We’re nearing the end of summer, and the incoming autumn chill is setting in. Here at Stylist, we’re loving the new-found need for jackets and the chance to wear layers again. For autumn is a fashion lover’s friend, and its arrival heralds the opportunity to pick up a few key pieces to update your new season wardrobe and last you until spring breaks. 

While a proper winter coat is likely the last thing on your shopping list this September — chances are, you’ll be stocking up on knits, boots and blazers first – now is the time to start looking for that trusted cold-weather staple, when all the new season styles are dropping into stores. Leave it until it’s actually cold, and you’ll have left it too late my friend. 

Plus, shopping now means you’ll get the best pick of everything in stores, before all the sizes have been picked through and before this season’s best-sellers no doubt sell out. To help save time — and to get you in the mood for coats — we’ve compiled the best picks out there on the high street right now, because a winter coat really needn’t cost the earth. 

Keep scrolling for the creme de la creme of the high street. 

1. & Other Stories

This & Other Stories camel overcoat is one of the most versatile out there on the market for autumn — it’s crafted from wool so is warming, but the shorter length and blazer-style cut makes it look lightweight so it won’t overwhelm trans-seasonal outfits. 

Relaxed wool blend coat, £165, & Other Stories

2. Cos

It rains a lot in the UK, did you know…? That’s why a wet weather coat is, while often overlooked, an absolute essential. Thankfully, Cos have given us a reason to look forward to rainy days — this fully waterproof navy parka has a funnel neckline and a boxy fit. In other words, it’s super chic. 

Waterproof hooded raincoat, £190, Cos

3. River Island

Within two days of autumn hitting, River Island had sold over 250 units of this coat; get it before it goes. Called the Villanelle after our favourite trained assassin, the faux fur sleeves and detachable collar give it an air of old school glamour, while underneath the fuzz, it’s a simple, woollen trench. 

Beige Villanelle coat, £95, River Island

4. Zara

Might this just be the most covetable trench coat around? This beige Zara coat is elongated to hit past mid calf, for a super chic silhouette — the flap front pockets and distinct lack of belt update this classic style into a trench that feels very modern. Wear it with basically everything. 

Beige trench coat, £95.99, Zara

5. Warehouse

Uber snuggly but surprisingly lightweight, this fluffy teddy coat from Warehouse is an ideal choice for the falling autumn temperatures. 

Wear with a floral midi dress and it looks 60s bohemian; team with a tailored trousers and it looks distinctly Parisian. We love this conker colour, but it also comes in a versatile black. 

Fluffy coat, £89, Warehouse

6. Topshop

A seamless blend of classic country and classic chic, this quilted trench coat from Topshop is warmer than traditional cotton twill versions, with snuggly padding to keep you cosy. We love the double-breasted fastening and midi length; best worn with trousers and a chunky jumper underneath. 

Topshop waist-tie trench, £95, Selfridge’s

7. H&M

This military-style greatcoat is one of the most timeless coats on the high street at the moment. Inspired by the coats worn by army officers, the longer length, A-line cut and clean silhouette will last you for seasons to come. Plus, the deep khaki hue is the perfect shade to wear with chocolate browns, tans and deep reds. We love. 

Knee length wool coat, £99.99, H&M

8. Marks and Spencer

Plaid aside, pattern isn’t something we often see on a winter coat, so this leopard coat from Marks and Spencer is a refreshing change. In a slim-fitting elongated cut, this coat would look perfect teamed with jeans, boots and a sweater for a chic yet simple everyday look. 

Leopard coat, £79, Marks and Spencer

9. Next

This textured coat has got us clamouring for colder days. In a nostalgic duffle silhouette with button detailing, this hooded coat comes in summer’s must-wear off-white hue, which is set to carry on through to autumn if the catwalks are anything to go by. Wear with a tonal sweater underneath. 

Duffle coat, £68, Next

10. Labelmix

Labelmix — which partners with our favourite designer brands to bring luxury styles to the high street at a more affordable cost — is our go-to for investment pieces that don’t break the bank. This colourful plaid overcoat by Mix/King & Tuckfield is a dream, with super wide lapels and a belted waist that makes it feel like a really chic dressing gown. In a good way. 

Mix/King & Tuckfield coat, £225, Next