Winter Coats 2011

As winter approaches, it is time to update your wardrobe with winter clothing. Coats are one of the most essential of winter clothing items and there are many designs and styles that you can choose from. Before you invest in a brand new coat, it is best to know which styles and patterns of coats are in vogue. This year, coat designs are more on the flamboyant side with a bolder and brighter color palette. Although you should own coats in basic colors like tan, brown and black, a burgundy or electric blue colored coat can instantly jazz up an evening dress. The fashion trends this season clearly point towards structured coats that comes with sharply tailored fits and lots of embellishments. You can choose from fitted military coats in colors like midnight blue, charcoal and gray to short aviator coats trimmed with faux fur. If you are looking for something more fancy to wear for a party, then choose winter coats made of brocade and jacquard fabric with subtle shimmer.

Best Winter Coats of 2011

Cape
A style of winter coat that is very much in vogue is the cape. The cape coat is fun and comfortable and it embodies the spirit of casual wear. A short cape is preferable to longer ones as it looks modern and chic. A beautiful cape in tweed or wool would look stunning when paired with skinny jeans and cigarette pants. Cape coats with faux fur detailing, oversized collars and sheepskin collars are very much in trend this season. Designers like Michael Kors and Salvatore Ferragamo and Ralph Lauren have some of the best designs in cape coats that are flattering and chic.

Since cape coats are so voluminous, it is best paired with sleeker apparel like skinny jeans, pencil skirts and fitted dresses for balance and proportion. An ankle length pair of booties and a chunky bracelet will complete your look. Whether you opt for high street or designer labels, winter fashion coats should be of the right design and should also be flattering for your body type.

Trench Coats
One of the classic winter coats 2011 for women is the trench coat. A trench coat is a classic and timeless piece of winter clothing and it spells class and sophistication. A vintage Burberry trench coat will make your pockets lighter but do consider this as an investment. It will never go out of style and it can dress up even the simplest outfit. An ivory trench coat with tan or black buttons is a must have for a evening do and a camel or brown colored trench coat is perfect for daytime. If purchasing a Burberry, is not in your budget, then some other high street labels like Mango, French Connection, Guess and Promod also have great options in trench coats. If money is no obstacle, go ahead and get an uber stylish high-end designer trench coat and get ready for the compliments to pour in.

Swing Coats
If you are looking for something chic and edgy in winter clothing, then you should definitely purchase a swing coat. A swing coat is fitted at the shoulders and upper chest and then gradually flares at the bottom. Because of the way it is constructed, a swing coat as the name suggests, swings outwards at the waist. A swing coat is a fashionable alternative to bulky pea coats and the best thing about it is that it suits most body types. You can pair swing coats with short and mid length dresses, tights and jeans.

Aviator Coats
Aviator coats or aviator jackets are also trendy winter wear that can be worn by both men and women. The aviator coat for men are usually waist length and made of leather. This type of coats are great as casual wear and men can wear them with faded denims and cowboy boots. This traditional male jacket is also worn by women who can carry off the rock chic look. A beautiful aviator jacket in sheepskin and leather is a great addition in any women's wardrobe. Olive, chocolate, tan and black are some of the best colors in aviator coats. Aviator coats should be paired with draped dresses in soft and romantic colors. These winter jackets for women makes any frilly dress look instantly modernized and is ideal for very cold winters. Another growing trend in men's winter coats 2011 is the pea coats. Pea coats also known as military jackets were popular in the 50s and were worn mostly by the military and the navy. These winter jackets for men are made in wool and wool blends, as well as tweeds.

Since coats are expensive, choose a style that looks good on you. With so many winter coat trends, it will not be difficult to find one that suits you, and also your budget. While buying winter clothing always keep current trends and fashion in mind.