Welcome to the last AZIU of 2024

Welcome to the final Amanda Zips It Up of 2024.

And yikes… Christmas is right around the corner. And I’ll be taking a short breather from this blog and  my radio show to spend time with the family.

January 1st is the first blank page of a new 365-page book – and we should all fit as much into our personal edition as possible. I’m really looking forward to next year – making new plans, including pushing myself a bit more.

In this instalment, I give you a potted round up of some key fashion moments that stood out this year. Also covered is what people will be eating and wearing over the festive period, plus an exciting clothing range coming out of Mi-Soul Radio – the station where you can catch Amanda Zips It Up live every week.

First of all though, sad condolences to the family of Mango founder Isak Andic, who tragically passed away during family trip to the Spanish mountains. Isak lost his life in a fall while on a hiking tour with his family in the Saltpeter Caves of Collbató.

Isak’s son, Jonathan Andic, 43, who is the Chief Mango Man Officer explained to the authorities that he had been walking further ahead when he heard falling stones and sand. Jonathan saw his father fall into the depths but was unable to stop the tragic event.

The Istanbul-born entrepreneur founded his fast fashion empire in 1972 alongside his brother Nahman. Isak moved to Spain as a teenager and began selling hand-embroidered T-shirts, opening his first store on Paseo de Gracia in Barcelona before venturing into Madrid. In 1984, Isak rationalised his businesses under one brand which he called Mango.

Andic resided in Barcelona and leaves three children, with two working for Mango. His son, Jonathan Andic is expected to succeed his father and take the helm of the business empire.

By 2017, Mango was available in over 100 countries and brought in over £2 billion in annual revenue. Kate Moss was unveiled as the face of the brand in 2011 and helped boost its popularity worldwide. In 2018, Andic was granted a knighthood by France for his contributions to the country.

As of 2024, Andic has a net worth of £3.56 billion, with Mango having over 2,100 stores in 110 different countries.

Onto happier topics – and may I wish you all a very merry Christmas and Happy New Year. See you all in 2025 for more fashion and Lifestyle with Amanda Zips It Up.

The Mi-Soul Merch Collection

So, here’s the perfect feature for me as, the resident Mi-Soul Radio fashionista.

Introducing the new Mi-Soul Radio T-SHIRT & HOODIE merch collection, featuring classic men’s and women’s t-shirts and black hoodies.

Whether you’re with us at Boisdale on a Friday, UNDR on a Sunday, E1 over Xmas or our Grand weekender in Brighton next April, here’s your chance to fly the flag.

First, the Tees are made from 100% ring-spun cotton, they offer a soft and comfortable fit. Featuring the iconic Mi-Soul logo prominently printed on the front, you can choose between the red/white design or the elegant all gold print.

Micheal Angol Modeling The Gold

The semi-fitted cut T-shirt is perfect for casual wear, with a seamless twin-needle collar, taped neck and shoulders, and twin-needle sleeves and hem.

Or stay warm and stylish with the Mi-Soul Heavy Blend Hoodie, crafted from a 50% cotton and 50% polyester blend for comfort and durability. Featuring the Mi-Soul logo on the front, you can choose between the classic red/white logo or the sleek all gold print. The hoodie is designed with a drop shoulder style and a double fabric hood for added warmth. With a front pouch pocket, ribbed cuffs and hem with spandex, and twin needle stitching, this hoodie combines practicality with style.

Some of you may have seen me recently wearing the Mi-Soul dress which was bespoke made for me but let’s see if any of our ladies are interested in grabbing one for next summer. I’d love your feedback on this.

And as we look forward to warmer temps – how about the Mi-Soul vest. I’m loving this for the gym or over a bikini in summer with a pair of cut-offs.

This women’s vest top is a comfortable and stylish choice for any Mi-Soul fan. Made from 100% ring-spun cotton, it features the Mi-Soul logo on the front, available in the classic red/white print. With a fitted design and rib-bound neck and armholes, it’s perfect for layering or wearing alone. Whether at a Mi-Soul event or out on a casual day, this vest top will keep you looking and feeling great.

 Vest: £20

Men’s T-Shirt: £25

Hoodie: £45

Shop http://www.mi-soul.com

A Look Back At The Best & Worst Of Fashion 2024

What are you keeping, and what are you leaving, behind as we enter 2025?

2024 heralded a welcome departure from fast-paced micro trends of years past, but that doesn’t mean that the year was lacking in style.

As we embraced a more minimalist aesthetic, whether driven by an ongoing Y2k fashion obsession or the increasing pressures of the cost of living, this year’s biggest fashion trends felt far less transient and short-lived than their 2023 predecessors. As such, we’re carrying many of our favourite 2024 fashion trends with us into 2025. 

Below, I round up my favourite trends from 2024 into the new year and beyond, plus name a few that we’re leaving behind with little or no regrets.

