It’s time: 10 winter coats to buy now or regret later

Stop holding onto those summer cover-ups – the time has come to embrace the winter coat

It’s been threatening, looming over us since the fluke Indian summer of early September, and now, it’s time to face the music. Winter is coming, and it’s time to invest in this year’s coat.

A winter coat is a yearly investment that should withstand the full force of Irish winter – rain, wind, bitter cold, and even unexplained sun and warmth. Look out for great materials – a wool blend is always a good shout – and a timeless design with a twist. A fur coat in a fun colour, a trench silhouette in vinyl or faux leather, or an unexpected pattern on a warm wool piece.

Shackets are huge this year, and they’re the perfect transitional piece to layer depending on the temperature. But if a lighter piece just isn’t cutting it, go for something longer and thicker. Remember that you can always jazz up a plainer coat with winter accessories – I have a well-worn but well-loved collection of berets and scarves that I can always count on to complete a winter look.

IMAGE loves…

Penny Jacket, €435.77 from Charlotte Simone

Wool-blend shacket, €99.99 from H&M

Brown Liquid Vinyl Trench, €110 from Topshop

Barbara gathered faux fur coat, now €349 from Shrimps

Checked oversize coat, €99.99 from Mango

Wool-blend check coat, €59.95 from Zara

Teddy denim oversized jacket, €445 from Ganni

Imitation leather trenchcoat, €79.99 from H&M

Bright Pink Boucle Trench, €110 from Topshop

Wide-Fit Wool Boucle Coat, €250 from Arket

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