Rain Or Shine: 8 Stylish Waterproofs For Autumn
Practical need not equal pedestrian. From sleek Scandi raincoats to waxed jackets and polished parkas, these are the waterproofs we’ll happily wear whatever the forecast.
FAQs: Waterproofs
What should I look for when buying a waterproof coat?
First, consider what you actually need it for. A properly waterproof coat with a hood and good coverage is worth investing in for long walks and truly wet days, while a water-resistant waxed jacket may be quite sufficient for everyday dashes around town. Breathability, taped seams, adjustable cuffs and a decent hood are all worth looking out for if performance matters.
What is the difference between waterproof and water-resistant?
A waterproof jacket is designed to prevent rain from penetrating the fabric, while a water-resistant one will generally withstand lighter showers but may eventually let water through in sustained rain. Always check the individual garment specifications if staying completely dry is the priority.
Are waxed jackets waterproof?
Waxed cotton is highly water-resistant rather than necessarily fully waterproof. Its great advantage is longevity: look after a good wax jacket, reproofing it when required, and it can remain a stalwart of your wardrobe for years.
What style of raincoat is most versatile?
For maximum mileage, look for a relatively simple mid- or long-length silhouette in khaki, navy, black or another neutral. It should work just as happily over jeans and trainers as it does over smarter trousers, knitwear or a dress.
Can a waterproof coat actually be stylish?
Emphatically, yes. The latest crop borrows from some of autumn’s strongest outerwear shapes – oversized parkas, A-line coats, funnel necks and heritage jackets – meaning there is no longer any reason for your wet-weather layer to feel like a sartorial compromise.
How should a waterproof coat fit?
Unless you are specifically buying a close-fitting performance jacket, leave enough room underneath for autumn and winter layers. A slightly generous cut also tends to look more contemporary and means you can add a chunky knit when temperatures drop.
What colour waterproof should I buy?
Khaki, navy and black are enduringly useful, but a raincoat is also a brilliant place to introduce colour. A shot of yellow or forest green can lift an otherwise neutral autumn wardrobe – and feels particularly cheering on the sort of grey day for which you bought it.
By
Nancy Alsop
·
Published September 2026
Nancy is a magpie for the best in design and culture.
