When it comes to your wardrobe, it's unlikely a vinyl coat will be the first thing that comes to mind. Arguably one of the boldest choices for the autumn/winter/spring season, this coat can take you through everything from the on-and-off rain showers to a fresh afternoon in spring. Plus, if you hadn't noticed, London Fashion Week was flooded with choices of fashion-goers in their best coats.
Making for some excellent catwalk moments as well as some surprise celebrity sightings, street style was well and truly back, big time. And there happened to be one style of coat dominating show-goers' wardrobes. In all colours of the rainbow, with a trim on a shearling coat, it was the vinyl jacket that we kept seeing again and again. From super glossy styles to colour block leather trench coats, they were worn with jeans and dresses.
Happily, one can find all manner of vinyl coats in stores now, on the high street and from some of your favourite designers. The beauty of them is, as LFW proved, that you can layer up underneath them when the weather is really bad for an appropriate autumn coat but they're lightweight enough to wear in spring. There were a couple of particularly recognisable styles, including Baum und Pferdgarten's Insta-famous coat.
So, thank you street style. We can now all brave the elements in our best vinyl coats that will actually stand the test of the British weather. Here's our edit of favourites still available to buy that you can wear from day to night.
SHOP: The Best Vinyl Coats
Editor's Choice
Kitri studiokitristudio.com
If you're not already familiar with Kitri's collection of vinyl coats, get to know. The brand has a selection of oh-so-chic choices that will take you from season to season, including this Kitri Simone Black Vinyl Coat. Vintage-inspired with a relaxed fit, the removable faux-fur collar and cuffs provide a touch of luxury and adaptability, ensuring it's the coat you'll cherish and wear endlessly.
the hutwww.thehut.com
If you want to go all-out with a vinyl coat, look to the Never Fully Dressed Metallic Vegan Leather Trench Coat, which is sure to make a statement. Metalic sure is back in, after all.
coggleswww.coggles.com
Cool but casual is what this Stand Studio Women's Kali Coat gives off. If you're looking for a vinyl coat that is both bold as it is functional, you'll find that in this button-up classic coat in powder purple.
guesswww.guess.eu
Featuring a shirt collar, long sleeves, regular fit, and chic press studs, this Guess Patent Faux Leather Jacket is made for those who want an easy transitional jacket. Shorter than the traditional longline vinyl coat, this one's great to throw on in a moment's notice.
matches fashionwww.matchesfashion.com
One way to up the vinyl coat? Buy it as a puffer jacket, like with this Proenza Schouler White Label Wrap-Front Quilted Pu Coat. Made to look stylish in even the coldest of weather, this will make you look ultra-sleek.
free peoplewww.freepeople.com
We The Free Clarkie Jacket is a classic, slightly cropped fit with vegan leather to add texture. Featuring a staple collar, zip-front closure, and meticulous seaming, it's the timeless go-to layer for every season. Plus, this will even take you through spring and summer because it's so light.
selfridgeswww.selfridges.com
Bomber jackets simply never go out of fashion. If you want something that's not too over the top, this IKKS Straight-Fit High-Collar Vinyl Bomber Jacket will keep you comfortable It will go with almost every outfit.
What Is A Vinyl Coat?
The clue's in the name for this coat, in that it's typically made out of the synthetic material vinyl. Also known as faux leather and PU, you'll find this material looking like a glossy, plastic-like appearance. This is what makes the material so unique - when it's both functional and stylish.
But, there's not just one vinyl coat that you can get. Oh no, these coats come in various styles, including trench coats, raincoats, or even abstract designs. They are usually waterproof or water-resistant, making them suitable for rainy or wet conditions.
You'll recognise these coats from their ultra-shiny and reflective fabrics that make up the glossy look that's on offer on patent trench coats. You'll find these in edgy trends, associated with retro and avant-garde styles that make up a futuristic look.
Hannah Banks-Walker is the Head of Fashion Commerce for Grazia, where she waxes lyrical about midi dresses and tries not to collect any more red lipsticks.