatives. She has interviewed a range of artists, creators and more, including Alighieri founder Rosh Mahtani, photographer Misan Harriman and fashion editor Lindsay Peoples Wagner. Today, she writes primarily about fashion, travel and culture for various publications, and has worked as a copywriter and content strategist for brands such as Belstaff, Olivela and Equinox.
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