This might seem controversial, but here at Marie Claire, we love the arrival of colder weather, because it means a fresh season full of new trends and cosy layers.
For Autumn/Winter 2024, you can expect plenty of wardrobe heroes, from sheer tops to boho dresses, but the wardrobe item we are most excited about is the humble coat. Or not so humble as it turns out, since AW24 is pulling it in whole new directions - literally.
I've done all the hard work for you and pulled out the 5 coat trends that are really worth the investment this season. And if you need any extra wardrobe guidance for the new season, do check out our 5 denim trends and 5 boot styles.
1. Capes
I know what you're thinking: capes can be a bit costume-y, in a Three Musketeers kind of way. But as I saw on the AW24 catwalks, they are anything but lame this season. They were re-imagined by a plethora of designers this season, including Bottega Veneta, Celine, Bora Aksu, Chloe, Balmain and Batsheva. Layered over a boho dress, baggy jeans and a jumper or a masculine suit, they'll elevate your entire wardrobe.
2. Shaggy coats
The keyword here is texture: think coats that will make everyone want to touch you. This is the coat trend for those of you who like to have a bit of fun with their wardrobe. During fashion month, I saw a peach shearling coat at Michael Kors, a faux fur maxi coat with exaggerated collar at Acne Studios, a chic cream teddy coat at Stella McCartney and the most joy-inducing pink feathered coat at Erdem, complete with matching mules.
For a more wearable take on the trend, opt for a camel or brown teddy coat.
3. Maxi coats
Coats are taking on a pavement-skimming length this season, and there is something so inherently chic about this cut. On the catwalk, designers such as David Koma, Gucci and Gauchere played with proportions, teaming uber-long coats with short pants. For everyday though, you might want to team yours with a long knitted dress or tailored trousers and a chunky jumper.
Don't make the mistake of thinking this is a trend that only suits tall women, at 5ft4, I always wear maxi coats and never feel swamped.
4. Scarf coats
Scarf coats aren't exactly a new trend, but since I'm still seeing a lot of them on and off the catwalk, I'm including them in this round-up. If you haven't jumped on the trend yet, this is the time to do it. Toteme's scarf coat is the one that started it all, and it's been brought back for yet another season in several hues. There are plenty of great alternatives on the high street too.
5. Leather jackets
Whether you're opting for a short 90s style blazer or a longline leather trench coat, a leather jacket will never, ever go out of style. It's a more expensive purchase, yes, but one you will not regret making. At Fashion Month, I saw oversized moto jackets at JW Anderson and Supriya Lele, a structured hourglass coat at Acne Studios, a sleek funnel neck number at Burberry and long belted trenches at Alexander McQueen.
