Once upon a time, if I saw something I liked, I’d add it to my basket without thinking and that would be that.
In recent months however, I’ve noticed that my shopping habits are changing… especially when it comes to buying wardrobe staples like outerwear.
Nowadays I look for three things:
1) Is it good quality? 2) Do I feel good in it? 3) Will it defy trends and still look good in years to come?
If the answer to all three is ‘abso-bloody-lutely Lydia!’ it officially gets my seal of approval and I add it to my basket.
With that in mind (with winter fast approaching that is), I thought it was about time that I created an outerwear series that shares my favourite winter coats, blazers and dog walking jackets with you all. As you can see, I’ve started with timeless winter coats – all of which have been selected with the above thoughts in mind.
High Street
H&M
On the rare occasion that I opt in for bold colour, I like to choose classic bold colours that look good year-on-year. With that said, this rich, royal blue wool coat from H&M stood out from the crowd. As they’ve done in the images, I’d style this with my McQueen double buckle belt and Christian Louboutin ‘Kate’ Boots for a more tailored look.
COS
If you’re looking for a more relaxed fit, I love this belted black number from Cos. It’s the perfect option if you’re looking for a coat that works well with chunky knitwear. Opting for a black winter coat ensures that it will never date, too.
OASIS
If you’re looking for a bargain, this belted oatmeal number from Oasis is currently on sale and is a great option if you’re on a budget but are looking for a tailored classic. The funnel neck allows you to style it in a number of ways. The warm, oatmeal tone will work every winter too.
MANGO
A faux fur coat adds instant pizazz to winter outfits and is perfect when you’re looking for something a bit more glamorous to wear throughout the season. Be it to festive Christmas Eve drinks with friends or a New Years Eve party, this Mango coat will keep you looking (and feeling) the part.
High End High Street
LYDIA MILLEN X Karen Millen
I won’t lie, I’m very proud of this coat! For me, it combines good quality tailoring with a classic colour for autumn/winter and the corseted back adds a unique twist to save it from being just another camel coat!
LYDIA MILLEN X Karen Millen
Can you tell I had Kate Middleton in mind when I designed this one?! The festive, forest green is perfect for winter. The belted waist adds that all-important definition. And the deep pockets are a game changer if you forget your gloves too!
Karen Millen
I mentioned this coat on my stories a few days back. If you’re looking for a winter coat with a more countryside aesthetic, look no further because Karen Millen have nailed it with this one. I’m genuinely so impressed with everything from the print to the fit. It ticks all the boxes if you ask me.
Designer
SANTINNI
Referencing thoughts above on faux fur coats, this Santinni cashmere and wool-blend coat fits the brief with ease! It’s the perfect coat to make a statement in year-on-year. The quality of the coat will make sure that you’re warm and cosy whilst doing so, too.
DRIES VAN NOTEN
Just looking at this coat makes me feel like I could conquer the world! The cut on it is simply impeccable. You’ll have to be quick though because it’s clearly a coat in demand…
MAX MARA
So there you have it. The first instalment of my outerwear series. Next up, I’ll be turning my attention to jackets so I look forward to welcoming you back in the coming days!
Looking for the perfect autumnal staples? Take a look at my favourites on Amazon here
