KEY POINTS:
If you are looking for a lightweight cover-up for winter the main options are the trench coat and the anorak/parka. The latter was shown by many designers last winter. So if you have one in your wardrobe, here's your chance to take it out and give it another
thrashing. Otherwise, there are plenty of new versions available.
The trench coat, on the other hand, either comes as a design classic or has been revamped in fancy fabrics (silk, satin, metallic finishes) and decidedly un-classic shades (purple, buttercup, silver, gold, emerald, ruby red).
The new-look trench coat is a designer item as well as appearing in the chain stores and catalogues, so the thrifty need not get shut out of the trend. If Wayne Cooper's coat (#1) tickles your fancy but not your wallet, Ezibuy have a satin one for $89.95 (in pewter, cobalt, emerald or raspberry). For a more classical look, the Wish trench coat (#2) at $229.95. Max and Farmers (#4) also have colourful cotton trench coats. These are not shower-proof, but give you the look.
Co-ordinate them with matching tops, tights and shoes (head-to-toe matching colours are now "in") or add patent leather accessories for a slick, polished look. Keep your hair and makeup fresh and minimal (add a strong lipstick if you look too washed-out) for effortless, "it girl" chic.
1 Wayne Cooper purple satin trench coat ($895) from Muse. Anouk silk satin blouse with decorative bow and ripple-frilled front ($198). Mi Piaci purple suede court shoes with silver leather piping ($260). Columbine opaque tights ($8.95). Cellini silver clutch bag ($159).
2 Wish cream trench coat ($229.95) from Lippy. Tibi printed silk shift dress ($595) from Muse. Mollini cream leather quilted ankle boots with black toes ($240). Levante luxury satin opaque tights ($24.99). Portmans wool cap with bow on side ($29.90).
3 Zambesi silver trench coat ($935). Ethnochic studded leather belt ($299) from Runway. Kate Sylvester polo neck jersey with built-in gloves ($295). Miu-Miu long leather boots with zips and buckled ankle strap ($1398) from Workshop. Emilio Cavallini silver tights ($38.50).
4 Ping Pong cotton trench dress ($119.99) from Farmers. Portmans polo neck short-sleeved sweater ($49.90). Mi Piaci patent leather ankle boots ($250). Cellini patent handbag ($110). Tights as before.