Great coats

The camel coat is this autumn's key piece. If you have a good one already, so much the better, but if you don't, now is the perfect time to seek out a truly beautiful piece that, while currently having a fashion moment, is actually one of the all-time great style classics.

Chloe showed a long double-breasted camel coat with waist-deep lapels, while Gucci had a neat slim-lapelled mid-thigh version – both look fabulous teamed with toning taupe trousers and simple knits (this all-over tone neutral look is key for autumn/winter). LK Bennett, meanwhile, has a wonderful single-breasted long camel coat for 295, while George at Asda has a fab little full-skirted knee-length belted velour camel coat for 35.

Military influence is stronger than ever this season and nowhere more so that when it comes to outerwear. Most coats are double-breasted and many have brass or metallic buttons, some are belted and collars vary from neat Nehru style (great for petites) to wide and impressive lapels (ideal for pear shapes, balancing top half with bottom). Choose from long sweeping maxi coats through above-the-knee lengths to hip-skimming jacket lengths, but team all with knee-high leather boots, preferably in black.

Heritage is another of fashion's key themes, which means that there are some lovely checked and tartan coats available, and cape coats are key players this season, with camel, checked and military capes all making strong statements and looking ultra-chic teamed with slim trousers.

Sheepskin and shearling are massive, everywhere, as any trip out to the High Street right now will illustrate and again there are versions of all lengths, although aviator jackets are most the fore, and so handy for flinging over your knitted tunic dress for a nifty, easy transitional look.

But there are long and short shaggy and faux fur coats too, perfect for teaming with party dresses later in the season.

As I said, so many coats... and if you choose your coat with care, you'll bag yourself a classic for many seasons to come.