Now, I know I don’t need to regale you with why a great winter coat is such an essential – most of us are practically living in them at the moment. But if you’re wanting to liven up your look, it makes sense to invest in the one item that’s actually on display, and there’s a semi-fresh style in town that’s gaining plenty of traction. Allow me to introduce you to scarf coats.
As the name suggests, this chic piece of outerwear steps into accessories territory, coming complete with an (often detachable) scarf in a coordinating colour and fabric, making the silhouette of the classic coat immediately appear much more striking.
Why can’t we just wear an ordinary coat and scarf? I hear you ask. Well, although you absolutely can (and should), the scarf coat’s beauty comes from this coordination, which lends it an effortlessly elegant style that will make your outfit look much more put together.
So, if you spotted the large number of influencers and fashion insiders swanning around in matching scarf and coat looks last Fashion Week, of which there were plenty, the two-in-one scarf coat would be the secret. Plus, it’s actually incredibly cosy as well.
The origin of the scarf coat, however, is up for debate. While some credit American fashion designer Yeohlee Teng for creating the style in the 1980s, others argue it was Jean Paul Gaultier for Hermès that truly leant into the look. Although it was Stockholm-based luxury label Toteme that made it mainstream in 2021, with countless iterations of the two-in-one jacket now available on the high street.
Luckily, this now means there are plenty of built-in scarf coats available to snap up at every price point, whether you’re after a luxurious cashmere or wool blend or an affordable Asos option. And they come in a wide range of designs, from thick black puffers to lightweight wrap jackets, meaning there’s something to fill any wardrobe gap.
Just be sure to shop for one that works with the rest of your wardrobe. If you’re prone to wearing neutrals, a simple cream, beige or brown will be the perfect addition. Or, for those who love their all-black outfits, darker shades are sure to suit you just fine. Remember, you can always add interest through texture by opting for a faux fur or bouclé option as well.
Yet, no matter which scarf coat you opt for, one thing’s for sure: gone are the days of losing our scarves on the train! So long as you keep it attached, that is.
