If you woke up to sunshine this morning and felt the urge to ditch your go-to outerwear staples, you’re not alone. But don’t retire stylish coats and jackets just yet - anyone who’s spent more than five minutes in the UK knows how mercurial the forecast can be.
So, consider this your cue to invest in a lightweight coat, something that's chic yet practical, and will protect you from the inevitable spring showers.
While the obvious rain-ready choice is typically a trench coat, there’s a new style set to dominate spring wardrobes this year. The piece in question? The car coat, the sister staple to the classic trench, cut slightly shorter and usually falling to a neat mid-length. Unsurprisingly, Marks and Spencers have a brilliant version for £70.
Crafted from 100% cotton, this pared back yet sophisticated car coat is incredibly versatile. Smart enough to elevate any look, but also relaxed enough for everyday wear, the car coat will become the hardest working workhorse in your outerwear rotation, second to your favourite cashmere scarf.
Available in two hues: a light caramel and a muted grey, there's plenty of styling opportunities for both versions of the coat. For day to day wear, pair with indigo or sleek black jeans, a cosy knit or boxy white tee, and retro trainers.
And for more formal occasions? Layer it over a pair of leather trousers with a polka dot blouse teamed with a pair of ageless kitten heels.
Alternatively, shop the newest suede brown iteration below, a stylish take on the classic cotton material.
