The Best Winter Coat For Men

By default, your coat is the first thing a person notices about you, so you’re opening yourself up to a world of judgement just by entering into the seemingly carefree act of choosing which one to wear each day. Fashion Features Editor India Gladstone is breaking it down for you so no matter where you’re heading this winter, you’re guaranteed to be the best dressed in any room.

The tailored overcoat

The tailored overcoat has been the go-to for men of style all over the world for decades – and for good reason. Whether you’re investing in a piece to take your weekday suit up to the next level or looking for something to instantly sharpen up your weekend jeans and T-shirt, a tailored overcoat undoubtedly has a place in every man’s wardrobe. The key? Always make sure it fits you properly and if that doesn’t work off the peg, don’t be afraid to get it tailored to your body shape. If you’re keen to go a little bolder this season, why not try a checked version? And for optimum warmth, always look out for coats made with wool.

The Mac

The macintosh (or Mac, as it’s widely known as today) is undeniably recognisable as being one of the most iconic pieces of menswear in existence, and continues to be a key piece in the wardrobes of the world’s best-dressed men. The mac has a strong history – it was first put into circulation 1824 when was designed as a raincoat made out of rubberised fabric and named after its investor, Charles Macintosh. Today, its use still serves a purpose when it comes to keeping water out, but it has now become equally as stylish as it is practical, making it the perfect investment for those tricky transitional periods of weather.

The double breasted jacket

If you’re looking to instantly smarten up any outfit but want to push the boundaries if you already own a tailored overcoat, then the double-breasted jacket could be exactly what you’re looking for. This slightly bulkier version of a traditional peacoat combines all of the workings of a seriously dapper piece of outerwear (think form, function and style), bringing you the perfect piece for when the temperature dips. Flattering for all body types, it looks equally good when paired with a suit as it does with more a more casual combination such as chinos and knitwear.

The down jacket

Down jackets in all forms have fast become a wardrobe staple for every street-style star in the world. The key is making sure that you’re wearing the right style, with the right outfit. From agilet to a hooded iteration and everything in between, following a here-to-stay trend has never been easier. Whether you opt to layer it underneath an overcoat or choose to wear it on its own, there’s something achingly cool about it– when worn in the right way. Wear with anything from your smartest two-piece to weekend loungewear and we promise you’ll never look back.

The Parka

Not only is the parka a serious life-saver when plummeting temperatures hit hard and fast, but in the past few years it’s also become one of the most sartorially savvy pieces of outerwear a man can own. You’d be wrong to assume that the parka should only be reserved for more casual occasions – all it takes is one look around the streets of Florence during the Pitti menswear shows or New York’s most stylish winter events to prove that it can be worn anywhere, with anything. It is, however, an undoubtedly bulky piece of outerwear, so avoid pairing with thick layers and keep the entire look streamlined with slim-fit pieces. Pick this or a simple down-filled coat for your warmest winter yet.