‘I’m a fashion writer. Here are my 5 tips for picking the perfect winter coat.’

I was having a conversation with a colleague the other day about how we can't wait for winter. Nope, it wasn't because we enjoy skiing (at least that's not my reason), it was because of the fashion.

Once the cooler weather hits, we start adding layers (duh) – jumpers, puffer jackets, and coats.

Coats are everywhere at this time of year; in all the storefronts and on the homepage of almost every retailer you know and love. But finding the perfect coat that fits, goes with everything and suits you... well, that's the hard part.

I've had this one coat in my wardrobe for years. I saw a woman wearing it and asked her immediately where it was from, "Forever New," she told me.

It's still the same shape and of the same quality as when I bought it.

Fast forward to now and Forever New has launched a new collection of coats at Myer. All of them are affordable luxury coats that use sustainable fabrics and are timeless silhouettes and colours. 

To help you find the perfect coat – without having to go up to a random stranger and asked where she got it from – I've listed the top five tips I follow when shopping for a new one. 

1. Choose a timeless silhouette.

No matter what's on-trend, you're going to want to reach for a coat come wintertime. So, my number one suggestion is to buy a coat that doesn't fit into any trend. 

Timeless silhouettes are those that are single or double-breasted and feature a neutral colour.

Forever New's Becca Single Breasted Coatigan, $159.99, is a perfect example of that. 

It has the boxy shoulders everyone is loving but is also tailored, making it a bit more feminine than the really oversized options. 

It has a single button fastening (tick) and comes in five colours – brown, cream, grey marle, black and chocolate.

It's my top pick for the season.

Image: Myer.

2. Think of functionality and wearability.

Someone once said to me that if you can't see the piece worn five different ways with things in your existing closet, then don't buy it.

I know this doesn't apply to everything (if you love the pink dress, buy the pink dress), but it definitely does with a winter coat that will last.

Can you wear the coat with the clothes you wear to work? Could you throw it over a dress for dinner? What about on a Sunday, or just when you duck out to run errands? 

If you aren't saying yes to all those questions in your head, maybe reconsider whether it's the right coat for you.

3. Leave room for layers.

This tip might seem like a no-brainer, but many of us can forget this, especially when we're usually shopping for clothes that fit us just right.

Make sure when browsing for a coat that you're considering whether you'll be able to wear a long sleeve underneath. And a jumper. Maybe a scarf too. 

Something with a belt, like the Lorna Check Belted Coat, $199,99, is a great option if you want something that can give you shape but also fit layers underneath. 

Image: Myer.

If you're wearing less, like a knit dress – cinch it in with the belt.

Otherwise, if you've got on a jumper, a scarf, maybe even a puffer vest if it's really cold, keep it undone, and it'll all fit.

4. Choose a neutral colour.

Remember those questions I suggested you ask before buying a coat? The same rules apply here.

Although a coat in a fun colour looks great, you won't get nearly as much wear out of it as something that's neutral.

When you choose one that's black, grey, brown, camel or khaki (I consider khaki a neutral), you can pair it with everything.

Including a fun coloured top. Or shoes. Or pants. 

It's just so versatile.

Take this Baxter Single Breasted Longline Coat, $189.99, as an example. You can wear it with jeans, dresses, a white t-shirt, a patterned blouse – the list goes on. 

Image: Myer.

5. Purchase a quality piece.

Quality doesn't need to mean expensive. It's all about the materials used, the structure of the piece and whether it ticks all the boxes you're looking for.

When I mentioned the Forever New coat I've had for years that's still in great shape, it was under $200. But it was well made, in a neutral colour (grey marle) and fit me in all the right places.

Forever New's affordable luxury coats are made with sustainable fabrics. They contain recycled polyester, which reuses existing plastic material and reliance on virgin materials. These coats feel premium. 

Think of a coat how you would a handbag or a watch. You're going to wear it often, so make sure it's going to both last and suit you.

Shop the latest range of affordable luxury coats from the Forever New collection at Myer.

Feature Image: Supplied/Myer.