The duffle coat is back – and better than ever
When I first caught images of Altuzarra’s autumn/winter 2024 collection, I was taken by the sense of playfulness with which Joseph Altuzarra approached timeless pieces — most notably a look that included a classic duffle coat in a surprisingly bold yellow hue, styled with a dramatic ruffle-collared knit and a pillbox hat. Clearly, timeless doesn’t have to mean boring. With a history that dates back to 19th Century British sailors, the duffle coat has spent enough time in the fashion vernacular to earn its stripes as a sartorial signature, but as of late, designers are finding ways to take the codes of something old and make them feel fresh again.
Named for the Belgian town where duffel fabric was produced (duffle bags get their name from the same locale), the coat took off across Europe, with its popularity growing especially with students post–World War 2 due to surplus stock. The signatures of the coat, besides a durable wool fabric, include patch pockets, toggle buttons, and often weather-resistant touches like a bucket hood for rain or a fastenable neck strap to keep wind at bay. Due to its functional beginnings, this is an autumn/winter coat designed to keep you warm through any sort of inclement weather. Style-wise, it has had a series of resurgences over the years, most recently among the British contingency of the indie-sleeze era, some of whom are helping to repopularise it once again. (Alexa Chung posted an Instagram photo wearing one back in October.)
On the catwalk, other designers have also found ways to put their own spins on the style, with luxury labels like Khaite and Lemaire and contemporary houses like Toteme all mixing and matching the classic details to fit within their own vernaculars. Read on to shop the best duffle coats for women.
Wool Coat
On the autumn/winter 2024 catwalk, Joseph Altuzarra debuted this sunny yellow duffle coat — a bold and mood-boosting outerwear option for the season. Herringbone wool fabric, patch pockets, and classic toggle buttons balance the bright colour with classic touches.
Faux-Fur Toggle Coat
If you love the furry look of shearling but can’t afford the steep price, this faux-fur style from Zara fulfils the vibe at under £100. The cozy oversize silhouette is great for adding a dressy touch to casual looks.
Melbo Coat
The dramatically tall collar and leather accents make this classic wool coat from Khaite a particularly appealing option for those who like to combine the practical with the stylish. The military influences add edge, while the tailored silhouette makes this a timeless buy.
x JW Anderson Wool Blend Duffle Coat
Uniqlo’s ongoing collaboration with British designer Jonathan Anderson has garnered buzz for a reason: The pieces are wearable, but always with a playful twist. This duffle coat has all of the enduring details you’d expect, but colour-contrasting patches add a modern flair.
Wool Duffle Coat
An excellent find in the winter sales, this wool camel coat from Maison Margiela comes with chunky toggles, statement pockets and poncho-inspired sleeves.
Short Coat With Toggles
Winter’s chilly temps come with wide fluctuations. On days when you don’t need something that sweeps the floor, this cropped coat strikes the perfect balance of classic and cool. Try styling it with relaxed jeans, or swap in a silk skirt for something dressier.
Wool Cashmere Duffle Coat
This timeless take from Burberry is one that is heading straight to our Christmas wish-list. It features the brand’s signature check-print interior, along with an all-weather hood and toggle buttons.
Hooded Wool Duffle Coat
Though toggle buttons are often a signature of the duffle coat, Cos’ take is slightly more refined, with a double-breasted long silhouette reflective of a typical trench. For the minimalist, this coat allows you to tap into the trend on your own terms. Try styling it over a floaty white dress for a stark contrast in texture and colour.
Black Castle Coat
Try something a bit off the beaten path with this version of the duffle coat by Belgian brand Sofie D’Hoore. Unique rope toggle details and an ultra-slouchy shape set this style apart, meant for the fashion girl who loves to add special pieces to her wardrobe.
Leather-Trimmed Jacket
Treat yourself to a jacket that will keep you cosy all winter long. Totême’s shearling jacket will make you feel like you’re leaving the house in a warm blanket. The contrasting leather details and metal hardware put a dressy spin on things.
Toggle Jacket
For something sleek and elegant that you will turn to for seasons to come, look to Róhe's 100 per cent wool jacket with toggle fastenings. Pair with jeans or tailored trousers and ballet flats for a chic weekend look.
Midi Duffle
Go ahead, indulge in a bit of flair this winter. A cape-effect duffle coat brings just a little bit of extra drama to your seasonal dressing.
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