Autumn rain can make getting dressed feel like a bit of a guessing game. A good coat needs to keep you dry, work over your usual layers and still feel like something you want to wear every day. That last part can be tricky if you find that some coats swallow your figure - something I tend to struggle with.
But it's not all doom and gloom like the weather. There's a solution, and it comes in the form of a cinch waist jackets, specifically, ones with check detailing. Zara released a brilliant version that ticks all the boxes earlier this year, which, in one shopping trip down Oxford Street I spotted at least 10 people sporting the coat. No surprise then, that the style has started to sell out, but if you're a size XS, Medium or XL, you can still shop - for now.
But what makes this jacket so appealing? Well, first of all, it turns the typically frumpy rain jacket into something especially stylish. Tapping into the heritage charm that has been everywhere this season (which, could, be partially thanks to Claudia Winkleman's Traitors outfits) it's more than just a raincoat, it's something that looks very fashionable.
But the raincoat isn't just better than your ordinary waterproof because of its check pattern. It also comes down to practicality. Its adjustable waistband you far more shape than the average rain jacket, nipping you and fitting as well as your favourite subtly cinched blazer or suede belted coat.
Of course, Zara isn't the only high street favourite that has clocked onto how brilliant this silhouette and style is. Similar styles have started to conjure up across other high street favourites, from J D Williams to River Island and perhaps the genius behind the original style: Damson Madder (their Liu raincoat sells out every single time it's restocked, available in two checked designs and a colour drenched burgundy version).
Styling is simple, especially if practicality is at play (i.e. not wanting to end up soaked after your commute to and from work. Wear your jacket with jeans and boots for an easy weekend look, or throw it over a knit and tailored trousers when you start to think the temperature is truly dipping.
Whether you prefer a classic monochrome check or a version of the criss cross patterned jacket in a far bolder colour, a checked cinch waist jacket is a versatile addition to your autumn wardrobe. And winter - if you layer correctly.
Shop below
Damson Madder Liu Shower Proof Raincoat - Elderberry Check
River Island Petite Brown Check Funnel Neck Parka Jacket
JD Williams Cinched Waist Barn Jacket
Puffit STM-TEX™ Classic Full Zip Rain Jacket
Damson Madder Matilda Raincoat
