Sumptuously sexy and utterly sophisticated, winter’s toppers are a twist on the old classics. In a season where the collective conscience is one of sartorial security, designers have returned to the more traditional styles; think camel hair, pinstripes, tweed and double breasting.   Winter’s cover-ups offer a plethora of shapes and styles, but the emphasis is on sensible investment pieces. The classic Burberry trench has never gone out of style, but this season it returns to take the spotlight and with a whole social networking site dedicated to the appreciation of this particular topper, it’s never been more desirable.  Camel hair coats are soft, elegant and ever so comfortable and this has not escaped the clever designers at MaxMara, Derek Lam and the like, who have produced luxuriously velvety camel cover-ups you won’t ever want to take off.  If you like the elongating abilities of pinstripe materials, this is the season for you. With sophisticated brands like Yves Saint Laurent and more avant-garde designers such as Christopher Kane producing all manner of styles out of the fabric, you will not be disappointed.  Going for the English gentleman country casual look? Then this winter’s penchant for tweed will be right up your street. Head to Ralph Lauren who is flying the flag for the fabric, with some totally must-have tailored blazers. Speaking of blazers, the recent resurrection of 1980’s power dressing is still standing strong – you only need head to Balmain for the ultimate in shoulder dressing.  For those non-traditionalists out there, fear not. Leather, animal print or fur (faux, naturally) are also big this season. Be it blazer, biker or cropped, winter’s leather jackets are slick and will empower any ensemble. For the all out rock-chick look, team with skinnies, a studded bucket back and a pair of killer heels. Or give animal prints a try – they are an instant boost in the glamour stakes and rev up any outfit.  The key to wearing any coat this season with the utmost finesse, is to belt it. With the waist taking centre stage once again, cinching your cover-up is an instant ticket to style success. Everyone was doing it on the catwalk, so don’t miss out!  So, there you have – classic, cosy, comfortable and sophisticated styles are the real hits this season. There’s a plethora of toppers to choose from and you can be guaranteed that your investment will keep on giving, all season long.

Article by Stephanie Holding Fashion Editor at Stilorama Magazine. For the latest fashion and style news follow our popular fashion editor blog

 Picture captions:

-          Channel your inner country gent in Ralph Lauren tweed

-          Take a step back in time with YSL’s pinstripe ensemble

-          Leather up in Alexander Wang ’s biker chic

-          Take a walk on the wild side with Blumarine ’s leopard print