Outerwear Styling 101 (How To Style Coats + Jackets)

Outerwear Styling 101 (How To Style Coats + Jackets)

As the temperature drops, it's time to revamp your wardrobe with this season's must-have outerwear. At Harris Scarfe, we're excited to introduce our new collection of coats and jackets that blend style, functionality, and comfort. From casual outings to formal occasions, we've got the perfect coat to suit every taste and lifestyle. Join us as we explore our new range of coat styles from our favourite designer brands and discover how they can effortlessly elevate your autumn and winter looks.




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Go Classic & Timeless

Timeless outerwear deserves an equally enduring approach to how you style it. Whether it's a tailored trench, a structured blazer or a refined wool coat, classic jackets are wardrobe staples designed to transcend passing trends. The key lies in balancing sophistication with versatility, effortlessly transitioning from polished daytime ensembles to elegant evening looks. Focus on clean lines, thoughtful layering and understated accessories to let the craftsmanship shine. From office-ready pairings to weekend ease, these pieces adapt seamlessly to any occasion, proving that true style never fades!


The Classic Puffer Jacket

The classic puffer jacket is the ultimate winter jacket essential, designed to lock in warmth while keeping you effortlessly comfy and stylish. With its signature quilted stitching and lightweight yet cosy fill, it traps heat without bulk, making it a winter wardrobe hero. The classic silhouette features a high neck, zip-front closure and often includes handy pockets, perfect for both function and fashion. What makes it a must-have? Versatility! Dress it up over workwear for a polished commute, layer it under a coat for extra insulation or throw it on for weekend errands - it's built to adapt! Whether you're braving chilly mornings or evening adventures, this all-in-one winter jacket staple delivers comfort, practicality and timeless appeal. Stay warm and stylish, wherever your day takes you.

How To Style a Puffer Jacket

Style your puffer jacket effortlessly for any occasion! For a casual weekend look, pair it with a cosy hoodie, sleek leggings, and a pair of sneakers, then finish with a crossbody bag for hands-free convenience. Heading to work? Layer it over a turtleneck and tailored trousers, then finish with ankle boots for polish. For outdoor adventures, team it with a thermal tee, cargo pants and weatherproof shoes. Accessorise with a beanie and gloves for extra warmth. Versatile and chic, the classic puffer jacket adapts to your day, ensuring you will stay comfy and stylish everywhere you go!

The Tuxedo Blazer

Sophisticated and effortlessly chic, a tuxedo blazer is a timeless take on evening tailoring - it's sharp yet feminine, with satin lapels, a sleek silhouette and often a single-button closure. Inspired by menswear but designed for a polished feminine fit, it's a forever piece that will always stay timeless. It's perfect for black-tie events, evening dinners or elevating office attire. Hallmarks include peak or shawl lapels, a slightly elongated cut and comfortable materials like polyester or velvet. A modern wardrobe essential, it commands attention while remaining eternally classic.

How To Style A Tuxedo Blazer

Pair it with a crisp white shirt and tailored pants for a formal outing, or a silk camisole and cropped trousers for evening polish. For modern contrast, try dark denim and a sleek turtleneck. Finish with pointed-toe pumps or loafers, and a structured clutch or boxy handbag. The key? Balance its sharp lines with fluid fabrics and minimalist accessories, letting the blazer's timeless silhouette take centre stage.

The Trench Coat

An icon when it comes to classic looks, the trench coat is a timeless wardrobe essential that marries function with a classic style. With its signature double-breasted silhouette, belted waist and storm flap details, it delivers both polish and practicality. Perfect for transitional weather, it elevates everything from office attire (paired with tailored trousers) to weekend ensembles (worn over jeans). The trademark khaki hue remains a classic, and though modern iterations come in versatile neutrals and fabrics from lightweight cotton to weatherproof gabardine, the trench coat remains the ultimate symbol of enduring timeless style.

How To Style A Trench Coat

For daytime polish, pair with a tailored blouse, wide chinos and leather loafers. Elevate evening looks by belting it over a column dress with classic pumps. Complete office ensembles with a wool turtleneck, pencil skirt, and a structured leather tote. Weekend outfits shine when layered over a cashmere sweater with straight-leg jeans and sleek ballet flats. The trench coat's magic lies in its ability to transform simple separates into timeless and classic looks - always let its iconic drape and details command attention.

