Three BB: Autumn Series #4

So sadly, this will be the last of my Autumn Series given that it turns December tomorrow (bring on Xmas!), and to end I thought the perfect transition post would be one on what I would say is the most important autumn/winter wardrobe piece - the coat. The high street has on offer a huge selection of different styles to fall in love with, but obviously the tricky bit is to get one which fits well, is stylish and works with your entire wardrobe.

2015 brings us the fashion of the 40's which means bohemian-vibe chequered patterns and capes brought up to date with faux fur hoods and leather trims. Quilted, duvet-style linings, long leather designs and ribbed, zip-up jackets are also new, key pieces to add to the season. But there's no doubt traditional classics such as the camel coat, military style trenches and the ultimate parka are timeless pieces which look stunning no matter what. It's impossible to cover everything, so I've carefully whittled it down to a few of my all time favourite styles and summed them up below to help you make that all important purchase. Or, if you're a little crazy like me, you can buy 5 coats at once and return the ones which don't quite work (this is not advised for the sake of your bank account!)

winter fashion - knits and long coats:

1. The Camel Coat

There's not an investment more worthy than a classic camel jacket. Not only will it stay looking on trend for years to come, but it is also one of those super versatile pieces you can throw on with literally any outfit and for any occasion for instant class. The high street is all over this game this year and I am seeing a fantastic selection from the likes of Zara, Mango and Topshop to name a few. The focus is on new, exciting shades of which we are seeing more creamier versions of camel on top of masculine shapes and large lapels.

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For that added editorial elegance work the monotone outfit and drape the coat over your shoulders.

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I love mixing denim with camel, it's just a beautiful combination and looks young and energetic. Pair with jeans and a cosy jumper (click here for inspiration) too for those rushed, last minute mornings.

If you can get me to want to wear orange, that is quite an achievement. Gorgeous coat. #trudes:

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If you're short like me, I would look for a short peacoat just stopping below the hip. You don't want to be drowned out by too much fabric and the great thing about a shorter coat is that it can also create the illusion of longer legs.

Otherwise, if you have been blessed with long legs, embrace your ability to wear longer lengths like below.

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2. Fur or teddy?

There's a new wave of fuzzy love all over the runway, with reversed shearling becoming the new solution to the ever colder nights. The key, I think, to pulling this trend off is to go for subtle greys and clays which give a clean purity. Fuzz can be quite bulky, so make sure what you wear underneath is tight otherwise you'll end up looking bigger than you are. More importantly, don't go overboard with the fuzziness either or you'll end up looking like Chewbacca!

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The hype with faux fur is still also very much around with patchwork elements being the newest twist.

Navy felt wide brim with a tan band. Oh Jules.:

sincerelyjules.com

3. Red Riding Hood Capes

I quite recently bought a cape (view) and it's been one of my favourite buys ever since. It's one of those statement pieces you have to purchase once in your lifetime and I do secretly feel a bit like a super hero wearing it (shh don't tell anyone I said that). Whether you go for a capelet, a more tailored version, or the longer cape, the most complimenting item you can pair it with has to be knee high boots or knee high socks. I think fur hooded capes can look a little childish, so I much prefer the collarless, sharper versions out there.

vogue.co.uk

Of course she has it... New York - July 29 2014 Olivia Palermo wore a personalised Burberry Prorsum cape and Stuart Weitzman suede boots.:

vogue.co.uk

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It can be quite difficult to assemble outfits to go with capes because you have to coordinate your jumper sleeves to the cape which might not match whatever else you're wearing. If you're struggling to find one which matches my biggest tip would be to buy a pair of satin or leather gloves and wear over your sleeves every time to avoid the problem altogether.

4. Tweed and Plaid

Heritage fabrics are the one to watch. Combat the darker nights with these bright, textured wardrobe winners whether it be houndstooth, herringbone or plain tweed. Pair with clashing patterns, plaid, fur or even leather to create an interesting combination.