LFW: the statement coat making wet weather chic again

Seriously snug, the check coat is the ultimate wet weather armour and now it comes with an impressive sartorial edge too. Whether you want a streetwear style in a 90’s-inspired puffer jackets or are dreaming of an office-appropriate take on the trend, as LFW’s show goers proved, there really is a check coat for every occasion (including ones with truly tempestuous weather).

While this classic print has been on blazers and tweed jackets for years, thanks to the attention of fashion powerhouses such as Gucci, Balenciaga and Miu Miu, check has broken out of its shell and is breathing new life into our winter wardrobe as it makes its foray firmly into coats.

Forget any thoughts of checks feeling old fashioned and scented with mothballs, this new generation of checked coats remixes the best of the heritage-inspired print on new-season silhouettes. Here are the styles that have already got the fashion pack’s seal of approval.

The puffer check 

When you think of a heritage check you could be forgiven for only thinking of structured tweed jackets (leather elbow patches optional) but the next generation of check coats is more streetwear than stately home. Case in point? The ultra-practical puffer jacket, given a heritage remix courtesy of a grey check print. Proving once again that sometimes more really is more, this puffer jacket is elevated from statement piece to stand-out look with the addition of coordinating check jacket, trousers and baseball cap. It’s Saville Row style, but not as you know it. 

The statement check 

Want to coordinate with stormy skies? When grey weather calls, the style set answers with bold, colourful checks that spark joy whatever the wind chill. A vibrant yellow check immediately revives an all-black outfit and makes a pair of colour-clash pink shoes pop. Already mastered the statement coat? Add something a little extra to bring layers of texture to your look with an oversized scarf in a contrasting check print for a directional outfit that is (incidentally) wonderfully cosy.

The check trench 

Of course, the classic wet-weather staple is the timeless trench coat. Give this classic piece a new-season spin by opting for a design in a crisp check print. Look for long-line styles with a belted waist and tailoring-inspired lapels to add an androgynous edge that looks sleek from 9-5. Want to take your hardworking trench into the weekend? This brown and red-toned pattern pairs perfectly with warm caramel tones and tan accessories for a laidback weekend look that is elegant enough to take you from Saturday night drinks to Sunday morning markets. 

The check blazer

Thinking ahead to spring? Master the art of trans-seasonal dressing in a super chic check blazer. Choose a blazer with an oversized fit to wear with wide-leg trousers for a fashion-forward spin on office-appropriate dressing or keep it classic by pairing a fitted blazer with blue denim (structured skinny styles work best) and a bright white T-shirt. Keep it fun by throwing on a pair of contrasting check heels into the mix to co-ord with the blazer.

The contrast check 

Head-to-toe check isn’t the only way to make a statement with this print. Contrast a patterned sleeve with a block-coloured coat for a look that turns heads for all the right reasons. Want to add to the drama? Opt for a style that offers texture with a clashing quilted fabric and plays with proportions thanks to an oversized fit. Everyone will soon stop talking about the weather when you walk in wearing this.  

Images courtesy of @NoorAndZee & brands.