The Military Coat

Command attention with a military coat, a timeless outerwear essential that exudes structured elegance. Inspired by heritage uniforms, this piece features distinctive details like stunning brass buttons, epaulets and tailored silhouettes that flatter every figure. Crafted in high-quality materials like durable wool or cotton twill, it pairs effortlessly with both casual and dressy ensembles. With its perfect balance of strength and femininity, the military coat remains a forever staple that will always remain a timeless piece in your wardrobe.

How To Style A Military Coat

Style your military coat with easy elegance by pairing it with wardrobe staples. Try it over a white or dark tee and dark jeans for casual days, adding simple sneakers and a roomy handbag. For work, layer it atop a turtleneck and straight-leg trousers with polished loafers. Dress it up by belting it over a midi dress with classic casual shoes. The structured silhouette looks great with both feminine and tailored pieces - just add minimal jewellery and let those beautiful brass buttons shine!



Keep it Smart & Sophisticated

Smart and sophisticated jackets are the cornerstone of a polished wardrobe, offering endless versatility with timeless appeal. Designed to elevate any look, these pieces effortlessly transition from professional settings to refined evenings out. The secret lies in their clean lines, impeccable tailoring and understated details that exude quiet confidence. Whether you're aiming for crisp professionalism or elegant ease, the right styling approach enhances their inherent sophistication. Focus on balance, proportion and thoughtful pairings to let the jacket's craftsmanship shine.


The Swing Coat

Defined by its graceful A-line silhouette, the swing coat offers sophistication with a feminine touch. The tailored shoulder and notched collar create structure, while the gently flared hem adds movement and elegance. Perfect for both professional and social occasions, this coat transitions seamlessly from workday to evening. Crafted from materials such as fine wool or cashmere, its mid-length cut provides polished versatility. With clean lines and understated details, the swing coat remains a wardrobe essential, its architectural shape delivering quiet confidence season after season.

How To Style A Swing Coat

Achieve a smart, sophisticated look with your swing coat by pairing it with wide-leg pants and a structured blouse for office-ready polish. For evening refinement, layer over a column dress with sleek slingbacks. A boxy leather handbag complements professional ensembles, while a metallic clutch bag adds cocktail-hour glamour. For weekend appeal, combine with wide-leg trousers and heels. The coat's architectural drape demands precision, so be sure to anchor its volume with sharp tailoring and luxe fabrics. Complete the look with a minimalist watch or pearl studs to underscore the intentional, cultivated aesthetic.

The Cocoon Coat

Step out in style with the cocoon coat, featuring a polished funnel neck and deep side-angled pockets. Its structured silhouette exudes sophistication, making it the ideal outerwear for both casual outings and formal events. This coat effortlessly combines fashion and functionality, ensuring you stay chic and cosy wherever you go.

How To Style a Cocoon Coat

Opt for effortless sophistication by styling with tailored trousers, a crisp button-down shirt, and loafers for a polished office ensemble. For a chic weekend look, layer it over a turtleneck sweater, midi skirt, and knee-high boots. Complete the outfit with a leather tote bag and oversized sunglasses for added glamour.

Funnel Neck Coat

Elevate your winter wardrobe with the timeless appeal of the funnel neck coat. Crafted for comfort and style, this versatile coat is a must-have staple for any fashion-forward individual. Whether you're heading to the office, out to dinner, or brunching with friends, the Funnel Neck Coat keeps you warm and stylish without compromising on comfort. Embrace its ultra-comfortable, easy-to-wear design and make a statement wherever you go.

How To Style the Funnel Neck Coat

Achieve refined elegance by pairing it with a structured dress, tights, and pumps for a sophisticated office-ready look. For a more laid-back vibe, style it with skinny jeans, a knitted sweater, and ankle boots. Accessorise with a statement belt and pendant necklace to elevate your winter outfit.

Fit and Flare Coat

Effortlessly feminine and eternally chic, the fit and flare coat features a smart silhouette that cinches at the waist before gracefully flaring out, creating a polished yet romantic shape. Perfect for both daytime elegance and evening sophistication, it transitions seamlessly from office wear to holiday parties or weekend brunches. It features a tailored bodice, A-line skirt-like detailing and often belted accents for definition. Crafted from materials such as wool, cashmere, polyester or tweed, this classic design flatters every figure while evoking sophisticated charm.

How To Style the Fit and Flare Coat

The fit and flare jacket's smart silhouette shines when styled with feminine yet polished pieces. Pair it with a fitted turtleneck and slim trousers for a tailored daytime look, or a lace blouse and midi skirt for evening elegance. Knee-high boots or pointed-toe pumps elongate the legs, while a structured top-handle bag or leather clutch completes the ensemble. For modern contrast, try it with cropped jeans and ankle boots. The key? Balance its sculpted shape with streamlined separates for a look that's effortlessly chic and eternally flattering.



