A stylish 2-in-1 jacket is autumn's smartest buy and Next's £74 checked puffer transforms into a gilet

After last year's very long winter, I told my colleague in March that I wanted to burn my puffer coat, as I'd been wearing it every day for about six months.

I didn't obviously. I cleaned it and put it away knowing that I'd be pulling it out of the wardrobe again the minute temperatures dropped. Because as much as I love all of the new-season faux-fur and blanket coats, when it's really cold, nothing beats a puffer. They're so lightweight (a faux fur can feel like you're carrying a small toddler around with you all day), waterproof and warm.

And now you can add versatile to the list because Next just released a 2-in-1 puffer jacket that's not only in the print of the season, but it has zip-off sleeves for added wardrobe usefulness.

Next Yellow/Blue Check Short Puffer Jacket with Removable Sleeves

£74 at Next

It’s exactly what you need at this time of year. Chilly October mornings have us shivering en route to the office, so a puffer jacket is ideal. But by lunchtime, it can feel like overkill, which is exactly why the idea of removable sleeves is so appealing. Simply zip them off and the problem is solved.

The (very Clueless-coded) tartan print will brighten up your cold weather wardrobe – we'd keep everything else pared back – and the pop of colour plus the 2-in-1 design mean you're less likely to be bored of it come March.

The practical-meets-pretty details don’t stop there either. The jacket also boasts one of the season’s most coveted features: a funnel-neck collar to keep the wind and rain out.

Plus, it comes in a wide range of sizes, from extra-small to extra-extra large. Just keep the rest of your outfit simple as this jacket does the heavy lifting. We're thinking your favourite jeans and a classic white tee.

If the yellow tartan print isn't for you, though, we've found three more versatile styles to help you stay warm and dry when/if El Nino hits and only a puffer coat will do. Add some ankle welly boots, your favourite jeans and a cosy knit.