Six of the best military coats

Khaki gold button coat

FROM: River Island

PRICE: 79.99

COMMENT: Called the Peron coat, this definitely has a dictatorial feel to it, with its high collar, gold button and epaulettes. But a simple shape, despite the embellishment.

SUITS: Slim to medium.

KEY ACCESSORY: Brown stud clog boot, 99 at Bertie.

Khaki/grey belted coat

FROM: Topshop

PRICE: 125

COMMENT: Another high fashion number, this time from Topshop, and it's an unusual and stylish coat, to fling over your jeans or your party dress.

SUITS: All shapes and petites.

KEY ACCESSORY: Black buckle wedge boots, 130 at Bertie.

Khaki wool and shearling coat

FROM: Burberry Prorsum at Cruise

PRICE: 2,030

COMMENT: Why does this remind me of Mr Tumnus in Narnia? Rather fabulous, with its shearling skirt, but perhaps steer clear of furry boots.

SUITS: Slim to medium and petites.

KEY ACCESSORY: Black suede shearling lined hiking boots,

85 at Urban Outfitters.

Riding style mac

FROM: Jane Norman

PRICE: 60

COMMENT: Super-smart and super-flattering with its fitted style and flared skirt, and love the sheeny but neat buttons. Not a bad price too.

SUITS: Slim, curvy and pear shapes.

KEY ACCESSORY: Black fur cuff boot, 35 at Marks & Spencer.

Green panel front coat

FROM: Monsoon

PRICE: 155

COMMENT: Super smart and slightly sexy. Would look gorgeous over filmy pink chiffon dress or over navy slim-leg trousers. Excellent buy.

SUITS: Apple and pear shapes.

KEY ACCESSORY: Brown leather boot, 95 at Urban Outfitters, on 0203 219 1940 www.urbanoutfitters.com.

Fitted double button coat

FROM: Hobbs

PRICE: 239

COMMENT: This coat has a lovely sleek and fitted shape and the long double rows of buttons will flatter many figures. Will look good for ever and ever.

SUITS: All shapes and sizes.

KEY ACCESSORY: Wedge lace-up boot, 19.99 at Internacionale.