As autumn looms and college begins again, this season is all about combining weather-appropriate wraps with some studious sartorial statements. Thankfully, 2014 sees humble coats, jackets and capes get a glamorous makeover, elevating simple cover-ups into serious trend pieces.

Plaid coats, capes and sweaters evoke a studious elegance, as seen in the collections by Kenneth Cole, Thakoon and Victoria Beckham. Oversized is the way to go – though ensure your silhouette remains strong by teaming the large tops with skinny jeans or short skirts that show off your legs. Don’t worry about cold legs – the tall boot is back with a vengeance, so go knee-high to be proper, thigh-high to be provocative. Chunky and fluffy knits are also back, as Edun and Helmut Lang’s cosy collections demonstrated. Embrace collegiate chic with a thigh-skimming jumper dress, or nip in a thick jumper with a glamorous belt to emphasise your waist.
Metallics are in, with Derek Lam’s emerald coats lighting up the catwalk and silver evoking a cheekily retro glance back to ‘80s audacity. But if you really want a splash of colour, look no further than this season’s fabulous, fun and flirty faux furs. Inspired by Marc Jacobs’ irresistibly candy-coloured cropped creations, Calvin Klein’s pretty pink cover-ups and Thakoon’s ‘70s-paletted offerings, Penneys and Topshop have wonderfully technicolour coats that will evoke the trend perfectly without breaking the bank.
If fur feels a bit full-on, feel free to play with luxurious layers. Silk-patterned kimonos are still very much in vogue, and look fantastic clashed and contrasted with heavier fabrics such as woollen wraps or knitted cardigans. You might also consider blending high heels with sensuous sheer tops for a sexy interpretation of a sensible trend.
And if you’re feeling lazy, never underestimate the power of a long coat. Duster jackets and oversized boyfriend blazers can be thrown over dresses or skinny jeans, and instantly add a sense of effortless, pulled-together elegance. Team with a great handbag and you’re ready to turn lectures into a fashion masterclass.