10 camel coats to buy now and wear forever

From Hollywood sirens to supermodels, First Ladies to royalty families, camel coats have been worn throughout history by the chicest women imaginable, and with excellent reason. They're versatile, flattering, and endlessly stylish. What other coat comes with such enduring appeal?

In fact, we'd consider camel coats among the best winter coats, whatever the decade or year. Yes, most clothing trends come and go, but we consider camel coats a perennial. The earliest incarnations of the wardrobe staple were swathes of fabric made from the ultra-soft hair of Bactrian camel. They were worn by wealthy Tartan and Mongolian rulers, and the material became synonymous with luxury. Though it’s now more common for camel coats to be cut from wool or cashmere (as well as polyester and other manmade fabrics), the style has retained all of its luxe status and never fails to spruce up any outfit. 

A bona fide fashion editor favorite, Max Mara’s signature honey-hued 101801 icon coat put the camel cover-up firmly at the top of the fashion agenda when it debuted in 1981. Almost forty years later, it remains as relevant and desirable as ever.

Where to buy the best camel coats

We've picked out 10 beautiful coats below, but if you want to browse generally then these are the best stores for camel coats: 

• Burberry (opens in new tab)—trench camel coats from $990/£950
• Hobbs (opens in new tab)—classic camel coats from $138.75/£89
• Mango (opens in new tab)—everyday classics from $79.99/£49.99
• Max Mara (opens in new tab)—designer outwear from $495/£335
• M&S (opens in new tab)—affordable camel coats from $50/£14

The best camel coats, as chosen by a fashion editor

The key to a camel coat with longevity is a timeless silhouette. From tailored to teddy-textured, camel coats come in many forms, with each one well-deserving a spot in your capsule wardrobe.

Of course we couldn’t resist including the ultimate fashion-editor fave. A bonafide icon, dating back to the ‘80s, it only seems to get more stylish over time. Crafted in Italy from a wool and cashmere-blend, it's oh-so-soft on the skin. It has a looser fit with draped sleeves and a belt to help define the waist and streamline the silhouette. Wear from one winter to the next and you’ll be the envy of every fashionista. 

• Browse all Max Mara coats at Net-A-Porter (opens in new tab)

The closest thing to stepping out in your dressing gown, a robe coat is the coziest of cover-ups. Famously worn by Marilyn Monroe, a robe coat makes for a feminine and flattering silhouette that oozes Hollywood glamour. This iteration from Mango has a large lapel-collar and an adjustable belt to cinch you in at the waist. The maxi length makes for an elegant finish and the wool content will ensure a toasty fit.

• Browse all Mango coats (opens in new tab)

We can’t get enough of the puffer coat this season and this beauty from British brand M&S is an absolute steal. Padded with a lightweight feather and down filling, it’s guaranteed to help you beat the chill. The high neck and detachable hood provide extra protection and the clever water-repellent technology will keep you dry too. Although the padded design gives it a more casual aesthetic, thanks to the wearable camel hue it’s still easy to weave into your winter wardrobe.

• Browse all M&S coats (opens in new tab)

This simplistic design from Zara has a relaxed fit for that borrowed-from-the-boys look. Ideal for layering over chunky jumpers, it hangs effortlessly over your figure with a statement button closure. Perfect for everyday wear, the lapel collar offers a flattering v-neckline on the bust. Pair with other neutral hues such as a cream knitted dress and tan boots for a chic winter-ready getup.

• Browse all Zara coats (opens in new tab)

No conversation about camel coats can be complete without the mention of a trench. A wardrobe staple in itself, when realized in camel tones, makes for a piece guaranteed to be worn forever. The OG Burberry trench coat is still as practical and stylish as ever. Crafted from cotton, it has all the traditional features including a storm flap, double-breasted fastening, a classic collar, and the iconic checked lining. 

• Browse all Burberry coats (opens in new tab)

Hobbs are pros at mastering contemporary and timeless pieces that help form the backbone of a capsule wardrobe and this coat is no exception. With a double breasted fastening and a built-in belt to highlight the waist, it’s flattering and feminine, with a military-inspired feel. It has a high wool percentage, crafted from Italian wool to keep you snug and warm. The lining uses recycled materials. Keep it buttoned up and pair with a shift dress and black knee-high boots.

• Browse all Hobbs coats (opens in new tab)

While the refined nature of the camel coat lends itself to smarter occasions, it can work for off-duty wear too. Case in point: this parka design. The best parka coats will give your outerwear a cooler edge and this one ticks all the boxes. It has an a-line shape for a flattering finish and easy movement. Considered details such as a removable faux-fur trim, zip-closure, and statement pockets give it extra style kudos.

• Browse all J. Crew coats (opens in new tab)

If you want your camel coat to have a rebellious spin, then let us introduce this dreamy aviator jacket from LK Bennett. Its shorter biker-style fit is perfect for petites whilst the sheepskin trip on the collar, cuffs and hemline give it a cool vintage finish. The buttery-leather fabric will only get better over time so a leather jacket is an investment piece you’ll love forever. Tap into that retro aesthetic and team with a pair of mom jeans and studded biker boots.

• Browse all LK Bennett coats (opens in new tab)

Chilly mornings and evenings call for snuggly, comforting layers in which to envelop ourselves, and this is where the teddy coat excels. The soft, nubbly texture is supremely toasty, meaning it’s a piece you’ll be longing to reach for all season long. What’s more, the chubby finish is perfect for adding stylish interest to plain outfits. So even on jeans-and-T-shirt days, you’ll still look like you’ve made an effort. This Next number is a front-runner with its longline length, relaxed fit and soft, cuddly texture.

• Browse all Next coats (opens in new tab)

This tailored camel coat will lend a smart finish to any outfit. Demonstrate its versatility and wear over swishy dresses, structured skirts, or your best jeans. This timeless choice from Reiss is a worthy investment piece. Pared-back and polished, it’s fully lined with a hidden button fastening and a peak lapel for a minimalist look with maximum impact. 

• Browse all Reiss coats (opens in new tab)