M&S Good Move Collection Stormwear Ultra 3-in-1 Hooded Longline Coat
(£149, marksandspencer.com)
What the brand says: This longline coat has fully taped seams and waterproof Stormwear Ultra technology to ensure you stay dry in a downpour, it’s designed in a regular fit, with two layers that can be worn together or separately to suit the elements. The warm parka has fleece-lined pockets for keeping hands cosy, and an adjustable hood, waistband and cuffs to help you find the perfect fit. The puffer brings an extra layer of insulation and more coverage thanks to the funnel neckline.
What Katy say: ‘This coat works on paper and should work in principle, what with all the versatility, but it doesn’t quite hit the mark and here’s why: with the zip done up all the way, the part that protects your face is too chunky and solid, with no give. It’s okay if you plan to stand still and face forward, but I find it uncomfortable if I move my head to the side as the hood doesn’t move with you, it rubs against you. That said, the sides can be adjusted with two contrasting orange toggles so it does a good job of keeping the rain out.
‘The front flap popper-close pockets are fleece-lined and quite comfy, although you need to have your hands at a slightly funny angle in them as they are vertical. The side pockets, which lie directly underneath, would be better as main pockets as you access them at an angle, if only the zips opened more fully – I catch my little fingers on them, and they’re too tight to use when wearing gloves. They’re best for storing anything you won’t need to access much.
‘The length is good, which makes it a shame not to mark it more highly as it will be nice and long on most women, but the main problem for me is the fit. The 10 fits well and to size but only when wearing the outer waterproof part. The removable inner padded jacket, which can be worn on its own, makes it too thick when all worn together and it’s tight on the hips. I would definitely recommend going up a size or even two.
‘It’s good value for three jackets in one: the waterproof, the padded parker and both together for warmth (hence four stars for functionality), but I think there are better, more functional and stylish options bought separately. Plus, the sleeves are too short for me. It could be improved with some easy modifications.’
Fit: ★★ ★★ Functionality: ★★★★★ Style ★★★★★