Last week readers Lynn and Victoria requested a feature on macs similar to the parka round up (here if you missed it). Lynn wants to add a mac to her wardrobe because, as she rightly says, they’re practical and look professional however, “They all seem so meh. I walked past ten people in identical beige macs this morning – I want something different.” Victoria agreed, “I really want a mac but not beige, not boring and not dodgy looking.”

I’m not going to lie, this was a tricky shopping challenge because many of the lightweight coats I spotted already seem to have sold out in most sizes. While I tried to keep under a £100 budget I ended up with two around the £150 mark, but I figure it’s a classic style that would see you through several seasons and so worth spending a bit more. Here’s the skinny on five I found…

Trench, £79.99, Gap

A classic trench style in black, that comes in regular, petite and tall sizes. A good choice if you’re looking for a bit longer but not-too-long a style as the hem hits just above the knee.
You can buy it here

Belted Trench Coat, £165, French Connection

Another classic style that’s available in navy (pictured) and beige. The contrasting coloured buttons and belt buckle add a bit of interest and I very much like how the sleeves have been pushed up to bracelet length in the picture on the left.
You can buy it here

Classic Mac, £60, ASOS

I featured the beige version of this mac in a summer coats round up here. It’s also available in black (pictured above) and navy. I love the length, the slightly swingy shape and the fact that it’s only £60 for a wardrobe classic you’ll wear again and again.
You can buy it here

Hooded Trench Coat, £59.99, Zara

A little bit different from the norm Zara’s take on the trench is single breasted with a concealed zip and button fastening. It’s also got a hood which makes it much more Autumn weather appropriate than the classic trench and means it doesn’t matter if it starts chucking it down but you left your umbrella in one of those brolly bins at a restaurant earlier in the day (is it just me who always does that?!).
You can buy it here

City Trench, £149, Jigsaw

A totally timeless double-breasted belted trench coat made from weatherproofed fabric and featuring all the classic trench details.
You can buy it here

Anyone else spotted any non-beige, non-boring, non-dodgy macs for Lynn and Victoria? Does anyone own a classic Burberry trench? I’ve wanted one ever since I visited the Burberry factory when I was at school, but I’ve always balked at the price. It’s one of those items that I’m sure would work out brilliantly on a cost-per-wear basis in the end as it’s never out of fashion. I should have invested years ago…