Autumn Essentials: Four Durable, Stylish Jackets Built to Last Years

As the leaves begin their golden transformation and that familiar autumn chill settles in, there's something wonderfully exciting about refreshing your outerwear collection. This season isn't just about staying warm, it's about embracing British craftsmanship, timeless style, and pieces that'll become your faithful companions for years to come.

Think of your autumn wardrobe like a well-curated toolkit. Just as you wouldn't use a hammer for every job, you need different jackets for different moments in your life. From unpredictable British weather to smart country occasions, here are four investment pieces that'll have you covered, quite literally, no matter what autumn throws your way.

1. The Louise Deluxe Check Wax Coat: Your Weather-Defying Champion

Picture this: you're walking through the countryside on a drizzly November afternoon, and whilst everyone else is huddling under inadequate raincoats, you're striding confidently, perfectly dry and utterly stylish. That's the magic of the Louise Deluxe Check Wax Coat.

This isn't just any waterproof coat, it's a firm favourite for good reason. Made in England from traditional British wax, the Louise boasts full water repellency and windproof protection that actually works. The classic check pattern adds a touch of sophistication that elevates it far beyond ordinary rainwear.

What makes Louise truly special is how it flatters any body type. The fitted waist creates a beautiful silhouette, while the fishtail style at the back, with two adjustable straps, adds both visual interest and practical coverage. Inside, you'll find corduroy and suede on the collar and warm cotton lining, little luxuries that make chilly, rainy afternoons feel rather lovely instead of miserable.

The two-way zip gives you freedom of movement, and the detachable hood means you can adapt to those rare British sunny days without looking overprepared. With generous pockets for essentials, the Louise is the coat that'll see you through everything from dog walks to country shows, all whilst looking effortlessly polished. While it is water repellent & windproof,  after a period of time, you will need to re-wax areas such as the stitching; you can purchase a can of wax spray here.

2. The Burghley Navy Check Zipped Gilet: The Perfect Layering Piece

If there's one item that embodies the phrase "autumn essential", it's a beautifully crafted gilet. The Burghley Navy Check Zipped Gilet is your answer to those tricky in-between days when a full coat feels too much but a jumper alone won't cut it.

The Burghley Navy Gilet is the perfect companion for gusty days. Structured with capped sleeves and adorned with an adjustable belt at the back, this gilet is the epitome of sophistication. It comes with two handy pockets and boasts a beautiful paisley lining, all crafted with British wool in England. The metal front zip adds a robust, high-quality feel, while the fitted style ensures you look smart whether you're layering it over our Cable Knit Oat Jumper for weekend walks or pairing it with our Cassandra Ivory White Shirt for a more formal look. You can also complete the look with our matching Bella Shorts. What's brilliant about a gilet is its versatility. It keeps your core warm whilst allowing your arms freedom of movement, perfect for everything from mucking out stables to navigating busy farmers' markets. The Burghley strikes that ideal balance between practical country wear and stylish everyday fashion.

3. The Grantham Wool Jacket: Your Go-Anywhere Blazer

Some pieces just make you stand taller. The Grantham Wool Jacket is one of those transformative garments that instantly elevates any outfit, whether you're heading to a business meeting or meeting friends for Sunday lunch.

Beloved for capturing autumnal charm, the Grantham represents refined elegance at its finest. Crafted in herringbone tweed with a subtle check in classic navy tones, it’s enriched with delicate touches of burgundy, mustard, and turquoise that perfectly encapsulate the festive period and cooler months ahead. It's the kind of jacket that makes autumn feel special rather than simply cold.

True to WG’s signature style, it boasts velvet cuff and pocket trims, finished with antique brass hardware for an understated heritage charm. Perfect for elevating both countryside strolls and city afternoons, Grantham is where tradition meets contemporary sophistication.

4. The Demelza Coffee Coat: The Ultimate Statement Piece

Every wardrobe needs that one show-stopping piece that makes people stop and ask, "Where did you get that coat?" The Demelza Coffee Coat is precisely that piece, a luxurious, conversation-starting coat that embodies everything wonderful about British wool craftsmanship.

This classic, long-lined coat features rich coffee tones in a stunning checked tweed that catches the light beautifully. The traditional V-neck design is timeless, whilst the contrast velvet detailing on the collar and pockets adds a luxurious touch that speaks to the coat's quality. It's fully lined, ensuring comfort and warmth throughout the colder months.

The unique WG signature cuff detail adds depth to the design, it's these thoughtful finishing touches that make the Demelza special. Muted brass buttons complement the rich tones of the wool, whilst the generous pockets are both practical and beautifully integrated into the design. An embroidered lion emblem adds the final flourish of distinction.

What makes the Demelza a worthwhile investment is its versatility and longevity. This is a coat that works as beautifully over our Nina Navy High Waisted Jeans and Beth Tan Suede Boots for weekend outings as it does with our Montana Long Skirt for more formal occasions. The longer length provides excellent coverage and creates an elegant silhouette, whilst the quality wool ensures it'll remain a wardrobe staple for years to come.

Building Your Autumn Wardrobe

Think of these four pieces as the cornerstones of your autumn outerwear collection. The Louise handles wet weather with style, the Burghley adds practical versatility, the Grantham elevates everyday looks, and the Demelza provides that special occasion polish. Together, they cover every autumn scenario you're likely to encounter.

Investing in quality British-made pieces like these isn't just about looking good, it's about supporting traditional craftsmanship and buying pieces that'll serve you faithfully for years rather than months. When you calculate cost per wear over a decade rather than a season, the value becomes undeniable.

This autumn, treat yourself to pieces that'll make you excited to step outside, whatever the weather.