When the leaves start to turn and the first signs of winter become apparent, the most fashion-conscious women will be pulling out their voluminous coats and jackets. A trend embraced by some of the world's best designers, "big" was in when it came to the Fall 2012 runways, and you should be thankful. Here's why: more room in your outerwear means more warmth for you standing on those frigid subway platforms or scraping off the previous night's ice from your windshield. You'll never have to worry that a fabulous chunky knit sweater will make for a too-snug coat and you'll be rocking a look that dates back many years, which is half the battle to a winning vintage piece. Whether you go old school or new, this is a must-have look for your cool days and chilly nights.
Max Volume: Learn How To Layer Up and Be Cozy in This Fall's Biggest Outerwear Trend
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Pink Ladies
One way to add an interesting focal point to a camel coat is by inserting a colorful lining. Can't find one on the market? You'd be surprised how affordable it is to take one to a tailor with instructions to replace the current lining with the one of your choice, even more so when you supply the fabric. Just a new lining on the front panels only will make all the difference. Wear it with your basic solid-color pieces for the lining to really stand out.
Jil Sander photo: IMAXtree
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Winter White
You've seen it mentioned here, and virtually everywhere, white is the daring and most fashionable color to be seen in once the cold weather hits. Make this your year to try it on for size. White will look divine over a nautical-striped top, a cable-knit fisherman's sweater, or your favorite go-to Sunday morning sweatshirt.
Céline photo: IMAXtree
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Well Waisted
Volume doesn't have to mean a shape-sacrificing silhouette. Take a hint from Alber Elbaz and belt your coat for an upscale, sophisticated look that's perfect for evening.
Lanvin photo: IMAXtree
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Blanket Chic
We know, the words blanket and chic don't normally enter your vocabulary one after the other. But trust us, Michael Kors and a host of other designers elevated styles that had campfire flare. This coat from Burberry that features a volumunous pleated skirt is right in line.
Burberry Prorsum photo: IMAXtree
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Boyfriend Style
We're starting to think the boyfriend "trend" is here to stay. After all, when has it ever not been provocative and sexy to add a touch of androgyny to your style? Try an oversized blazer in a traditionally masculine fabric like herringbone or donegal tweed.
Rachel Comey photo: IMAXtree
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Color Pop
If you've got a neutral wardrobe with few prints or you're looking for an accent coat, you're a prime candidate for something like this Rachel Comey bright orange number. Imagine how you'll turn heads! Keep your bottoms in basic black to give attention where it's due.
Rachel Comey photo: IMAXtree
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Tux Luxe
Going back to our discussion about boyfriend style, a coat with tux details like satin lapels is the black tie version of a boyfriend blazer. Paired with a stunning gown for opening nights or charity events, you cannot go wrong.
Stells McCartney photo: IMAXtree
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Caped Crusader
Upscale, yet still relatable and wearable to a number of occasions, what more could you ask for? Skinny jeans, ballet flats or heels, warm cashmere underneath, and maybe a pumpkin spice latte in your hand while you window shop on a brisk October weekend? Sounds like heaven to us.
Chloé photo: IMAXtree
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Ladylike Touch
Chloé is the arbiter of good taste, always feminine, always modern, always perfect. If you find a coat with volume that has lace detail, grab it. Then wear it with a pair of worn-in destroyed denim for contrast.
Chloé photo: IMAXtree
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One If By Sea
We couldn't make a list of winter coats without including a classic like this one. The proportion is increased to accomodate our modern sensibilities, but the gold buttons and navy color make us think of ships and quaint port towns on the east coast. Hmm, we can almost taste the warm lobster bisque and feel the fireside warmth. Plus, it goes with anything, save a ball gown.
Isabel Marant photo: IMAXtree
