The classic mother of the bride coat dress is a favourite among the likes of Princess Kate, Zara Tindall, and Princess Beatrice, loved for being a timeless cover-up that's smart, yet feminine. There's barely a royal engagement go by where you don't spot a royal wearing one.
A coat dress ticks all the boxes for many an occasion, from weddings to christenings to the races, and can be as modest (think long sleeves and midi length) or as sexy (a mini blazer or tuxedo dress is uber chic) as you need, or want, it to be.
- The classic coat dress: The Fold Palmerston Sculpt Stretch Crepe Dress, £375
- The cool coat dress: Karen Millen Trench Coat Dress, £179.40 / $319
- Plus size coat dress: Phase Eight Sienna Tux Dress, £229 / $500
- The chic blazer dress: Anthropologie Joelle Mini Blazer Dress, £164
- The cream coat dress: The Fold Palmerston Dress, £535
What is a coat dress?
A coat dress is a dress that has coat elements. Usually with a collar or lapel, they can be opened by a front enclosure, typically buttons. A coat dress is often made from slightly thicker material than cotton, and most commonly has long or three-quarter sleeves, although there are sleeveless options.
The most popular type of coat dress is the style Princess Kate wears, with a fit-and-flare silhouette that nips in at the waist with long or half-sleeves, and has either has a collar or wider neckline with lapel.
If Kate’s style is a little too classic for you, look to Meghan Markle for your more modern coat dress inspiration. The mum of two favours the tuxedo dress, a cooler version of the classic coat dress that is essentially an elongated version of a blazer or tuxedo suit jacket.
When to wear a coat dress
Occasion wear and coat dresses go hand in hand – you can wear one to Ascot, a christening or a wedding. You'll find coat dresses for weddings a popular choice as a mother of the bride outfit, or mother of the groom of course.
How to wear a coat dress
Wearing a coat dress is easy, as it’s a one and done type of outfit. They work best with a closed-toe heeled shoe, such as a court shoe, or a heeled espadrille - Princess Kate and her Catherine Walker coat dresses really are your best reference. Due to their tailored nature, a structured bag or clutch is your ideal accessory.
Shop the best coat dresses
1/6
Karen Millen Tailored Cotton Trench Belted Full Skirted Midi Dress
© Karen MillenEditor's Note:
"This sophisticated dress is a feminine twist on the classic trench coat. With double breasted fastening, notched collar and full, elegant skirt you can dress this up for garden parties and the races."
2/6
The Fold Palmerston Sculpt Stretch Crepe Dress
© The FoldEditor's Note:
"A chic take on a coat dress, with a stylish bodycon silhouette, bracelet sleeves and a slash neckline. The seams sculpt the figure, so it's a flattering fit for all body shapes too.
"The boucle material elevates it even further."
3/6
Phase Eight Sienna Tux Dress
© Phase EightEditor's Note:
"Phase Eight's coat dress is spot on for a wedding. The traditional fabric covered buttons are an elegant detail, while the classic boat neck is flattering whatever your figure.
"It also comes in pale pink."
4/6
Gina Bacconi Anne-Marie Taffeta Dress
© FRASERSEditor's Note:
"Elegant with its elongated neckline, cinched in waist and fit and flare skirt style, wear with matching accessories to make a stylish impact."
5/6
River Island Yellow Lace Trim Blazer Dress
© River IslandEditor's Note:
"The butter yellow trend is reimagined in this polished, sharp blazer dress with sweet lace trim."
6/6
Sosandar Black Double Breasted Blazer Dress
© SosandarEditor's Note:
"For a classic, smart look, a structured blazer dress is always a wise investment."
How I chose the best coat dresses for women
- Royal inspiration: Having written about royal style for the past six years at Best Quality Designer Handbag , I'm au fait with the types of dresses our favourite royals wear and I've found as many high street versions that have all the markings of a royal worthy coat dress.
- Price: The very nature of a coat dress means that, a lot of the time, it comes with a high price tag but I've done some digging to find a few that are on the more affordable side.
- Availability: All of the pieces were available in a variety of sizes at time of publication.
