What coats are suitable for autumn and winter weather?

The approach of autumn and the looming prospect of winter mean many people will now be looking for coats to kit out their seasonal wardrobes. But with such an emphasis being placed on style and design, customers should remember to bear practical considerations in mind when searching for the ideal winter warmers too - favouring styles that can keep you warm without making you feel claustrophobic.

It can be a good idea to start your search for autumn and winter coats before the temperatures drop, as the most popular products and the best deals tend to sell out fast in most high street stores. Searching online can be a great way to find further discounts, and to benefit from a wider range of options than you're limited to in stores.

Among the popular coat styles for the 2010/11 autumn and winter season are cocoon designs, which may only be suitable for people who are comfortable with their body shapes - as these aren't exactly the most figure-hugging options available. Wearing cocoon coats with skinny jeans or slim skirts can help to off-set the coat's bulk, and it's important to ensure that the coat is not so long that it overpowers your entire appearance.

Another enduringly popular coat style for men and women is military fashion, which can look stylish with epaulets and piping as well as offering all the comfort and warmth needed for a British winter. Military coats are a flashier option than most, so you might want to enhance this by wearing gold jewellery and designer shoes.

A newer option that's proving to be a big hit this season is sleeveless coats, which can help to reduce the problem of sweating when leaving the cold behind and stepping into buildings or onto public transport. These womens coats are highly effective for regulating temperature, and are available in a wide range of colours to suit everyone's tastes. Popular colours this year tend towards the understated, and these coats look great in natural hues.

Collarless coats are another good temperature-regulating option, and especially popular with retro lovers. Skinny trousers can compliment the stylish sixties look, and these coats are commonly found in designs such as black and grey tweed. If you're less concerned with making a striking appearance, shaggy coats can also be great choices this winter, which can be accessorised with jewellery to avoid making you appear overly Bohemian.

Clint Starr writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.