The coats and jackets every man should own

The single-breasted, sharply tailored wool coat is a true classic. Its precise lines will add a sophisticated edge to your workwear, smartening up any outfit. Given this coat’s well-documented versatility, it should be a no-brainer investment.

HOW TO WEAR IT:

Layer this coat over your tailoring to keep you warm during the working week, making sure it’s roomy enough to wear over your suit jacket, but not so large as to overwhelm. Dress it down on the weekend over an open-collared shirt, V-neck sweater and jeans, while adding a soft scarf looped around your neck for a sartorial flourish.

WHEN TO WEAR IT:

Perfect for the working week, or to smarten up a weekend look while running around town.

Heat retention and functionality combine to create the ideal coat for the colder days of winter. The parka’s practical features and rugged, modern design work well for a brisk walk in the park, or to be layered on top of your suit when comfort takes priority.

HOW TO WEAR IT:

The parka has enough volume to do most of the talking, so keep your look simple. Use the inside toggles to cinch the waist slightly for a more defined silhouette, and remember, don’t overstuff the pockets, to ensure clean lines.

WHEN TO WEAR IT:

The parka’s thickness and warmth make it the perfect coat for those long days when you’re facing the winter elements.

A timeless piece that will never go out of style, the double-breasted coat is a must-have for any wardrobe. First popular in the 1930s, this coat has stood the test of fashion time and references an era of sartorial elegance, as well as 1980s power dressing.

HOW TO WEAR IT:
Choose the iconic camel shade as a classic investment piece, or opt for military green and other unexpected textures for a playful alternative. Experiment with the finer details, whether buttons or the width of the lapels, and show your confidence in dealing with a classic. This coat is the best for a formal occasion, worn over a tuxedo or your most formal business wear.

WHEN TO WEAR IT:

The double-breasted coat is your go-to when you’re keen to make an instant, great impression. The double-breasted coat oozes sophistication and confidence, and slung over the shoulders of your power suit, the world is your oyster.

From the ski slopes to the urban obstacle course (aka rush hour), the down jacket has risen in the style stakes to become a versatile fashion piece. Its modern sportswear influences mean there are a great selection of colourful options to get you noticed, or more classic versions for pure warmth.

HOW TO WEAR IT:

The down jacket is a great coat to wear on its own with a hooded sweatshirt or shirt, but there’s potential to layer the lighter versions under more classic coats, such as single- and double-breasted wool or cashmere. Look for fabrics that are hardwearing and easy to clean, as this coat will get a lot of wear during the winter months.

WHEN TO WEAR IT:

The puffer jacket, as it’s colloquially known, works equally for a weekend getaway in the countryside or the hustle of a city landscape. Note that this coat tends to work best for casual occasions.

A contemporary take on the single-breasted coat, the oversized coat’s roomier fit can express a confident nonchalance. Its classic design is belied by small, but bold deviations from tradition: a wider fit at the hem and sloping shoulders. This is a fashion-forward coat, showing, as ever, that the devil is in details.

HOW TO WEAR IT:

The oversized coat can either emphasise a slim-fit outfit underneath – say, a turtleneck and slim fit trousers – or else, it can offer a roomy fit over a chunky-knit jumper. Play with the colour and texture of this coat, or stick to classic wool, cashmere or checked fabrics.

WHEN TO WEAR IT:

Swing this coat over your business ensemble or smart-casual weekend look to upend an outfit’s silhouette. This is a great companion for a gallery visit or weekend brunch.

The most rebellious of our staple coats, the blouson has left its military roots behind to become workwear, albeit with a punk and rock’n’roll edge. The blouson can be elegant in light silks, fashion-forward in metallic leathers or more classic in structured waxed cotton. True bomber styles will feature side pockets on the sleeves, flight zippers and an elasticated high-collar that lays flat against the neck.

HOW TO WEAR IT:

Context is key. Indulge in a high-shine metallic leather bomber for a night out with friends, or fall back on a more classic, soft nappa lambskin coat on a Sunday afternoon, worn over smart denim or a shirt.

WHEN TO WEAR IT:

The blouson is light in weight, perfect for more temperate seasons. A true trans-seasonal jacket.

Like a pair of sunglasses, consider the gilet as an accessory that can wholly change your look. The gilet is a fun way to express your individual style, add a pop of colour or provide additional texture to your outfit, all the while keeping you warm. From light to heavy padding, sporty to more formal, the options are limitless.

HOW TO WEAR IT:

Choose something sporty, colourful and nylon for business casual and weekend outfits, or opt for lighter, padded versions to provide an extra layer of heat under a suit jacket or coat. More sartorial versions made with tailored wool or canvas cotton sit smartly over a business suit and tie, for bright, autumnal days. 

WHEN TO WEAR IT:

The gilet can take you all the way through from those chilly days of early spring to the first frosts of autumn, when all you really need is a light sweater and denim jacket.