Cool Coat Trends (Glam Slam)

We’ve enjoyed cooler weather out here in Southern California all this week, which means that we too can finally get excited about jackets and coats. I even broke out a scarf this past weekend!

The rest of the country gets to enjoy their coats and I actually have a little case of coat envy, because there are so many options to try.

RueLaLa.com’s fashion director Jackie Nasser breaks down the top trends and how to wear them.

Moto:
One of the biggest coat trends this winter is the moto jacket. With so many different variations, the moto jacket can be incredibly versatile—a simple black moto jacket can provide you with a cool, downtown vibe, or if you’re feeling more adventurous, opt for a jacket with studs or hardware. My favorite way to wear the moto jacket is by juxtaposing it with feminine, flirty pieces—adding edge to a fit and flare dress or a skirt with tights and booties. The moto jacket is definitely a piece worth investing in!

Seen on: Miranda Kerr, Emma Watson (pictured), Rachel Bilson, Olivia Wilde

Military:
The military coat trend is all about olive or dark brown coloring, gold buttons and chains. To achieve the feminine military look, go for a tailored and fitted coat. And if you want to try the head-to-toe military look, pair the coat with camo print pants!

Seen on: Lily Collins, Olivia Munn, Olivia Palermo

Winter White:
The “no white after Labor Day” rule was meant to be broken. White is chic year round, especially in the winter. As long as the fabric is suitable, it’s appropriate. Winter white can be a nice option for dressier events, or, as Olivia Pope has shown us on Scandal, the winter white coat works great as a striking day-to-day option that makes you stand out.

Seen on: Victoria Beckham, Olivia Palermo, Angelina Jolie (pictured), Gwen Stefani

Faux Fur:
Faux fur is a staple, whether it’s a full faux fur coat or a coat with simple trim. The quality of faux fur is so great right now—and it’s actually warm! It’s a great option for an evening look when you’re not sure what outerwear to go for, but can really be worn with anything, from jeans and booties to a cocktail dress.

Seen on: Miley Cyrus, Lily Collins, Kate Moss

Camel:
Camel-colored coats are a nice way to stand out in a sea of black. While a lot of people tend to go for black or navy when it comes to outerwear, camel is a neutral alternative that’s also a little bit different. And there are no rules: the color goes with everything, from pastels and whites to darker jewel tones!

Seen on: Taylor Swift, Ashley Olsen, Kate Bosworth

Capes:
Another trend that’s been all over the runways is the cape, which is a great transitional piece to wear in places that don’t get too cold in the winter. Because the cape has such a voluminous shape, be sure to wear it with skinnier bottoms—skinny jeans or leather pants—to give you the right proportions. A basic black or printed cape will give you a sophisticated, chic look.

Seen on: Olivia Munn, Pippa Middleton, Rachel Zoe

— Ryan Patterson