Who are we kidding, raincoats and suits rarely go hand in hand. Right? Well, if you are a real stickler for what a raincoat is, then no. They don’t. But the great British weather has other ideas, meaning you will need waterproof coats or a stylish umbrella in your collection.

However, if you’re willing to turn away from the classic yellow slicker or nylon rain jacket, there are some very stylish options out there that will not only keep you dry but also turn heads. And, depending on the style of your suit, some of these might even make you look better than you do without a coat.

Below, we’ve put together 7 of the best and most stylish raincoats to match any colour suit, whether you’re wearing navy, grey, or black. So, let’s meet ’em!

Our Top Picks of Stylish Raincoats

First things first, let’s meet our top picks!

1. Burberry Heritage: Westminster

Since its inception, Burberry exudes elegance, luxury, and style, so it is no wonder that the “Westminster” is our top pick.

Available in three tones and updated in tumbled tropical gabardine for the new season, this striking tan coat features a double-breasted cut, belted waist, and large lapels that are perfect for framing your face.

Whether you choose to wear it with the matching tan suit or go for a more business-casual look dressed in navy, this coat will have you looking dapper as heck.

2. Aime Leon Dore: Unisphere

If you want to ditch the classics aside, here is a model that looks… different which many see as one of the most stylish raincoats available.

If you are not a member of the formal society and you prefer a more casual vibe even when you rock a suit, this coat is the right choice for you.

Available in royal green and purple, this waterproof Aimé Leon Dore “Unisphere” features a 3-piece hood and as many pockets as you’d ever need. It’s waterproof, it’s colourful and it will put a smile on your face even on a gloomy day.

3. Burberry Heritage: Kensington

Another classic style, but this time slightly cropped.

This coat is perfect for a rainy day. The Burberry Heritage “Kensington” mid-length coat’s made of waterproof and windproof cotton gabardine, so you’ll stay dry even in the worst weather. It comes in three different colours, so you can choose the one that best suits your outfit.

The coat is also cropped, so it won’t overwhelm your frame. Plus, it features Burberry signature details like their vintage check, epaulettes, a hook-and-eye collar closure, a gun flap, and belted cuffs so you can look stunning any day of the week.

4. Canali: Reversible

With the help of our Italian friend over at Canali, not only will you stay dry in the worst weather, but you’ll also look stylish and brilliantly put together.

This refined and practical design offers two versatile style options, grey and burgundy, making it perfect for men who love to express their personality through unique and refined items. Plus, the tailored sleeves and length make it the perfect fit for any frame.

On the rainy-day side of things, the water-repellent melange wool interior is fastened with visible buttons for the snug fit, and the real horn accessories give this coat a touch of luxury.

5. Mackintosh: St. Andrews

If you’re in the market for a stylish raincoat that falls to a mid-thigh length and will complement any colour suit, the St. Andrews coat from Mackintosh is truly a lovely option. Yes, this brand is why people reach for a Mac to stay bone dry.

This double-breasted coat is made from water-repellent cotton gabardine and features an adjustable eyelet belt, so you can tailor the fit to your figure. And, when you factor in the four available colours, you can see how this one model could be your go-to whenever you’re dressed to impress.

But the best thing is, this classic trench coat comes with an insulating lining, so you can keep warm even when it’s pouring rain.

6. The Row: Edward

Founded by the Olsen twins, The Row is a high-end fashion brand that’s known for its luxurious designs.

The Row’s Edward coat is constructed from a luxurious blend of alpaca and linen, this coat is sure to keep you warm (and dry) even if the gods have decided to open up the floodgates.

The coat features a belt to cinch at the waist, buttoned cuffs, and a storm flap for extra protection against the elements.

Sadly, it only comes in the liveliest and most vivid of all colours, beige, but hey, there’s something about being so neutral that’s kind of stylish in its own way. Not to mention it certainly won’t clash with your suit.

7. Tom Form: Micro Faille

Made from water-repellent polyester, this navy Tom Ford coat is designed to keep you dry and comfortable without compromising on style points.

The coat falls to a mid-thigh length, which makes it perfect for wearing with a suit, and the down quilted lining ensures that you stay warm even in the worst of weather.

Now, unlike many of the previous ones, this raincoat does not feature a belt, so you won’t get to show off that chiselled v-shape figure of yours. But the good thing is, this coat has a graceful fit to it, so you’ll look sharp and stylish without feeling constricted.

commuters wearing Stylish Raincoats

Understand The Difference

In order to make sure that your raincoat will serve you as soon as bad weather knocks on the door, it is important that you understand a few basic differences. Firstly these are raincoats, which aren’t quite the same as a waterproof jacket due to length and style; a coast is long and usually knee length, an a jacket usually hangs below the waistline. Both keep the rain off in wet weather, but only the raincoat keeps a lot more dry.

Water-resistant vs. Waterproof

When it comes to coats, there are three main types of materials:

  • Natural
  • Synthetic
  • Blends

Natural fibres like wool and cotton are super cosy and breathable but not waterproof, so they’re ideal for milder weather. Rain? Not so much. Only if they’re a treated rain jacket will they keep you dry.

Synthetic fibres like nylon and polyester are water-resistant but not waterproof, so they’re perfect for light rain or snow. They could probably protect you if it’s raining pitchforks, but I wouldn’t count it.

The blends combine the best of both worlds, offering both breathability and water resistance. Still no waterproofing, but close enough

So, what does this all mean? What’s the difference between water-resistant, waterproof and water repellent?

A well-made raincoat with a waterproof outer layer will keep you dry even if the frog-strangler hits. Water-resistant one? Not as much, but still decent. Water repellent means it won’t be absorbed by the material.

