Embarking on something new is always a somewhat daunting process and we can totally relate with anyone who seeks a second opinion on dressing for the new season. We speak on behalf of most of us when we say that the very first thing anyone does before buying anything new is consult a professional source ─ be it a local fast fashion outlet, the gram, the glossies or, our personal favourite, the fashion blogs.
This Autumn, we thought we’d simplify the process by bringing the expert opinions to you, instead of you having to look for them yourself. For this purpose, we’ve called up a few industry aficionados and asked them to weigh in on what their favourite top layers for the season are.
So whether you’re braving the wet and cold days in March, or looking for fashionable incentives to buy a new coat for the upcoming winter, these are our editors’ top picks on what coats and jackets to buy for Autumn 2019.
JUSTINE KROES
BIO:
Justine is a freelance stylist and writer with nine years’ experience in the both the fashion and beauty realms of the magazine industry. Justine’s background is in corporate communication, but her eye for fashion paved the way into the magazine world. She loves helping women feel great about themselves, resulting in monthly makeovers that are featured in the Rooi Rose magazine. She currently works as a stylist for magazine covers as well as a stylist to private clients.
JUSTINE’S PICKS:
Bright and Bold
Bold colours (especially yellow) are a must try this season and will instantly elevate your look to the next level. I love this Brave Soul Short Padded Jacket as it speaks true to the 90’s resurgence we are currently experiencing in the fashion world. The shorter crop guarantees that “cute” factor while the padding will ensure you stay toasty! PS if yellow isn’t for you opt for the Cobalt Blue version.
The Little Black Jacket
A simple must have for every winter season is a stylish black jacket. I adore the versatility of this Revenge biker jacket specifically the double lapel zipper detail. Instinctively I would pair this jacket with a floral flowy dress as I love the idea of combining contrasting styles, but pairing it with your favourite denim, statement tee and sneakers would be the next best thing.
A Season Staple
At the beginning of each winter season I keep an eye out for the perfect neutral coat, one that I can pair with most items in my cupboard, it must have a unique design that sets it apart from other monotonous coats, and most importantly – it should be flattering. The Utopia Melton Grey Coat (R399) ticks all those boxes, the perfect shade of grey, unique oversized collar detail and a belt perfect for cinching in that waist, not to mention the longer length on this one. Move over Olivia Pope!
More is More
Animal print has made its comeback for AW 2019 and this time it’s anything but kitsch. Snake skin and leopard print are my preferred prints. What better way to wear this trend than with a double-breasted trench? Pair this gorgeous London Hub Fashion Trench with neutrals to keep your look minimal or layer it with another print to keep up with the more is more trend we see popping up on the runways.
JESSICA RAMOSHABA
BIO:
True Love editor. I love to travel. In my spare time, I love to watch fashion documentaries. My favourite style quote is “confidence and comfort are the best style accessories.”
JESSICA’S PICKS:
This is a versatile piece to wear on lazy Saturdays or for travel during the wet winter season. You can wear it from gym all the way to lunch with the girls.
Navy is sophisticated and timeless. These pieces are great statement jackets for workwear and outerwear.
KIM CUPIDO
BIO:
Fashion can’t be something you do; it has to be something you love. My fashion career has led me on two very different journeys; I spent over ten years in the design and manufacture side of the industry and now, as fashion editor and trend forecaster at Zando. I find that the first part of my career is having a profound impact on the second. Knowing how much creative energy, hard work and love of fashion goes into creating a garment inspires me to want to present it to the Zando customer in the most creative and fashion-forward way possible.
KIM’S PICKS:
Every man should own at least on trucker jacket; black and/ or blue denim versions are an absolute essential. This autumn’s updated trucker jackets are made in fine corduroy and trimmed with plush shearling.
The puffer jacket is like a soft, insulated and warm suit of armour shielding you from the elements. This season’s colour-blocked versions are perfectly paired with coordinated sweats and the season’s must-have chunky soled sneakers.
The parka’s primary purpose is to keep you warm and dry in inclement weather but that doesn’t preclude it from also being a stylish piece of clothing. While it is most commonly styled with jeans and a great pair of boots, the parka can just as easily keep you warm and dry when heading to the office.
RUSTY BEUKES
BIO:
If you’ve had the pleasure of working with Rusty Beukes, then chances are you love him, his work, or both. A leading menswear stylist and the Fashion Director at GQ South Africa & Glamour South Africa, he is known for his work ethic and considered approach to dressing.
RUSTY’S PICKS:
Minimal, clean and understated. What more do you need in a coat?
Classic denim will never let you down.
A Sherpa lining just adds personality to your jacket.
What are your favourite jacket and coat styles for the season? Share your answers with this post on your social media.
