Fall 2009/Winter 2010 Coat Styles

Leather

Shown: Truth & Pride Crop Leather Jacket, Marc New York Belted Leather Trench Coat
The trend in leather outerwear is for jackets rather than coats, but leather jackets can be quite warm! Find a thick motorcycle jacket or a fashionable brown leather trench (black leather trenches are just a bit Matrix). When it comes to leather jackets, splurge and buy real leather since it’s warmer. Leather jackets will last a lifetime if conditioned occasionally, so choose a classic style (yes, there are classic motorcycle styles).

Colorful Trench

Shown: DKNY Twill Trench, Burberry Ruched Trench
The trench is again popular this cold weather season. This Fall/Winter, brighten those dreary skies with a bright pop of color! A colorful trench coat is a versatile pick that works regardless of your personal style. Choose a bright color like hot pink, yellow, orange or green. Or, go truly Fall with a jewel-toned coat.
Be careful because trench coats can be quite thin. If you require a thick Winter coat, find a wool trench or a canvas coat that is lined.

Vintage/Retro Wool Coat

Shown: McGinn Boucle Swing Coat, Tahari Coat
The most popular wool coat style this season draws inspiration from the jackets worn by Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy. Tall collars, modern cuts and slim lines make these coats feminine and sophisticated. So much so, you’ll want to plan your outfit around your coat!

Military Jackets

Shown: Gryphon Beaded Herringbone Peacoat, Tory Burch ‘Annouck’ Double Breasted Moleskin Jacket
Like leather jackets, this trend is more a jacket than a coat. A lightweight military jacket is definitely a must-have this Fall! The style is so prolific, it has spilled over into coat styles as well. Military style coats are characterized by strong shoulders, structured lines and brass buttons.

Quilted Coats

Shown: Burberry Quilted Coat, Jones New York Quilted Satin Topper
A throw back to the styles of the 80’s, quilted coats remind me of the jackets I wore as a kid. Often filled with down, quilted coats are arguably the warmest coats you can buy. These are great to own if you live in a cold, snowy locale. Don’t worry, the styles in stores this season are far more stylish than the options of the 80’s. Find a quilted trench coat for a more fitted look. Or, choose a quilted coat that is tailored to avoid the doughboy look (though there are coats like that, too).

Fall 2009/Winter 2010 Coat Trends

These are the most prevalent trends for coats of all styles.

Fur

Cropped faux fur vests and coats are a great addition to an evening wear outfit. They’ll keep you toasty and you’ll look sexy-sophisticate as well.
Fur is also a popular embellishment. Find a quilted or trench coat with a fur collar, sleeves or hem detail.
Shown: Du Monde Ombre Faux Beaver Jacket

Winter White

White coats stand out in a crowd and offer a bright spot in the midst of the Winter doldrums. The problem with white coats–especially wool ones–is obvious…they get dirty quickly. So, scotchgard the bejesus out of that baby and worry no more.
Shown: Steve Madden Coat

High Collars

High collars are trendy on every style of coat this season. Not only do they add an extra layer of sophistication, they also keep you a tad bit warmer–especially when paired with a warm scarf.
Shown: Ellen Tracy Kimono Topper

Strong Shoulders

In keeping with the strong shoulders of the 80’s retro look, bold built-out shoulders are a popular trend for coats and jackets. Some shoulders are made strong with epaulettes while others are puffed out by pleating.
Shown: Jessica Simpson Double Flap Pocket Coat

Plaid

Though the most popular plaid piece this Fall is the fitted flannel shirt, plaid is also quite trendy for coats. Be careful with this trend, though–it’s probably a fleeting fad.
Shown: Miss Sixty Plaid Belted Trench

Coats Under $100

Which is your favorite style?