Oversized and Mini Bags

A practical shift away from the era of the micro mini bag, oversized totes were the it-bags of 2024. 

The top handle style, big enough to carry an entire weekend’s necessities (and then some), was cradled under the arm of cool girls everywhere. Bonus points were given for those who opted for a brown suede iteration.

The pathetic mini bags were a waste of money as you couldn’t even fit your phone in them. So good riddance to them.

Rich Browns

It’s All About Brown in 2024

Move over beige, brown became the new neutral of 2024. From deep chocolates to warm caramels, the colour choice proved popular both on and off the runway. At Max Mara’s Spring/Summer 25 runway show in Milan, the brand’s signature sharp tailoring softened in shades of brown. 

The Boho Revival

Something changed when Chemena Kamali took on the role of Chloé’s creative director, and that something was our feeling towards a boho revival. Remember Sienna Miller in THAT white boho dress this year?

As far as I’m concerned Boho has never been away, but perhaps that’s because I spend half my life in Boho central – The Balearics. Yes, the Boho aesthetic was reborn in 2024, and we, along with the rest of the style and celebrity set, dived right in.

Minimalist Thongs & Ballet Pumps

The humble thong had a subtle glow up in 2024 as the style set continued to covet all things ‘90s minimalism. 

Though they may not look all that different, dainty and sleek styles, squared off toes and heeled renditions brought the shoe into the modern day with surprisingly little reluctance.

And goodbye to the studded Ballet Pump. The most unflattering shoe any girl could wear. Say No More!

Brat Green

Brat green and ‘brat summer’ became inescapable for part of the year, spotted on the runways of Gucci and Versace’s Spring/Summer 25 collections, as well as red carpets and street style.

The Flat Cap & Grandpa Core Fashion.

M&S nailed it this year for men, especially with their Ian Wright hat range. It was all about looking like your grandpa this year. Jumpers, Cardigans, flat caps and wellies, the “Cotswolds” look presided for guys in 2024.

The Acid House Smiley Face Tee

Say no-more. It came back – with a donk on it.

What else we’ll leave behind in 2024…

Massive wide bell leg jeans. Even if Sienna tried to push them in her range at M&S – they’re hideous.

The Adidas Samba… Rishi Sunak ruined them for life.

New Christmas Food Trends for 2024

The Christmas food trends to add to your basket in 2024

Feel like stepping away from the norm this festive period? These are the off-grid 2024 seasonal food crazes you might want to consider…

The Traditional Turkey Is Old School Now…

Christmas supermarket delivery slots are mainly booked up, and now is the time to start thinking about what to put in those shopping baskets. Will you be sticking to the classics this year, or is it time to be more imaginative? 

My family and I are eating out on Xmas day, so we can all pick our own choices, because not everyone enjoys a traditional Turkey for their Xmas dinner. 

I’ve rounded up some festive food trends of 2024 if you fancy a change this year.

Christmas party ideas

According to Tesco, ‘the cheeseboard is the UK’s most popular festive party food, with nearly a fifth placing it as top choice (17%)’, but what else will fill the buffet table?

Grazing boards

On Instagram alone there are 6.3million posts with either the hashtag #charcuterie or #charcuterieboard.

Look at any of the supermarket Christmas food guides and they’ll all have charcuterie boards – or plays on them. And the wonderful thing about charcuterie boards? You can personalise them to your tastes.

Baked camembert

The trend for baked camembert is going up a notch this year. Recipes and retailers are creating versions with interesting toppings and there are also versions of camembert with ingredients baked around them, creating a sunshine-esque design.

Among other retailers, this is something Asda is doing, with a pigs in blankets wreath surrounding their camembert. 

While many cheeses would work, camembert makes an obvious choice because of its shape and general appeal. There’s been a 92% increase in searches on the Asda website for ‘camembert’ in the two weeks leading up to Christmas.

Miniature mains

Whether you’re assembling a ‘picky bits’ ensemble to nibble on during the days between Christmas and New Year or going the whole ‘fine dining’ hog with a party, the trend for miniature mains like mini Yorkshire’s filled with beef and horseradish is growing.

Retailers are upping their offerings with topped miniature crumpets, mini fish and chipsburgerspies and even miniature toasties on sale.

The main event

According to Tesco research, 44% of people say Christmas dinner is the one food moment they most look forward to during the holiday season. But what will you serve up this year?

Beef on the big day

It’s All About BEEF In 2024

While turkey is the traditional choice, supermarkets are witnessing an increase in people opting for beef. In late October, when Ocado’s Christmas slots had been open for a month, their beef sales for Christmas were growing faster than turkey and there was a 33% increase in non-turkey centrepieces compared to 2023.

Beef’s both indulgent and versatile. It brings a sense of celebration to the table that easily matches turkey. It’s also perfect to eat hot on Christmas Day or serve cold as part of a Boxing Day buffet.