Outerwear Styling: 8 Tips for Success

Outerwear has the power to define your look before you even step out the door. These eight essential tips for success will help you unlock the full potential of your coats and jackets, transforming them from practical necessities into style statements. Discover how to create outfits that feel both intentional and inspired, turning everyday ensembles into something special. Whether you prefer classic elegance or contemporary edge, these guiding principles will help you develop a more thoughtful relationship with your outerwear, one that elevates your personal style.


1. Tailored Layers

Master your coat ensembles with smart layering - start with fitted basics for a streamlined foundation. A tailored shirt or slim knit creates a polished base that complements your outerwear perfectly. This approach maintains clean proportions while adding depth to your look. The right foundation pieces let your coat shine as the star of your outfit, ensuring effortless sophistication from collar to hemline.

2. Accessorise Thoughtfully

Accessories hold the power to transform your outerwear into a true style statement. A carefully chosen belt can define your silhouette, while an artfully tied scarf introduces texture and movement. Consider structured gloves or a wide-brimmed hat to complete your look with intentional polish. The key lies in balance - select pieces that enhance rather than compete with your coat's design. From metallic details to rich fabric choices, these finishing touches create dimension while maintaining sophistication, proving that thoughtful accents make all the difference in crafting a complete, considered ensemble.

3. Mix Textures

Textures transform good outfits into extraordinary ones, so play with contrasting fabrics to create dimension. Try combining matte and glossy finishes for subtle sophistication or layer chunky knits under smooth outerwear for tactile appeal. These thoughtful pairings add depth without overwhelming your silhouette, proving that material choices matter just as much as colour and cut. Mastering fabric combinations elevates your outerwear game with quiet, luxurious impact.

4. Play with Proportions

Create harmony in your outerwear looks by playing with proportion. Structured, tailored coats shine when paired with fluid wide-leg trousers, while voluminous oversized styles balance perfectly with streamlined silhouettes underneath. This intentional contrast of shapes delivers a modern, fashion-conscious aesthetic that feels both deliberate and effortless. Mastering these proportional pairings ensures your ensemble makes a sophisticated statement while maintaining impeccable balance from shoulders to hemline.

5. Layer Knitwear

Incorporate knitwear into your coat ensemble for added warmth and style. Layer chunky knit sweaters or cardigans under your coat for an effortlessly cosy look that's perfect for chilly days. Experiment with different knit textures and colours to create contrast and visual interest.

6. Mix & Match

Unlock your outerwear's full potential by embracing creative combinations. Blend classic coats with unexpected wardrobe elements for fresh, personalized looks. Play with tonal pairings or bold colour contrasts to express your style narrative. Introduce pattern mixing or varied textures for dimensional interest. This approach transforms familiar pieces into original ensembles, proving versatility lies in imaginative styling. Your coat becomes not just a covering but a canvas for self-expression, where heritage pieces meet contemporary flair through thoughtful pairings that celebrate individuality while maintaining sartorial polish.

7. Consider Length

Consider coat length as the foundation of your outfit's proportions. Floor-grazing styles create instant elegance and elongate your silhouette, perfect for polished occasions. Shorter cuts offer contemporary ease, ideal for casual ensembles. The right length frames your look, whether highlighting tailored separates or balancing relaxed layers. This intentional choice elevates your entire outfit, transforming outerwear from functional to statement-making with just one considered detail.

8. Focus On Fit

Nothing elevates outerwear like impeccable fit. A well-cut coat skims your silhouette gracefully: shoulders sitting precisely, sleeves ending at just the right point and the hem falling perfectly. While off-the-rack options provide a starting point, strategic tailoring transforms good into exceptional. Taking the time to adjust proportions ensures your coat doesn't just keep you warm, but makes a powerful style statement. This attention to detail separates ordinary outerwear from investment pieces that radiate confidence and sophistication season after season.




Sophisticated Simplicity: Effortless Coat Styling For Every Woman

Keep these helpful coat styling tips in mind to make sure you are looking your best, whether it's looking smart in the office, a classic style when hitting the town or a timeless look when needing something casual. Explore our full range of women's jackets & coats, footwear, tops, pants, bags, sweaters and much more, and be sure to visit us online or in-store. If you liked our blog on how to style coats, then head over to the Hub for more helpful ideas and inspiration! Some great articles you'll love include:

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