How do you keep out the elements and stay looking good? Seems our appetite for functional but fashionable outerwear never fades. The pull of the puffer is still strong, but AW19 is bringing so many different options to keep you snug. Time to zip up (or button up) and check out our top picks for women and men from Manchester Arndale and some of our neighbours over at New Cathedral Street.
Please note, prices shown are correct at time of blog publication and may change
Women
Milena Hoodie, £108 – All Saints
Do you go denim or hoodie? Make it both. With a chest-pocketed denim body and sweatshirt sleeves and hood, the Milena Hooded Denim Jacket is perfect for early Autumn. And it’s pretty snug on the inside as the months get colder.
Our verdict: one for an effortless transition from SS to AW19
Diamond Quilted Thermoregulated Hooded Coat, £690 – Burberry
Featuring Burberry’s archival vintage check lining, this all-new range incorporates 37.5® thermoregulation technology. Which, in a nutshell, means you never feel too hot or too cold. With a hidden zip and discreet Burberry lettering on the sleeve, it’s the perfect blend of high-end style and everyday practicality.
Our verdict: warmth and practicality wrapped up in one
Crop Icon Selvedge Denim Jacket, £122 – Gap
From the 1969 Premium Collection, the Crop Icon Selvdege Denim is one of their archival pieces, reworked and remixed for 2019. Featuring button flap patch pockets at the chest and slant pockets at the hips, the heritage is all in the detail. The denim itself is premium Japanese made on vintage shuttle looms.
Our verdict: denim with heritage
Barbour x Alexa Chung Patch waxed jacket, £430 – Harvey Nichols
The legendary Barbour jacket. Once the wax-coated preserve of aristocrats and gentleman farmers, it’s been a hit with a much wider audience for years now. This colour block version – a collaboration with Alexa Chung – is a more modern take on the old favourite. It should keep the rain off you too.
Our verdict: country cool
Faux Leather Biker Jacket, £49.99 – Zara
A leather-free reworking of the classic biker jacket. All the details are present and correct: the lapel collar, the front pockets with metal zip, the belt in matching fabric with buckle and the metal zip fastening.
Our verdict: achieve the leather look without the hefty price tag
Men
Raglan Harrington Jacket, £39 – Burton
Worn by James Dean in the classic 60s movie Rebel Without A Cause, the Harrington Jacket is a true icon. To their credit, Burton have stuck closely to the original design with just a few mods – like the internally ribbed collar and the (slightly) heavier fabric for a bit more warmth.
Our verdict: classic, practical, but still making a statement
Nike Re-issue Woven Jacket, £84.99 – Drome
Once the fashion staple of local legends The Stone Roses, the windbreaker makes a welcome return. At the forefront back in the day and still very much there, Nike have reworked a classic – with vibrant hues, zip pockets, bungee waistband and the mandatory swoosh.
Our verdict: a must-have for Manchester’s long-running rainy season
Max Ore Denim Mix Bomber, £215 – G-Star
A new take on the iconic military bomber jacket, the Max Ore Denim Mix Bomber was designed in collaboration with Formula 1 racing driver Max Verstappen. An easy straight fit combines with stand-up collar and zip closure to create a rugged, good-looking piece
Our verdict: classic military-inspired style
Coit Down Puffer, £160 – Levi’s
A universal favourite, the down-filled puffer jacket was originally invented in the 1930s to keep fishermen warm. In 2019, puffers have become the symbol of our love affair with outdoorwear. Trust Levi’s to keep it simple, stylish and warm – with zip closure, five pockets and vintage sportswear logo. Your go-to winter jacket.
Our verdict: let’s go huntin’ and fishin’
Men’s Blue Cotton-Blend Ripstop Popover Cagoule, £250 – Paul Smith
Understated style meets practicality in this stunningly simple design. Made from ripstop fabric and featuring quarter zip, storm flap and elasticated cuffs, this is a jacket designed to defy the elements. The front map pocket may never see a map, but it definitely looks the part.
Our verdict: way more stylish than a brolly