Bring on the Coats: 7 Outerwear Trends That Ruled the Runways

I live in Scotland, so suffice to say, I spend much of the year feeling pretty cold. It should come as no surprise, then, that I love coats, probably more than the average person. In my opinion, there's nothing chicer than wearing a simple outfit with a perfectly executed, impeccably crafted coat over the top. That is why I place so much importance on making the right coat investments. Of course, my collection of coats already includes classic iterations, such as camel robes, leather trenches and checked double-breasted numbers—outerwear heroes I know I can rely on each and every cold-weather season without fail. Still, no matter how much of a wardrobe classicist I might be, I do think that having a trend-led coat can make literally every other item you own feel bang up to date, thus making it a very efficient way of looking current. So let's talk coat trends, specifically A/W 22 coat trends. 

Of all the coat trends I witnessed on the A/W 22 runways, there are seven that cannot and should not be overlooked. While some are absolutely everlasting and don't feel tied to this specific season, there are a couple of coat trends listed below that might feel intrinsic to 2022. (Here's looking at you, Valentino.) Still, in the 11 years I've spent editing fashion, I've found that coat trends tend to come back around faster than any other garment. So should you decide to invest in even the boldest coat I've outlined below, rest assured it will have serious staying power. 

Without further ado, scroll on to discover the seven noteworthiest and most inspiring coat trends of A/W 22. 

1. TO THE MAX

Style Notes: You might have noticed that designers have an affinity for maxi hemlines this season—floor-grazing skirts and dresses dominated the summer and now, maxi coats are going to be A/W 22's sleekest cover-up option. Beloved by the likes of the Olsen twins, the appeal of maxi coats (specifically tailored versions) is that they always look expensive, no matter how much you spend on them. And you know we're all about looking premium on a budget. 

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2. BIG CAT ENERGY

Style Notes: I'd go as far as to say that leopard print is never out of style, but just like everything, it goes through phases of being in and out of popularity. For A/W 22, there's no question it's in. We saw full leopard 'fits at Giambattista Valli, Michael Kors and Dries Van Noten, to name but a few, with coats, shocker, taking centre stage. Try pairing yours with creamy tones underneath for a rich-and-unbothered moment. That, or go all out with a matching dress, just as top designers suggest. 

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3. BOMBS AWAY

Style Notes: Okay, so I know they're not technically coats, but it would be remiss not to note the impact and influence bomber jackets are having this season. Between Prada's and Sacai's longline versions (which are sort of coats?) and the leather iteration every fashion editor melted over at Loewe, make no mistake—bombers are back!

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4. BARBIE'S WORLD

Style Notes: It's hard to ignore the pink trend that's currently swirling on TikTok right now. Barbiecore, anyone? But way back in February, designers were already showcasing hot-pink coats in their collections in just about every fabrication you can think of, be it satin, leather, bouclé, faux fur or wool. Indeed, the future is bright (pink). 

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5. PONCHO PARTY

Style Notes: There's been a focus on traditional crafts and heritage techniques in fashion lately, which largely manifest in Bohemian-type trends. And for A/W 22, the coat that encapsulates this movement is undoubtedly the poncho and other caped silhouettes. Take your pick between the more archetype knitted textures or take the modern-day route with wool. 

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6. DUVETS FOR DAY

Style Notes: Between the current cost of living and being based on the coast, you know I'm going to live in my padded coat this season for extra warmth. Back again from last winter, XXL puffs are going to be huge once more, with both maxi and cropped styles coming through in the latest collections. Staying curled up in my duvet all day is basically my idea of heaven. 

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7. FAKING IT

Style Notes: When it comes to coat trends, faux fur never really goes away, but it's set to be more prevalent than it has been for a long while in 2022. Designers toyed with a technicolour of teddy coats on the runway, but for longevity, I'd always recommend investing in neutral colourway, such as brown, beige or grey. Having said that, I'm also into the icy shades that stormed at Balmain and Coperni; they're less "Muppet" than, say, the bright pinks and yellows seen elsewhere but still speak to the playful side of fashion. 

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Next Up, Autumn/Winter 2022 Trends: The 15 Fashion Looks You Need to Know About