Choose a cosy parka to cocoon yourself in now the weather’s turned properly wintry

There was nothing else to be worn today – well, besides wet gear – other than an oversized, smother-me-up parka. I own two; one that I bought in Topshop in London about 18 years ago when Kate Moss was doing her pirate boots and parka thing (I was impressionable in my 20s), and which has now been relegated to dog-walking days. The other I bought last year in H&M. It reaches down to my calves and has a giant faux-fur trimmed hood that shields me from all of that awful slanted hail and rain we’re subjected to in Ireland. It’s the ultimate bad-weather, bundle-yourself-up-in coat.

If you don’t own such a piece of outerwear, you’re missing a trick because nothing feels so nice when the heavens open than being cocooned in the outdoor equivalent of a duvet. Here are seven to buy now.

I love the contrasting faux fur trim on this coat.

Pocket detail parka, €90 (was €129) at Warehouse

The colour red looks fresh and unexpected when reimagined as outerwear.

Bright red faux fur coat, €155 at River Island

This padded parka looks like the ultimate comforting coat.

Oversized puffa coat, €70 at monki.com

The Topshop Boutique range always offers something different. I love this contrasting leather parka.

Colour-block leather coat, Boutique, €490 at topshop.com

The shape of the hood on this Zara parka looks cool and directional. A drawstring waist means you can create two different silhouettes.

Long water-resistant parka, €79.95 at Zara

This 30-year-anniversary piece from River Island makes a real statement with its beautiful embellished detailing.

RI 30 black embellished hooded coat, €336 at River Island

Cool lace detailing on the sleeves adds a nice point of difference to this Maje jacket.

Hooded coat with lacing, €595 at Maje