6 Spring Coats That Will Make Outdoor Dining So Much Better
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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.
-
How Everyone Will Be Wearing Their Non–Skinny Jeans This Spring
Here's your outfit inspiration.
By Michelle Scanga
-
Suddenly, All The Row-Style Girls Are Breaking This Fashion Rule
And you should, too.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Warning: You'll Regret Not Buying This 2025 Alternative If You Get a Basic Trench Instead
Guaranteed.
By Eliza Huber
-
I'm a Professional Shopper—These Are the 3 Best Categories From the Nordstrom Winter Sale
These chic pieces are selling out fast.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
The Coolest Legging and Bike Shorts Outfits This Spring Will Feature This Affordable Trend
Hailey Bieber got the memo.
By Allyson Payer
-
These 30 Incredibly Chic Picks From the Nordstrom Winter Sale Scream Cool Girl
Time to up your fashion game.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
We're Fashion Editors—Everything We Saw, Wore, Did, and Ate During NYFW
Let's dive in.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
Jenna Lyons's World: Her Go-To Red Lipstick, Her Latest Eyewear Collab, and the J.Crew Pieces She Still Wears Today
A true fashion icon.
By Judith Jones