These 5 Autumn Coat Trends Look So Much Better Second-Hand

Welcome to my latest edition of "yes, you can buy this season's trends second-hand and look better than if you bought them new." (Catchy, right?) This week, I'm focusing on coat trends, a category that, thanks to my lifelong addiction to outwear, has become a bit of an area of expertise for me. I also believe that it is one of the easiest ways to dip your toe into vintage shopping.

Why? Well, the sizing is typically easier to navigate than it is for trousers or tops. (If in doubt, I recommend sizing up, as you can always get something tailored). Coats and jackets also tend to age better than less sturdy items of clothing, both in terms of fabric and construction but also in regards to trends. I find that most autumn/winter silhouettes come back year after year. Finally, it's a category that lends itself to unisex dressing, and it's worth checking out both men's and women's categories for items like blazers, trenches and bomber jackets. More options is never a bad thing, right?

To get you started on your pre-loved journey, I've rounded up five coat trends that are inspired by this season's runways (although, ironically, most of the designers have been inspired by vintage styles) and look so much better second-hand, in my opinion. You've got army surplus liner jackets that are a dead ringer for Ganni's and The Frankie Shop's quilted styles, affordable leather coats for a Proenza Schouler–inspired look and a good dose of colour and print via the statement blazer trends. But don't take my word for it. Scroll down to see and shop my complete edit.

Quilted Coats

Style Notes: The moment I saw an army surplus liner jacket in a vintage store, I couldn't get over how much it looked like The Frankie Shop and Ganni iterations that had been proliferating over the last 12 months. Spotted on the runway of Raf Simons and Miu Miu, this cosy trend is a more refined iteration on last year's XXL puffer and is the perfect layering tool when the mercury drops.

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Tailored Coats

Style Notes: I use the word "trend" lightly here, as trench coats never really go out of style, but I loved how Celine layered up its traditional trenches with casual denim and zip-up hoodies on its A/W 21 runway. I plan on re-creating the look with one of the below second-hand beauties. My top tip? Opt for an oversized style for added drama.

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Statement Blazers

Style Notes: I know I'm creating a second-hand shopping edit inspired by runway looks, but really, the statement-blazer trend owes its origins to vintage styles. The above Emporio Armani jacket packs plenty of '80s power-dressing energy, and you can emulate the vibe with everything from tartan prints to eye-popping colourways. 

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Leather Coats

Style Notes: This season's leather-coat trend can be seriously expensive if you buy designer (Proenza Schouler's A/W 21 black iteration is the dream), but it also might look a little flimsy on the high street. Vintage is the obvious answer for high-quality finishes without the four-figure price tag. Whether you opt for a '70s longline style or a classic '90s boxy jacket, this is a look that is sure to elevate your autumn basics. 

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Shearling Coats

Style Notes: The shearling has been a mainstay in the jacket hall of fame for decades now (thank you, ACNE), and if this season's runway looks are anything to go by, it isn't getting old any time soon. Chloé's A/W 21 shearling coat gave an avant-garde update to the classic aviator style with a dramatic zip-off section. Second-hand, you'll find both '70s button-down styles and cropped aviators in abundance. This is a cosy, chic and time-tested trend.

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Up Next: How to Find the Best Vintage Pieces, According to a Second-Hand Expert