Since officially becoming a royal, it seems the world has become even more captivated by Megan Markle’s—ahem, the Duchess of Sussex’s—wardrobe. (Not that we’re surprised, Kate Middleton has been fashion fodder for years now.) From her affinity for suits to her wedding-guest attire, Markle’s sense of style is no doubt modern and often relatable when it comes to emulating her best looks (again, not unlike her sister-in-law).
While we’re fanatical over every dress, bag and skirt the newly minted Duchess has donned, with fall on the brain, our sights have been particularly set on Markle’s coat collection. (If you hadn’t realized, we’re laser-focused on prepping our wardrobes for the new season.) While every style thus far has epitomized sophistication to a T, we took notice of a particular trend amongst her lineup of outerwear, realizing that many of her toppers skew menswear-inspired. From a double-breasted military-like silhouette to a long checked plaid print and a classic wool coat with clean lines and precise tailoring, Markle regularly leans on structured shapes as the focal point of her fall and winter outfits, often layering her coats over a pair of black pants or a simple dress.
To give her borrowed-from-the-boys aesthetic a feminine twist, the new royal favors classic pumps, heeled boots and ladylike bags as polished accents. When winter hits, cold-weather accessories like wide-brim hats and scarves are her finishing touch. Cozy chic!
Ahead we’re spotlighting five of Markle’s best menswear-inspired outerwear ensembles to kickstart your coat collection this fall, and shopped out a similar version to recreate each outfit on your own. Whether you prefer pants, dresses or go between both like the Duchess, each coat is a timeless and versatile style worth investing in this season.
A Checked Coat
When polishing up for work or an event, a menswear-inspired check is sleek over subtly flared trousers. A tonal handbag and classic black pumps ensure a prim and polished finish.
A Military-Inspired Coat
A double-breasted military-inspired coat is always in style. This houndstooth version feels especially modern with a nipped waist, elongated silhouette and oversized lapels.
A Tailored Wool Coat
It doesn’t get more versatile than a neutral wool coat. Clean lines and precise tailoring ensure a clean and polished look whether you wear with trousers and pumps like the Duchess or atop a vibrant dress, skirt or suit.
A Robe Coat
Inspired by a traditional smoking jacket, unique detailing drives Markle’s robe coat into feminine territory. An asymmetrical waist tie, contrasting trim or a slightly oversized fit gives this silhouette an especially fresh feel.
A Classic Black Coat
Every woman needs a classic black coat. Meghan’s structured take is a wardrobe hero whether you replicate her look head to toe with a colored bag and velvet boots or layer over an evening gown with stilettos.
