The rise of the humble parka.

If I mention the term Parka to any of my friends their immediate reaction is a grimace with memories of slouchy khaki outerwear worn by mods in Quadrophenia. However, this upcoming season, I think they might be quite taken with the rebirth of the humble parka and its new status as a go-to edgy trans-seasonal layering piece. It might be something to do with khaki being the new black for AW17, but it is also down to the fact that the plain old parka has come a long way over the years and new season cuties with embellishment and statement slogans are turning even the oldest of fashionistas eyes.

I spotted this Needle & Thread parka way back last year at a press day and had completely forgotten about its existence until it recently popped up on a sale page. I’d been working on my AW17 trend report and suddenly put two and two together… khaki + embellished = AW17 win/win.

But then I got to thinking about the versatility of a parka. Remember those awful transitional days when it’s still a little too warm to break out the winter coat, yet you need a mac like layer to keep the rain off? Well, say hello to your new alternative to the classic trench – the parka. It’s definitely come of age, and even though I’m the wrong side of young-mod-in-Quadrophenia, I still reckon it’s worth a punt this Autumn.

Needle & Thread parka, J.Brand jeans, Gucci loafers and Altuzarra sweater (similar here).

New Season Parka… where to shop.

Well, I say new season, but in fact, they’ve been bubbling under as a micro trend for the last season or two, so you can actually nab a few of these in the sales if you’re quick. Here are some of my faves out there right now. Look for AW17 detailing like embellishment, fur trim and embroidery in all sorts of military hues and you will nail the trend. Click the images to shop.