The temperature has definitely plunged. Parts of the south have been buried in snow and kids everywhere are nagging their parents to hit the slopes in the last week of the holidays.
Regardless of where you are, you've probably been layering up to keep out the cold. And the main key to your layering is surely your outermost layer - your coat.
Try to break the habit of planning your outfit, then throwing any old coat on top. I've always considered the coat an essential part of one's outfit, but being from Wellington, it has to be for a good nine months of the year!
I own four or five winter coats, so I can mix it up depending on what I'm wearing. But don't feel you have to go buy four coats now! My collection has been built up over many years, and you can do the same. Each time you buy a new coat, consider what shapes, colours and styles you already own. Mix it up with casual and formal options too. That way you'll avoid trying to explain to your partner why there are seven "oh-so-different" black coats hanging in the wardrobe.
And while it's easy to think black is your most versatile option, injecting some colour is actually a good idea. When it comes to rugging up, a pop of colour or great print can brighten your mood when the rest of your outfit is most likely in deep, wintry shades of black, grey, navy and plum.
As with any winter essential, if you're buying wool, opt for the highest possible wool content you can afford. But don't feel limited to wool. A leather, or good-quality pleather jacket will keep you just as toasty, as will a glamorous fur or faux fur.
As far as shapes go, opt for a similar fit to what you feel most fabulous in with dresses. If you prefer a nipped in, tailored look, go for the same in a coat. If boxier styles are more your cup of tea, then go that way with a bomber or cropped trench. By selecting a fit that suits your body type, you'll avoid looking like the Michelin man in Ghostbusters.
Another foolproof way to add some shape to your winter garb is to belt your coat. A nice medium or wide patent belt can add a great glam factor to any longer jacket. (I wouldn't normally belt anything shorter than hip length, as you need a decent amount of fabric below the belt.)
And finally, consider your local climate. It's all good and well buying the most fabulous cashmere dress coat, but if you live in the winterless north, you'll probably have few chances to wear it. In that case, a lighter rainproof jacket, or thick cotton blend might be more practical.
By the same token, a mid-weight trench won't cut it in the snow of Canterbury or gales of Wellington. If you're going to invest in a coat that makes you smile every time you put it on, you want to be able to wear it as often as possible!