6 Spring Coats That Will Make Outdoor Dining So Much Better

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(Image credit: Monikh)

Several weeks after restaurants and pubs have reopened, the novelty of eating a meal that doesn't end with a pile of washing up still hasn't worn off. However, al fresco dining in the UK does have its challenges. There's the risk of a soggy, rained-on main course, napkins flying everywhere and the non-stop shivering. By May, we'd usually hope to have discarded all additional layers and started to wear our high-summer wardrobes, but the current weather and restrictions mean you're more likely to be wearing a puffer coat than pair of sandals. 

Getting dressed properly has been an adjustment since the end of lockdown, meaning we have been inundated with questions about what to wear to picnics, pubs and park dates. As the forecast is looking a little grim, we've had many asking about how to stay warm when eating outside. If you're hoping to retire your duvet coat, we've listed six spring coats and jackets that will come in handy for a summer of outdoor dining. 

1. Light Quilted Coat

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(Image credit: Basicstouch)

Many of us lived in duvet coats this winter, and there are lots of beautiful lighter quilted spring coats around. The Sea patchwork coat below is a standout style. 

2. Classic Trench Coat

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(Image credit: Smythsisters)

A trench coat will forever be a spring staple, but the rainproof quality makes it particularly helpful for any outdoor plans. If you opt for a slightly oversize silhouette, you can layer knitwear underneath. 

3. Suede Jacket

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(Image credit: Bubblyaquarius)

The suede jacket is another spring favourite and a handy layering piece, as you can wear it underneath a quilted or wool coat. 

4. Black Blazer

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(Image credit: LucyWilliams02)

We aren't in the business of telling people exactly what they should or shouldn't wear. However, a black blazer is an item that is useful whatever your personal style is. 

5. Black Wool Coat

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(Image credit: ShotfromtheStreet)

Yes, a thick wool coat is still essential for spring in the UK. The below Totême coat is thick enough to wear in winter, too. 

6. Shacket

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(Image credit: Frannfyne)

The shacket is a popular choice for spring and handy for those warmer days when you can go without a coat but want something in-between.

Next up, what to wear to a pub.

Emma Spedding
Freelance Fashion Editor

Emma is a freelance fashion editor with over 15 years experience in industry, having worked at The Telegraph, Grazia and, most recently, British Vogue. Emma was part of the founding team of Who What Wear UK, where she worked for six years as Deputy Editor and then Editor—helping shape the team into what it is today is one of the biggest privileges of her career and she will always see herself as a Who What Wear girl, contributing to both the US and UK sites. Whether she's writing about runway trends or spotlighting emerging brands, she aims to write about fashion in a way that is democratic and doesn't promote over consumption.