Fall Trend Report: Coats

By The Inside Source
September 1, 2010

Shopping for outerwear isn't always at the forefront of our minds come steamy late summer days. But if you want to snag that perfect fall coat before there's a mad scramble online, then starting your search now is a veteran move. Early bird shoppers don't have to go it alone though. We have a handy preview of autumn's best toppers. To our relief, the fall runways have been full of decidedly grown-up options that range from ladylike and classically put together to tough-enough to handle even the most inclement of weather patterns. Check out some of our best picks to invest in now, and you'll be covered before autumn's fickle breezes start to blow.

Cropped Little Jacket

After a few seasons of trying out the deconstructed look (and finding out its better left to fey, pretty and skinny things), we love that a ladylike silhouette is back in style. A cropped little jacket (a category that's risen 33 percent over last year on eBay) in bouclé or tweed gives off that tres chic Coco Chanel vibe. We particularly favor femme collarless versions or try one in velvet for a touch of the lush life.

Roll over items for details

NEW Zara Tweed Jacket

(buy it now price, $103.20)

Vintage '50s Blue & White Cropped Bouclé Jacket

(buy it now price, $39)

Cropped Rose Velvet Jacket

(starting bid, $9.99)

Cynthia Rowley (Photo by Scott Wintrow/Getty Images)

Military Inspired

Get in line! Ok, well not literally, but a quick way to get your wardrobe ready for autumn is to add a touch of army spirit. Military coat listings have risen 16 percent on eBay over last year. For those who love classics, a sharp double-breasted wool coat is always in fall fashion. For a credible military vibe, look for detailing such as epaulets or metal buttons in brass or brushed silver. On warmer nights, a lighter cotton jacket will do, and this one we found in olive has just the right amount of zip detail to keep things interesting.

NEW Gap (Product) Red Military Coat

(buy it now price, $99.99)

NEW Urban Outfitters Mod Punk Military Jacket

(current bid, $16.99)

NEW Military Style Cotton Field Coat

(buy it now price, $64.89)

Marc by Marc Jacobs (Photo by Chris Moore/Catwalking/Getty Images)

Camel

This classic hue exudes class, but lest you think the neutral color comes off too stodgy, look for this season's key updates: leather or fur accents are big and the cape is having a revival moment. eBay has 46 percent more camel coat listings this year than last, so you should have no trouble finding plenty to choose from. We like this Mackage design with leather trim, which could do well on a number of age ranges. Leather lovers can swap in their usual black leather jackets for a camel version—a style so versatile it pairs well with tailored grays or laidback denim. Meanwhile, trendsetters can try out a jaunty cape over their fall threads.

Mackage Camel Coat With Leather Trim

(buy it now price, $399.99)

NEW 3.1 Phillip Lim Camel Leather Jacket

(buy it now price, $829)

Topshop Camel Cape

(buy it now price, $230.5)

Jeffrey Monteiro Fall 2010 (Photo courtesy of Jeffrey Monteiro)

Fur

Whether you love the real stuff or prefer yours in Bambi-friendly faux, fur is all rage this coming season. (And as such, listings are up 25 percent on eBay.) Aside from keeping you perfectly warm, fur is about adding texture to your closet. Pay mind to what type you're looking for. Divas will like fox's dramatic pile, while sheared beaver and mink is lower on the volume but softer on the hand. And those looking for a bargain can find savings and soothe their conscience by going vintage—there are plenty of options, but for more versatility stick with a shorter fit that can be dressed down with jeans for everyday.

Vintage Saga Fur Fox Coat

(buy it now price, $99.99)

Vintage Mink Coat

(current bid, $18.70)

Monterey Faux Fur Coat

(buy it now price, $59.99)

Isabel Marant (Photo by Nathalie Lagneau/Catwalking/Getty Images)

Shearling

Another option for colder nights, shearling is back in a big way. We love the plush material for its perfect embodiment of country meets city style, but new shearling doesn't come cheap. Here's where a little investment can go a long way: A well-picked shearling coat can last for years and years. For those who aren't ready to deep dive into a serious purchase, try a vest or a faux shearling style to keep budgets within reason.