Wind-resistant vs Windproof

Rain usually brings a date and its name is wind. Knowing that; most raincoats are either windproof or wind-resistant. But what’s the difference?

Windproof coats are made with a special fabric that is designed to block out the wind completely. These coats are ideal for cold, blustery days and will have you feeling toasty in no time.

Wind-resistant coats, on the other hand, are made with a fabric that allows some air to pass through. This makes them more breathable, which makes them a better choice for active activities like hiking or skiing. However, they may not provide as much protection from the cold as a windproof coat.

Weatherproof

So, what’s a waterproof raincoat like? What does that even mean?

Well, there are a few key things to look for in a weatherproof coat.

You have to make sure that the coat is made from a durable fabric that can withstand gusts of wind and heavy rain.

Also, pay attention to the seams. Well-sealed or taped seams will help to prevent water from seeping through which will leave your alpaca wool suit nice and dry even if the geese are drowning.

For the ultimate weather-the-storm pick, choose a coat with a hood. It won’t look as dapper, but it’ll keep your head dry.

man in raincoat

 

How to choose the perfect raincoat to match your suit?

Now, let’s take a look at how to pick the best raincoats to match your suit. Remember what we said earlier, a rain jacket is shorter so won’t cover your suit properly, 

Fabric

Fabric is arguably the most important factor to consider when choosing a raincoat.

The most common fabric are polyester, nylon, wool and gabardine.

Polyester’s main advantage is that it’s water-resistant and dries quickly. However, it’s not as breathable as other fabrics, and unless it’s really well-made – it looks cheap.

Nylon is another popular choice for raincoats. It’s lightweight, durable and water-resistant. However, like polyester, it’s not very breathable.

Wool is a natural fibre that’s often used for high-end raincoats. It’s extremely durable and is cosier than your grandma’s hug. However, it’s not the best choice for a summer raincoat as it can be quite warm.

Gabardine is a woven fabric that’s often used for high-end suits. But also windbreakers. It has a very tight weave which makes it water and wind-resistant, or basically ideal for a raincoat.

Seams

It’s simple really… When you’re looking for a raincoat to keep you dry, look for sealed seams. That’s it.

If all of the seams on the coat have been taped and waterproofed so no water can get through – you’ll be as dry as a bone even in a heavy downpour.

Hood (optional)

Some people prefer to have a hood on their raincoats – I don’t. It just looks off. I’d rather rock an umbrella.

But, if you think you’ll need a hood, make sure that it is removable so that you can take it off when you don’t need it. However, if you’re often out in the rain, maybe you’ll want to lose a few style points in order to stay warm and dry.

Pockets

I’m a big fan of pockets. And not just for carrying around my hands.

Pockets are perfect for holding your phone, wallet, keys and any other bits and bobs you might need to take with you.

And, when it comes to raincoats, they can be a lifesaver. If you don’t want to carry an umbrella, you can stuff your pockets with a scarf or a hat to keep you dry if it starts showering.

Breathability

Breathability is an important factor to consider when choosing a raincoat. The last thing you’d want is to take your coat off and sport giant sweat stains underneath your arms just because you didn’t want to choose a different fabric.

Anyway, you’ll want a coat that will allow your body to breathe so look for breathable fabrics, avoid nylon and polyester, and maybe get a coat that has a mesh lining so that air can move around freely.

Length

When it comes to the length of your raincoat, you have a few options.

You can choose a coat that comes down to your shins or knees, or you can opt for a shorter cut that hits at the hip.

If you’ll be doing a lot of walking in your raincoat, I’d say go with a long boy, because there’s only so much you can do about soaked trousers.

Style

Trench and pea coat. Those are your choices.

Since you’ll want to dress up and pair this with a suit – always opt for earth tones or black. Vivid colours are whimsy and leave an air of devil-may-careness, which is not the move when sporting a suit.

Likewise, pockets and zippers must be subtle, and it would be preferable if they were barely visible. Hoods are a no-go, too.

How to match your raincoat and your suit?

At this point, I’m all over functionality and practicality. Let’s talk style, baby!

Black

If you’re trying to look stunning in an all black-tux, I’d suggest staying away from navy and blue raincoats.

While you might see this combo here and there, it’s actually a crime to pair the two. So, what do you do?

Well, you keep it simple. You go with a black or tan raincoat. That way, you work with complementary colours that elevate your outfit, and you stay dry in the process. Neat, huh?

Brown & Tan

If you’re looking for a raincoat to match your brown or tan suit, I’d say go with a trench in earthy tones to add a touch of sophistication to your look.

The neutral colour will complement a brown and tan suit, while the long line silhouette will help to elongate your figure.

For an extra touch, try belting the trench coat at the waist. This will create a flattering hourglass silhouette and help to further define your waistline.

This outfit is sure to turn heads, whether you’re walking down the street or heading into the office.

Navy & Blue

A navy or a blue suit is a protean choice for any formal occasion, but choosing the right raincoat to go with it? That can be tricky.

If you want to keep things nice and simple, opt for a camel-coloured or navy coat. Brownish shades will complement the suits without overpowering the vibe of the blues, and navy just works.

You could try a grey trench. The cool tones will work together to create a chic contrast without ruining the overall subdued vibe.

And, if you’re feeling bold, go for a bright pop of colour with a red coat. This daring style choice is sure to turn heads, but be careful. This is not the move for a corporate outing.

Ivory

I’d REALLY avoid wearing an ivory suit in the rain. Trust me. Just don’t do it.

Conclusion

There you go young padawan! Seven stylish raincoats to match any colour suit and a boatload of information to go with it Now, go forth, read our guide on ensuring you have the right colour shoes, and prosper!

Just make sure to stay dry in the process and remember that when it comes to formal wear – less is always more!