With the temperatures dropping and the big “C word” (Christmas!) floating in the air, it’s safe to say that there’s only been one thing on my mind this week: coats. As a self-declared coat fanatic, I pride myself on being able to make most styles, colours, fits and shapes work in my wardrobe, whether that’s a puffer at the weekend, a satin trench on a night out, a classic wool coat for work, or a cropped jacket for special occasions. However, there is one style that I am yet to invest in but that has most certainly caught my eye this season, and that’s a camel coat.
Elegant, timeless and endlessly versatile, the camel coat is largely considered one of the hardest working pieces in one’s wardrobe, so with that in mind, I’ve decided that 2022 is the year I take the plunge and invest in the perfect style. And after seeing camel coats in all iterations from cropped to longline to tailored pop up repeatedly on my Instagram feed and street style stars and celebs this season, I knew this outerwear icon was here to stay.
A guest at London Fashion Week S/S 23 wears a double-breasted camel coat with a tan and tortoiseshell bag.
But unlike black, grey, khaki and cream coats, something about this colour has stopped me in my shopping tracks. Just how will I wear my camel coat? What will it go with in my wardrobe? And can I make it work for every event in my social calendar this autumn and winter? These are the questions I knew I needed to get to the bottom of before I invested in the style, and so to prove to myself—and to you—just how versatile a camel coat can be, I rounded up five outfits that I’ll be reaching for time and time again with the coat as the hero focus.
Scroll down to discover how I’ll be wearing my camel coat this season as well as all the pieces you might need to help re-create the looks.
Style Notes: One of my favourite autumn looks is one that centres around leggings. Comfy yet stylish, they look great paired with knee-high boots (flat or heeled) and an oversized sweater. Layer a relaxed camel coat like this chic, belted COS number over the top for that extra bit of polish before adding jewellery and your favourite handbag.
Did I mention we like stripes over here? This high-street style is just perfect.
Crafted from a wool blend that’s double-faced for extra softness and warmth, this belted coat is well worth investing in.
These Totême leggings have a zipped cuff, so you can wear them done up like above with boots or undone with heels for a night out.
H&M’s premium range is so good this season. These 100% leather boots are sure to last you for years.
Style Notes: When putting togethera look that works for the office, dinner with friends and the weekend, I always start with a midi dress. This floral number is pretty without being too summery thanks to its black base and thick cotton-poplin fabrication, and it’s an easy win when you don’t want to think too much about your outfit. Add your camel coat of choice and suede boots to bring out the pattern on the dress and tie the whole look together.
Be still, my beating heart. I love everything about this pretty yet grown-up floral midi dress. The print? The sleeves? The ruffles? Yes, please.
One of my favourite camel coats is a woollen trench style. This Massimo Dutti fit is so versatile, working just as well over dresses as it will with denim and cosy knits.
This is one of the best crossbody bags I’ve seen on the high street this season. It’s under £100 and is real leather, too.
Zara always impresses me with its boot offering. This designer-esque pair is just beautiful.
Style Notes: A coat you can wear during the day and evening is a worthy investment in my eyes. This oversized, double-breasted style will look so sleek with an all-cream ensemble underneath: Pair a leather midi skirt with a hard-working cable-knit jumper and leather mules. The statement gold earrings help elevate this outfit even further, ensuring you’re ready to go from desk to dinner in no time.
Arket’s knitwear is second to none. I love this chic and elegant cable-knit style.
If you’re not a fan of a belted coat, you needn’t fear. This double-breasted iteration is so stylish and just as timeless.
The high-waisted, A-line shape on this Zara skirt is super flattering.
Great statement earrings like these can instantly take a look from day to night.
Buy now, and love forever.
Style Notes: When you don’t know what to wear, you can’t go wrong with all black. This scarf-style coat lends itself to a more fitted look underneath, so layer it over a simple black roll-neck and tailored trousers. When it comes to the accessories, I’d opt for a sleek belt to break up the top and trousers here. For footwear, chunky boots like the above ensure this look is wet-weather appropriate, but you could easily swap in heels if you want to replicate this look for a night out.
A black roll-neck is a great layering piece. I wear mine under blazers, dresses, oversized shirts and comfy jumpers!
I’m almost certain this is going to sell out soon. Scarf details are really having a moment, and this camel coat puts a sophisticated twist on the trend.
A wide-leg trouser is a wardrobe staple. Wear these with shirts, blazers and knitwear.
The gold hardware and contrast stitching on this designer belt help add a luxe touch to this simple look.
I just know I’ll get so much wear out of these boots thanks to the temperamental British weather.
Style Notes: Camel coats work just as well as part of a casual look as they do for smarter takes. This outfit is perfect for the weekend: relaxed denim (I always love a lighter wash with camel personally), a grey marl sweatshirt, trainers and a textured camel coat. Add a tote bag, and you’re ready to go!
Grey sweatshirts are staples in my wardrobe all year round. I like to layer up mine in winter under coats, blazers or gilets before wearing one over my shoulders with a dress come summer.
Put a contemporary twist on the classic by opting for this textured camel coat.
These are such a flattering fit.
These sustainable trainers are one of the fashion set’s favourite pairs.
A canvas shopper is such a practical choice whether you use it for shopping, your laptop or travel essentials.
