A great wool coat is a timeless wardrobe staple. Whether worn over denim or layered over evening wear, the enduring appeal of wool outerwear is its ability to smarten up almost any outfit. From longline, belted styles to the classic double-breasted peacoat, a wool coat will always add a polished finishing touch, but it will also see you through autumn and chilly winters, when wrapping up in style is essential.
With multiple silhouettes, as well as a range of colours and prints, on offer, choosing the right wool coat for you can be overwhelming. After all, this is a piece you'll want to wear for seasons to come.
One of the key things to consider is the fabric itself. Wool should provide more than heat insulation – this material is also breathable, long-lasting and water resistant, so it's worth checking if a coat is 100 per cent wool or made from a wool blend. (To reap the benefits, aim for over 50 per cent wool, or look to compositions that incorporate other warming fabrics like cashmere). As for the provenance, keep an eye out for wool sourced under the Responsible Wool Standard guidelines or choose pieces made from recycled wool, which extends the life of this raw material.
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The weaving technique can also impact quality. Double-faced wool uses two sides of fabric that are woven together to create a single piece looks the same on both sides. This means that a lining isn't required, resulting in an elegant, fluid design.
Whatever wool coat type you're looking to invest in, you'll know you're picking the right style if you can imagine it fitting with existing pieces in your wardrobe. From Ralph Lauren and MaxMara to high street buys from Arket and Jigsaw, below we round up the best wool coats that will serve you this winter and beyond.
Scarf coats are in high demand this autumn/winter season, featuring, as the name suggests, built-in scarves for extra warmth and practicality. But beyond being a sensible winter staple, this scarf coat from Toteme will preside as a statement piece in your wardrobe, featuring wool-blend bouclé with a fringed scarf and the brand's signature chain stitching.
Combining her skill for sharp tailoring with a heritage silhouette, Victoria Beckham has reinvented the classic trench coat with this modern iteration. Fabricated with 100 per cent wool, the charcoal trench features deep utility-style pockets, with oversized touches to the collar and epaulettes, and a detachable belted waist.
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A master when it comes to flattering silhouettes, this A-line wool coat from Alaïa features a cinched waist and notched lapels, and double-faced virgin wool to ensure enduring quality and a timeless piece that you'll reach for year after year.
Channel your highland spirit in this checked cape-style coat from Chloé. Constructed from a wool-blend flannel and finished with a leather trim and lapel, the cut of this coat lends to its unique, fluid movement when worn.
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Playing with exaggerated silhouettes, Le 17 Septembre's buttery ivory coat serves to add an element of structure to any outfit. It's composed of 80 per cent wool and features balloon sleeves with a dropped shoulder for a comfortable yet elevated piece.
Marant Étoile's 'Lexana' coat has a timeless silhouette that will last for seasons to come. Made from a wool blend, this double-breasted design in an easy-to-wear grey will elevate any outfit.
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A classic camel coat offers both elegance and versatility. This unstructured style from Anine Bing is perfect for layering over everything from jeans to evening dresses. Plus, it's super soft thanks to the wool and cashmere blend.
An autumnal alternative to black or navy, this chocolate brown coat from Arket has a striking shawl collar and is made from a double-faced wool blend. The belt keeps it relaxed but elegant.
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The best trench coats are both functional and effortless, and this 100 per cent wool design from Ralph Lauren ticks both boxes. The check print also adds a heritage look and feel that will work for everything from the office to a weekend away.
When it comes to warding off the winter chill, nothing beats the cosy appeal of oversized outerwear. Cos' double-breasted style, made from responsibly sourced wool, is perfect for layering over even the chunkiest of knits. It's also available in grey.
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MaxMara's quality wool coats are loved for their ability to transform an outfit and this crimson shade promises to do just that. Crafted from 100 per cent virgin wool – which means it hasn't been used or processed before – this ageless style will last for years to come making it well worth the investment.
The short, double-breasted shaping of a peacoat makes it one of the best everyday coat options out there. This classic black version from Tory Burch features gold buttons and dropped shoulders for a more relaxed take on the style. A great addition to your collection of wardrobe staples.
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Fans of Jigsaw's quality outerwear will be happy to hear the brand's Maxi City Coat is back this season. Available in charcoal, black and chocolate brown, this longline style is made from a soft brushed wool with a recycled nylon lining. Simple and sophisticated, it's a true classic.
With its padded shoulders, pointed lapels and maxi length, Stella McCartney's take on a classic camel coat is pure sophistication. It's crafted from 100 per cent camel wool and the structured silhouette makes it the ideal piece to wear with tailoring.
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We love the icy blue colour of this wool and cashmere blend coat from Alberta Ferretti. Wear this mid-length design with wide-leg trousers and a crisp white shirt for a smart workwear look.
Is there anything more elegant than a white winter coat? This robe-like design from Filippa K is all about the finer details, from the double-faced brushed wool and cashmere blend to the hand-stitched edges. It's also available in four (more practical) colours.
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Another great check print option, this double-breasted style is made from 100 per cent recycled wool. The padded shoulders and gold buttons give it a preppy feel. Just add a pair of penny loafers.
If you're looking for a shorter coat length, this wrap style from Parisian label Maje will instantly add a polished finish to any outfit. Pair it with a neutral rollneck and your favourite jeans for a chic weekend look.
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This monochrome houndstooth print style is an easy way to introduce some subtle print into your wardrobe. It has a longer mid-calf length making it a sensible choice when it comes to wrapping up this winter.
Made from double-faced wool, this relaxed style from Amsterdam-based branad Róhe is perfect for layering over evening wear on chilly evenings out.