Written by Rakelle Maurici in Essentials on the 3rd December 2015

A good coat can be somewhat hard to find - it's something that we all know we'll be wearing a lot throughout the winter months so it’s crucial to make sure we pick the right one. This includes colours, the right style for the rest of your wardrobe, and also one that will keep us the warmest. Here are our top choices for this winter season. 

Duffle 

This type of coat (pictured above) is less formal than other button up styles and is something suited more for the weekends. This is where you can have more fun and throw in more colours to your outfit too. While this coat works well in earthy tones, you can also go for subtle patterns and bolder colours to truly make a statement. The coat is often hooded to keep you dry too. Team with jeans, boots, a polo or flannel shirt for a laid-back look.

Double Breasted Overcoat 

Our most trustworthy tailored coat is here to stay. This coat is perfect for the office, worn over a suit or just with a shirt and sweater. Generally the coat gives a nice v-shape opening to show off your shirt and tie combination as well as being able to tuck a wool scarf in to add colour, texture and warmth to your outfit too. The coat is more popular in black, grey and navy - however you can be adventurous by opting for camel (the colour of the season), or brighten up a dark suit with maroon or green.

Single Breasted Overcoat 

If you do want this coat to look smart go for a shawl collar to show off your shirt and tie under. Alternatively, brighten it up with a wool scarf. The funnel collar option is great if you want something more closed and simple. A great styling tip for wearing either the single or double breasted coat is 'if you're short don’t choose a coat that is too long' - either above the knee or as far as half way down the calf - if they lie too long you will look shorter.

Pea Coat 

This coat is the shorter side of smart coats. A pea coat is a great choice for daily wear without looking too smart or over-dressed due to its length. It has a slight military style, however it is probably one of the most versatile of the smarter coats. It is best worn buttoned to show off the double breasted finish and be sure to leave the bottom button undone. Wear it with a simple roll neck jumper, jeans and boots. Since this jacket is on the shorter side you can also be a little braver with the colour. Go for something slightly brighter like a maroon or just play it safe with navy.

Shearling 

A style which was first introduced back in the 1970s - yes something our older relatives probably once wore. This style was brought back into our beloved stores earlier this year following fashion week trends. It is commonly seen in a suede (and occasionally leather) with a belted hem and fur collar - aviator style. This style is perfect for keeping warm and layering over a simple white t-shirt and jeans combo, or throw over a sweater and shirt combination with lace up boots.

Parka 

The casual Parka coat will certainly keep you warm as they have a thick lining - either with padding or sheepskin and a fur collar hood, shielding you from any of those cold wintery mornings defrosting your car. For a true British look, add a checked shirt, distressed jeans and desert boots. Common colours for the Parka are khaki green or navy - but you could also try something in maroon or a lighter tone of beige or grey.

Quilted 

Taken from our European counterparts, the short quilted coat is a smart-casual alternative for a weekend away. They aren’t overly bulky and so are rather easy to pack. Styling this kind of jacket is easy, just keep other clothes in your outfit slim fitting e.g. slim fit jeans or slim chinos with chukka boots or casual lace up trainers. Throw over a small wool scarf for extra warmth.

Bomber 

Usually this coat comes in trusty leathers and suedes. The bomber is an easy to wear style for everyday use. While leather is the most popular choice you can also buy something a little more casual such as a varsity jacket. Style it over an oxford shirt at the weekends or even with a tie and chinos for a smarter look.

Contrasting Collar 

Inspired by the shearling jacket, this coat is for an acquired taste. The coat is commonly seen with a fur collar against wool, leather, suede or denim. Colour combinations are usually black, brown, navy or tan leather with cream fur or black with fur. If you like statement pieces, a contrasting collar is certainly a great option - they're also very versatile.

Gilet 

There's often disagreements when it comes to wearing a Gilet. At one side of the argument they were always seen as too casual, sporty and somewhat puffy for everyday wear. But now we're slowly seeing smarter designs available that can work with a shirt and tie on the way to the office. Wear with a chunky knit and a flannel shirt for warmth during winter. They are a great way to add texture and layers to your outfit whilst keeping your arms free for practicality.

We pick out the best men's winter coats for winter 2015 in this guide to 10 Essential Winter Coat Styles, featuring the Duffle, Parker, Shearling and more.