The autumnal chill has fully settled in, leaving Londoners delving into their winterwear wardrobes in the name of warmth. Afghan coats parade down Portobello, oversized puffers are the Hackney go-to and Chelsea becomes a sea of toasty woollen numbers, peppered by the odd trench or two. The cute bandeau bikinis, sequinned pareos and barely-there tank tops feel like a distant dream, lost to the memories of European summers abroad and chic Mediterranean mooching.
Yet, a new silhouette is becoming increasingly popular among the style set, and it’s a particularly nostalgic one. Duffle coats are officially on the up. Sported recently by the likes of It-Brit Alexa Chung, the toggled piece is coming to dominate both the high street and high fashion. Defined by its distinctive silhouette - a large hood, a straight, shapeless fit and classic wooden toggle button-up design, the duffle is a mainstay of winter fashion, beloved for its charming childhood connotations. Slip into the insulated coat and you’ll feel like a pint-sized Victorian child braving the 19th-century chill. A win in our book.
The duffle coat has its roots in the late 19th century, initially crafted for the British Royal Navy. Its name comes from Duffel, a Belgian town famous for the dense woollen fabric used in the coat's iconic construction.
Designed to endure harsh weather at sea, the original coat design featured a hood, oversized pockets, and toggle fastenings for easy use with gloves. Gaining prominence during World War II, it transitioned to civilian wardrobes post-war. Designers like Jean Paul Gaultier, Victoria Beckham, Prada, Louis Vuitton and Burberry have since reimagined the duffle coat, blending its utilitarian origins with modern fashion, making it a timeless piece in contemporary collections.
© GC ImagesDesigned to endure harsh weather at sea, the original coat design featured a hood, oversized pockets, and toggle fastenings for easy use with gloves. Gaining prominence during World War II, it transitioned to civilian wardrobes post-war. Designers like Jean Paul Gaultier, Victoria Beckham, Prada, Louis Vuitton and Burberry have since reimagined the duffle coat, blending its utilitarian origins with modern fashion, making it a timeless piece in contemporary collections.
© ImaxtreeHence, the humble duffle is a true seasonal staple. Easy to pair with jeans and a chunky knit, the timeless piece is a fun choice - sported by both Paddington Bear and fashion muse Bridgette Bardot in the 1960s flick The Truth. Now that's what we call range.
Discover the dreamiest duffles on the market and invest in an enviable new winter coat today.
Best duffle coats for AW25:
Victoria Beckham Hooded Duffle Coat Hooded Duffle Coat
Victoria Beckham
Imbued with nostalgic appeal, this duffle dream by Victoria Beckham feels super versatile for everyday wear. The caramel tone feels rich and earthy, and I would definitely size up to team with slouchy wide-leg trousers and leather loafers for coffee dates out.
Wool Blend Short Duffle Jacket
John Lewis
Tap into utilitarian chic with John Lewis' cropped duffle in army green. Ideal for throwing on when the weather cools, this wool-blend pick comes complete with large pockets and toggle detailing - a functional fashion statement.
Cardinham Duffle Coat
Seasalt Cornwall
A classic pick for the traditionalists among us, Seasalt Cornwall's navy duffle is as timeless as they come. Cut in a sleek navy colourway, the toasty number looks as if it has been plucked straight from Alexa Chung's wardrobe. Now that's a selling point.
Melody Wool Duffle Coat
Barbour
Leave it to Barbour to create a plush heritage piece to add to your winter wardrobe. The brand's tan-toned coat is a keeper, fitted with a handy hood for combatting the downpour and classic toggles for that touch of childhood nostalgia.
Egg-Shaped Duffle-Coat
CELINE
Love a lick of luxury? We'd suggest looking to CELINE. The brand's egg-shaped duffle is the epitome of extravagance - and not just because of the price tag. Made from 100 per cent cashmere, the coat features a striking yellow tartan lining, accented with sleek toggles and a divine black colourway for ample styling opportunities.
F&F Faux Fur Toggle Coat in Brown
Tesco
The perfect choice for those on a budget, this charming chocolate faux fur coat is a warming addition to your winter wardrobe. Complete with duffle inspired toggles and a collarless design, this snug piece is set to become a sophistciated staple.
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