If you indulge in a new coat this year, let it be camel. Camel is perhaps the most luxurious of neutrals and has appeared on the Autumn/Winter catwalks of MaxMara, Chloe and Philip Lim.

It’s not unusual in times of recession for fashion to turn back to basic, investment pieces. Camel coats were on last Winter’s catwalks and they’ve continued into this year. To be bang on trend opt for a double-breasted military style or a cape. Or for a camel that won’t date, go for a more traditional, gently draped, three quarter length. Textured fabrics like cashmere look best.

To wear it well your ensemble should be sophisticated, at Chloe and Gucci the camel coat was teamed with tailored trousers and the result was very polished and grown-up. It can be paired with nearly every colour, especially black, which adds to its appeal as an investment buy. If you shop wisely, you’ll have a wardrobe staple that will last you for years.

By Katie Prior