The Navy Coat Edit

 
Whenever I start considering adding a black coat to my wardrobe, I realise navy would be a better choice. It is a more forgiving colour and at least just as elegant as black, certainly more regal. Navy also leaves room to play with styles. Whether a classic peacoat (one of the permanent forms according to Yves Saint Laurent), a military outerwear (elegant and arresting) or a just below-the-knee androgynous, oversized topper (understated, modern and flattering), there is an enduring quality about each one of them. At the moment I’m developing a keen interest in a silhouette I haven’t worn much, the mid-calf length, which, in combination with a tailored military cut, suddenly feels so fresh (the photo above should give you a hint). But it’s equally true that this one and this one have won me over, too. Here are a few suggestions I’ve compiled for every price range.
 
 

 
photo: Claudia Knoepfel and Stefan Indlekofer for Vogue Paris, October 2012 | model: Kendra Spears styled by Capucine Safyurtlu