The ultimate winter wardrobe classic.

If you’re going to invest in one thing and one thing only for the upcoming seasons (or ever for that matter), make it a good camel coat. While it might seem a little early, trust me when I say now’s the time to buy one, especially as there are some incredible bargains around.

A camel coat’s versatility and timelessness means it’ll be money well spent. In fact, I think it’s one of the best winter coats out there. Whether it’s thrown over an oversized suit, knitted midi dress or joggers and a sweatshirt, a well-tailored camel coat has an inherent knack for making any outfit look expensive.

What style of camel coat should I go for?

Don’t be fooled into thinking camel coats are boring, because the style options are endless. You will never go wrong with the double-breasted coat or the midi-length and buttonless belted version, however, this season it’s all about the more daring designs.

I am loving the ankle-grazing oversized look as seen on the catwalk at Max Mara and Fendi, but I’m also embracing all things casual. Whether that’s the long puffer jacket seen at Moncler or Brunello Cucinelli or the shearling-lined shell jacket at Stella McCartney. Tactile textures are another key look. Bottega Veneta’s fringe shearling coat is high on my wishlist, as is Max Mara’s teddy coat.

If you’re on a budget, try the likes of COS, Arket and Boden. If you’d like something more trend-led, check out Mango, Zara and ASOS.

How to style a camel coat

I spoke to celebrity stylist, Karen Williams (@karenwilliamstylist) all about how to style camel coats for the upcoming season.

“I have been wearing camel coats on and off since forever, there’s something about this biscuity tone that just makes you feel warm and crumbly. I divide my love for the puffer jacket, wool coat and faux fur equally every single year and have no problem at all investing in the right coat in all three shapes if they steal my heart.”

“This year I’ll be looking for a super long wool coat – probably double-breasted or slightly fitted. I’ll be teaming it with extremely long straight or slightly flared-leg jeans and a pointed shoe or boot with some exaggerated collars or a fitted roll-neck jumper. Classic and very cute!”

“The idea of a short ‘90s cropped puffer – worn with oversized cargo pants and fabulous trainers are great for stylish sporty days.”

The best camel coats to buy now:

Shop my edit of the best high street and designer camel coats below.

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