Transitional Coats {Obsessed}

One of my favourite things to buy in the fashion stakes is a lovely coat. Some might say I have a problem (my husband in particular would definitely say I have outerwear purchasing obsession issues) but a chic trench or a beautifully cut midi length number can’t fail to make an otherwise relatively dowdy outfit, appear altogether more sophisticated.

In other words, I shove on any old collection of scruffs and cover them up with an elegant final layer. I suppose some might call this cheating, I like to think of it as being efficient.

I always always have a “transitional” coat. A full on winter number is often too warm and cumbersome for September, October and moving towards Spring. With all of the travelling to London I also find wearing any kind of fleece or fur lined garment is much like being cocooned in your own sweaty sauna whilst on the tube, even if it’s freezing outside. However this is the UK and we never really know when it’s going to piss it down without much prior warning thus resulting in a combination of soggy camisole and damp jeans. And nobody wants that.

I tend to look for something lightweight that will work with the majority of outfits I own. I invariably opt for either grey or khaki although right now I am having a moment with both a check print and various shades of pink.

The coat I have finally chosen is actually from Miss Selfridge (you can see it in the header images above). Admittedly a brand that my perception would be I am at least a decade too old for, but a practical and stylish coat is exactly that – regardless of label. AND it was reasonably priced at £65. I like the subtle yellow stripe and the masculine slightly boxy fit. If you fancy this coat for yourself I would absolutely recommend going down a size – it is supposed to be “over sized” but I’m wearing a UK 4 in the images (I’m normally a UK 6) and it is still very roomy.

If you are looking for something similar but more tailored and minus the yellow, then this checked coat from River Island is perfect.

The coat I NEARLY bought (literally faffed over it for a week) is the pink blouson duster coat from Topshop. I can’t justify owning this as well but it is truly elegant and feminine, and it’s a gorgeous dusky rose hue.

I have always coveted a classic Burberry trench (who hasn’t?) but as it’s way out of my price range, this beige dupe from M&S is very tempting. On the subject of Marks and Spencers, they have launched a lovely wool design with pockets recently that comes in a variety of colours, my favourites are pink (surprise) and the light grey (yes I am predictable).

Last but not least, I am very partial to a parka – and the grey utility style from KIN at John Lewis is immense. As an aside I really rate the KIN range for quality and cut in general, admittedly some of it is a bit dare I say frumpy? but I really recommend having a butchers at the whole collection, the bags in particular are super value.

Have you bought a transitional coat? Are you a fan of a check or a purveyor of pink? Do share links of lovely things you have bought or that are on your wish list in the comments section below.

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