Men’s Essential Guide to Coats and Jackets

Your outerwear is the first thing people see - when you enter a room or walk down the street - which is why you need to choose a style that works for you and for the season.

With this in mind, here is an essential guide to coats and jackets, taking a look at the best styles for different occasions and temperatures…

Work

If you wear a suit to the office you don’t want to ruin the look with a casual coat worn over the top, which is why a pea coat is an ideal choice. These structured, formal jacket styles look great over smart trousers and a shirt. Button them all the way to the top so you still stay warm and they also usually feature stiff, high collars that are ideal for when you’ve forgotten your scarf. The pea coat is a great extension of your smart suit blazer.

Date night

Date night calls for something a little edgier – sexier, even – and a bomber jacket is perfect for creating this vibe. When buying a bomber jacket look for a padded design to keep you warm while walking to your restaurant and also a strong zip to keep everything in place. A fur collar adds a little edge but is also great for creating that cool, high flying, aviator vibe.

Winter walks

Whether you’re heading out with the dog in tow or taking a romantic stroll around Shaw Forest Park on a crisp winter morning, you’re going to need a jacket that keeps you warm. Parka jackets are a great option - not only are they padded for maximum comfort they usually feature large, waterproof hoods with warm fur linings.

Weekend shopping

Heading down to the outlet village at the weekend? Then you need a lightweight jacket that works when moving between stores and going inside and outside the shopping centre. A men’s leather jacket is a great choice and can be found in most stores all year round, be sure to look for a style with a structured fit that enhances your shoulders and chest. Opt for one of these to look cool but stay warm, while trawling the shops.

Drinks on a Friday night

Heading down to the pub with a couple of mates after work? You’re going to need a jacket that looks good, won’t make you sweat in the crowds and that can keep you relatively warm on the walk home. A bomber jacket is a good call again or you could opt for a lightweight, military jacket featuring strong buttons, plenty of pockets and a high, zip collar to keep the cold out. Choose a khaki colour too that works with dark blue or even black skinny jeans, and finish off with a knitted hat.

Whatever the occasion, there’s a jacket that matches. Take your pick from this guide and stay on trend come rain or shine when your out and about town.