As we head into autumn, we’re betting a cosy weatherproof parka coat will become your most worn buy of the season

Those few blissful days of early September when we resurrected our summer dresses and sandals are long forgotten. It seems like autumn has truly arrived in all its blustery, wet glory. In fashion terms that means making the switch to chunky boots and cosy coats. And none are more practical than the versatile parka.

While we stan the shacket – it’s a brilliant option to layer under a thicker coat – sometimes you need a coat that actually, you know, keeps you warm and keeps the rain at bay. A parka is the one.

For fashion history fans, parkas originated in Canada, with fur versions worn by the indigenous people there for hundreds of years. But parkas really had their breakout moment in the middle of last century. Worn as military outerwear during the two world wars, the iconic fishtail style was adopted by mods in the Sixties. Ideal for keeping warm and dry when whizzing around on a scooter, parkas are still based on the practical elements of waterproof – or at least weatherproof – outer; padded, insulated inner; and cosy hood, often lined with fake fur. 

When you’re styling a parka think about the proportions of your body. These coats hit longer, usually to your thighs, so skirts or dresses that end at the same point look balanced. Equally, baggy wide leg trousers and a voluminous coat can end up drowning any body shape so straight leg jeans or trousers look slicker.

So which parka will you choose? Marks & Spencer’s parka is guaranteed to be cosy with their patented Stormwear™ tech and Barbour’s waxed version will keep you dry. Deadwood’s leather parka is cool for city wear and we are so here for a camo parka. If your budget stretches, Saint Laurent’s version is a wear-forever buy, but All Saints have a great option too. If sustainability is your priority, The Re-Pete Project’s unisex pull-on recycles 29 plastic bottles in every coat.

Winter? Do your worst! Keep scrolling for our edit of the best parkas to add to cart…

Read more from GLAMOUR UK Fashion Director at large Alex Fullerton here or follow her on Instagram @alexandrafullerton