It befalls us to inform you, therefore, that one of the biggest trends right now is in fact tartan coats. That's right, tartan, plaid and houndstooth have never looked better. So, it's only fair we make sure you're prepared and in-the-know about this season's must-have outerwear and best coat to invest in.
A winter-spring coat is the crux of any wardrobe – it's something you'll likely wear every day (if you live in the UK) and (hopefully) can be re-worn every winter for years. Tartan coats rejoined the fashion conversation after a special sighting in Killing Eve (as seen above). When season three hit, Jodie Comer was spotted in the most incredible tartan coat from Charles Jeffrey LOVERBOY. Harriet Walters, meanwhile, revived the most iconic check of all, Burberry's, to star opposite her.
The Duchess of Cambridge is also a paid-up member of the tartan fan club, being spotted in one or two tartan dresses on Kate Middleton. As well as several checked dresses and skirts, she's the proud owner of a brilliant tartan coat from Holland & Cooper. Less Clueless and more clued-in.
Take note: if all this layering business has got you feeling confused each morning, start with the coat, and things might slot into place. As effective as the classic trench coat, check the tartan trend box in our edit of the best power plaid coats to buy now or regret later.
SHOP: The Best Tartan Coats To Invest In
Editor's Choice
coggleswww.coggles.com
Elevate your style with Marant Etoile's Laurie coat. Crafted from a vibrant multicoloured tartan wool blend, it features a classic collar, practical pockets, and a stylish back slit. Make sure to dry clean only on this one.
the outnetwww.theoutnet.com
The Stand Studio Maria Checked Faux Shearling Coat is your go-to for winter warmth and comfort. Made from soft faux fur, its relaxed fit pairs beautifully with chunky knits. With a checked pattern, two front pockets, and a concealed snap fastening, it's both stylish and practical. Fully lined for added cosiness, this mid-weight, non-stretchy coat is a must-have for colder months.
john lewiswww.johnlewis.com
To get Kate Middleton's navy and green tartan look, grab the Barbour Tartan Inverraray Wool Coat. Almost an exact choice, you'll look effortlessly elegant and being blended with wool, you'll get comfort from this coat too.
asoswww.asos.com
For an eccentric choice, go to Topshop. You'll stand out in this pink-brown check that is the oh-so-sweet Topshop Long-Line Brushed Formal Coat In Pink Check.
joseph fashionwww.joseph-fashion.com
The Double Face Plaid Chatsworth Coat offers a relaxed, oversized fit in a cosy wool blend. With a versatile collar and stylish details like a double-breasted front and removable belt, it's a lightweight option with a soft, brushed mohair texture. Consider sizing down for the perfect fit.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
Looking for a shorter choice? This Fatface Checked Collared Longline Coat with Wool comes down just below the hip for a perfect transitional choice between autumn and winter.
toastwww.toa.st
The new Toast Wool Houndstooth Raglan Coat exudes timeless elegance. It boasts raglan sleeves, an easy A-line silhouette, and practical side patch pockets. The deep back vent ensures effortless movement, while the cotton twill lining adds comfort.
Karen Millenwww.karenmillen.com
The Karen Millen Italian Bright Boucle Short Cape Coat is a statement piece of outerwear. Crafted with precision from high-quality Italian boucle fabric, you can elevate your winter wardrobe with this eye-catching cape coat.
River Island www.riverisland.com
The River Island Brown Wool Blend Check Longline Coat features a double-breasted design, side slip pockets, a classic collar, and long sleeves. Fastened with buttons, it's a versatile longline coat that's both fashionable and functional.
whistleswww.whistles.com
Crafted from a checker-printed wool blend, the notched lapel with cuff details in this Whistles Wool Double Breast Check Coat adds a touch of sophistication. This double-breasted coat is the perfect companion for cold weather, ideal for layering over bold knits.
Abercrombie & Fitchwww.abercrombie.com
Go monochrome with this Abercrombie & Fitch Wool-Blend Belted Blanket Coat. Made with soft-luxe double-cloth wool, you'll be sure to stay warm in this choice. Plus, it has an adjustable belt and pockets for full functionality.
How To Wear A Tartan Coat?
The influencer set has also realised the power of a tartan coat. It's a little less austere than something grey or even a camel coat - and adds colour without trying too hard. You only need to look at shearling coats or tartan coats to see the effect of texture-plus colour.
Mega-stylist Shiona Turini packed a sunshine yellow version for Paris Fashion Week - It was so chic that she wore it entirely buttoned up, with simple tan mules and a bag from Telfar, letting those checks speak for themselves. After all, there's nothing more classic than an oversized designer coat.
Elsewhere, the stylish wore green-on-black versions and brown-on-black versions, again letting the coat form the cornerstone of their winter looks. Top tip: start wearing your trendy tartan coat as an early autumn coat to jump ahead of the trend. This choice can truly do anything.
Lillian Sesiguzel is Grazia’s Social Media & Video Producer, working across fashion and beauty. Lillian comes from a background in fashion, having assisted celebrity stylist Elizabeth Saltzman. She is also a blogger, focusing on fashion for women with fuller busts. Find her on Instagram and Twitter.