When it comes to outerwear choices for autumn, few are as iconic as the best trench coats. Classified by storm flats, a fabric belt and epaulette detailing, this timeless design can be worn again and again, defying trends and working in both spring and autumn.
But as much as a Burberry trench coat is up there as one of the most sought-after fashion pieces to own, this prescriptive outerwear design is not for everyone. And if you're already bored of hearing people say, "it's trench coat season", then you might want to try one of these standout styles instead.
Combining timely and classic silhouettes, I've found nine coats that are the perfect antidote to the trench coat, that will work with multiple autumn outfit ideas, and I've kept the colours purposefully muted to ensure that you can max out their cost per wear.
If a trench coat doesn't quite do it for you, try these outerwear styles instead
Don't get me wrong, a trench coat will always have a home in my autumn capsule wardrobe, and I'm a particularly big fan of Hobbs iterations of this classic design, for both their detailing, sizing and the fact that they're some of the best waterproof jackets that don't compromise on style, but as a fashion editor, even I can get a little bored with the trench coat obsession at this time of year.
And as the shops start to fill up with great outerwear styles, now is the time to start shopping, before the sizes disappear and the best winter coats make everything just that bit too heavy for spring or autumn wear.
I've compiled this list based on my knowledge of the latest coat trends for 2025. I've kept my ear to the ground and eyes peeled for those pieces that have a designer-like aesthetic, but at a range of price points, so there's something for everyone.
9 coats that will make you want to shelve your trench coat for autumn
Echoing the spirit of Toteme, this exceptional long-line coat, with a coated wax outer, is the very definition of a style steal. Drawing inspiration from the catwalks, this corduroy collared jacket will keep you dry and stylish as we step into autumn.
Another beautiful coat channelling catwalk energy, this round-necked, faux fur design features a trio of front toggle fastenings, similar to Toteme's smash hit outerwear last year. With faux fur being one of the major handbag trends 2025, this soft and fluffy fabrication always carries over into outerwear too.
Reflecting the Barn Jacket silhouettes that have come to the fore this autumn, this cropped parka is an excellent choice for weather-proofing your look. In the same versatile hue as traditional trench coats, the relaxed and boxy fit makes it easy to slip over chunky knits.
The scarf coat is another coat trend that is making a second outing. If you were smart enough to buy into this elegant style last year, then make sure to dry clean that piece of outerwear and get it back into your outfit rotations for another season.
Leather and suede jackets are key for autumn styling this season and the bomber jacket design delivers a sports luxe silhouette. The rich mustard-tan hue feels utterly trend-worthy, while the casual silhouette makes it easy to style over everything.
If you like the idea of a trench coat, but not the fussy details, then you need to invest in a new season car coat. Same practicality, but with cleaner lines, I love the navy hue of this simple but elegant coat. Easy to dress up for the office or down with jeans and trainers at the weekend.
The barn jacket is the androgynous piece of outerwear that you'll be spotting everywhere this autumn. Giving us that Barbour aesthetic at a fraction of the price, I love the trending brown hue of this design.
When it comes to outerwear, is there anything more elegant than a dogtooth, monochromatic coat. The chic sixties aesthetic of this design delivers a delightfully retro feel that will pep up autumn work outfits, or add polish to weekend jean ensembles.
If money were no object, then this shearling and leather bomber jacket fully has my heart. A reversible design for two looks in one, this neutral-hued jacket is so luxe. The buttery soft leather will make heading into cooler climes feel so worth it.
Whatever your budget, there is the perfect piece of autumn outerwear out there for you. From boxy and relaxed aesthetics that will dress down the best women's trouser suits, adding an instant cool edge, to smartly tailored high-street iterations that won't cost the earth but do look runway worthy, this season nail your outerwear and the rest of your autumn looks should fall into place.
The first piece that many will see of your outfit on any given day, you want to find a coat that suits your overall style, so first think about whether you prefer form-fitting or oversized silhouettes. And while you can have as many coats as you like, opting for neutral colourways will keep your chosen style versatile when it comes to teaming with other looks.
Finally, think about your lifestyle. Autumn weather can be pretty changeable, so while we generally don't require a heavy coat to fight the blistering cold, if you walk a lot or take public transport, as oppose to drive, weather-proofing might be of greater concern, so consider coats with appropriate fabric finishes, or keep those luxe suede, faux fur and shearling designs for cool but dry days.
