So winter is finally here, actually that’s a complete lie isn’t it. The weather has been freezing for ages with each morning looking like a drunken Mother Nature has been a bit too liberal in applying the body glitter on her way to the club. But worse than winter truly kicking in it’s January. The month we all struggle to shift the turkey baby we grew over Christmas, figure out exactly how those credit cards are going to get paid off before our next holiday (especially as 0% balance transfer deals barely exist anymore), get to the gym, be better people, save the world, cure cancer, develop a teleporter to avoid the commute and in general end all suffering. We try desperately hard to do all of this for a week, maybe two and then berate ourselves as we settle into our old ways no slimmer than when we started but now with the extra expense of a gym we’ll barely look at. Oh I am full of the joys of spring aren’t I…no well that’s because it’s still winter and rotten without even Christmas to look forward to. Grrr grrr bah humbug grrr!!! And other such grumpy noises.

But wait all is not in fact lost!! In case you’ve been under a rock, (which if any of your hangovers were as bad as mine you may well have), there is some good news. Its time for the SALES!!! A time when the cathedrals of consumerism admit they’ve fleeced us and sell the goods we covet at more reasonable prices! Bring it on! And good luck getting between me and that bargain!

So now is the perfect time to spurge the remaining credit and cash on an absolute essential. A winter coat!! Its freezing and you need it. Not only that but thanks to the sales you can be clever, get something simple and stylish, that will last several seasons. Now once again here’s where men are lucky. Our fashion isn’t really the subject of great whims of fancy, trends come and go yes, but not at the frenetic pace of womenswear. This means even something edgy this season will more than likely still look great next season.

Also for once this is a time when sales actually co-exist with the products we need when we need them. The summer sales getting rid of stacks of shorts, t-shirts, and flip-flops are great but with autumn breathing down our necks not entirely practical. Now however we have at least another two months of tempestuous weather freezing us to the core. So go grab a new coat, its warmth will make that trek into the dark morning or night just a bit more bearable.

I’ve said before winter is a huge asset to menswear, from layering 3 piece suits that hide the turkey baby of Christmas, to the brilliant opportunities to accessorise with scarves and hats, and the winter coat is no exception. Shy away from the quilted gilets, puffa jacks and parkas and head straight to the proper coats. Trenches, Covets, Great Coats, and Military looks all provide opportunities to enhance your style.  Check below for a great photo of the Sartorialist looking effortlessly cool in his Burberry chatting and strolling through Paris.

Personally I get as long a coat as possible without looking like I’ve just escaped the Matrix, that has strong shoulders and a nipped in waist. I may have a million layers underneath but that’s no excuse to look like the Michelin man. Double breasted can widen you if there only 4 buttons, but the military styling with 8 or more buttons down the front can make you look taller and slimmer.

As for colours, don’t be afraid to grab the camel and neutral colours, it’ll brighten your whole outfit and need not look like a football manager. If you looking to dress down, a short denim jacket underneath an open charcoal coat will keep you warm give you an edge on others. If it’s truly cold enough to emasculate brass monkeys, pop your collars and wrap yourself up in oversized college scarf, or even this season’s snood. You’ll be surprised at the versatility of great coat, remaining a wise choice long into spring where it can be worn over t-shirts and fine gauge knits to keep you warm in unpredictable weather.

So there’s my eulogy on a decent winter coat, spend a little more than planned but wisely, and you will be set for a couple of seasons. Getting that coat is reason enough to brave the general melee of the sales, though thankfully I have mine for this season so instead I’ll be encouraging others to risk life and limb, while I enjoy a pint or two in the pub. (Who am I kidding there are way more things I need! Get out of my way! And I don’t care if it’s a bit small I’m on a diet and exercise regime which means I will definitely fit into it by February…or March….April most definitely April!)