Sainsburys have also spotted an unusual trend for December involving beef. They’ve found 17% of Brits are planning to host a barbeque party during the festive period.

“We’ve seen a 74% year-on-year (YoY) increase in customers buying our premium range burgers in December,” says Sainsbury’s product development manager.

While 40% of Brits eat the same thing every Christmas, it appears that others want to shake up their dining experience and embrace quirky new ideas. 

Luxury fish

Scallopscrabslobsters and even three fish roasts are on the menu this year, according to experts.

Searches for salmon caviar, tinned fish and fish pie are up over 240%, 200% and 190% respectively on the Waitrose website compared to the same time last year – i.e. customers are looking for more luxury options when it comes to fish, says Waitrose.

Talking of fish, one dish is making a big comeback this festive season, behold the prawn cocktail! Everyone loves a slice of nostalgia and prawn cocktail is a trend that keeps coming back around.

Prawn cocktails are back!

The starter associated with the ’70s and ’80s seems to be on the rise again. But why now?

Millennials are taking the reins for festive hosting and have a hankering for a bit of nostalgia, as 60% are planning to buy food that sparks childhood memories. As families pass the hosting torch (and traditions) to younger generations, more people are opting for retro dishes from their childhood.

Sweet tooth?

Previous research by Sainsbury’s found 36% of people don’t like Christmas pudding, but which desserts will be popular this year?

Mince pies with a twist

All the major retailers have quirky mince pie options this year, including those infused with alcohol, chocolate, different fruits, spices and toppings. But what’s driving this trend?

Younger customers in particular tend to prefer alternatives to the classic spiced mincemeat, which is heavy on dried fruit and seasonal spices. These shoppers are drawn to lighter, citrus-type flavours and novel pairings that feel more refreshing, explained the senior product development manager at Co-op.

Citrus zing

Limoncello is growing in popularity – and you can expect to see it infused into puddings this year.

Italian cuisine is booming on social media and we’ve seen searches for limoncello increase over 250% compared to the same time last year,” says Waitrose. They – like others – are using it in novel ways. “It complements the festive flavours of panettone extremely well, bringing a fresh citrusy zing.”

Whichever culinary journey you decide to take this year, the key is to go for what you love, whether that’s traditional offerings or dishes with a twist. To make your festive feasts memorable for all the right reasons.

Welcome To AZIP Mid – Dec

Welcome to mid-December, and it’s just over two weeks to Christmas (in case you needed reminding)! 

This week seemed like the perfect moment to provide definitive present ideas for everyone who hasn’t even started thinking about Christmas shopping. Obviously in 2024 most of us shop online, and if the queues at my local shopping mall are anything to go by, “physical” shopping seems much quieter this year.

If you’re starting to feel festive but don’t fancy getting dressed up to go out (more about that next week) – how about curling up on the sofa and watching a classic Christmas movie.

But what are the Top Ten Christmas movies of all time?

Here we go…

10. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

 An original fairy tale, story and characters created by Tim Burton. Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, is bored with his annual Halloween triumph. A chance visit to nearby Christmastown gives him an idea: he and his spooky friends will stand in for Santa this Christmas! Despite the title, it has become more associated with Halloween than Xmas and it’s a beautiful film for grown-ups of all ages can enjoy from October through New Year’s.

9. Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang (2005)

As screenwriter of the likes of The Last Action Hero’ The Long Kiss Goodnight and the Lethal Weapon series, I’ve never seen it. A two-bit thief – Robert Downey Junior – marooned in LA during the Xmas holidays gets mixed up in murder. He’s ably assisted by Val Kilmer. Not my cup of cocoa at Xmas at all.

8. Edward Scissorhands (1990)

One of the first Johnny Depp performances. Edward is a man-made creature who has got shears instead of hands, because his creator (Vincent Price) died mid-project. He sits lonely and lethal in his gloomy mansion, until the Avon Lady (Dianne Wiest) comes to call. She invites him home, and he proceeds to dazzle her family and neighbours with his flair for topiary and surreal hair-styling. With its skewed vision of suburbia, Tim Burton’s film is a visual treat. But Burton’s suburban fantasy wouldn’t be nearly as touching without Depp’s sad-eyed hero at its center – or its context of Christmas, a time of acceptance, charity and Winona Ryder, as his love interest, dancing around ice sculptures.

7. Bad Santa (2003)

So funny, this yuletide raunch-fest exists on a single joke, and it’s basically ‘guy in a Santa suit swears a lot’. But Billy Bob Thornton, in the title role, manages to stretch that much further than it should go. Thornton is Willie T Stokes, a cynical, alcoholic mall Santa with a penchant for sex with hefty women and a wholly unconcealed dislike of kids. Definitely one for me.

6. Home Alone (1990)

KEVIN!!!  (Macauley Culkin) wants everyone in his giant house in suburban Chicago to disappear. When he wakes up the next day to discover his wish granted, he soon regrets it – but not before spending a few glorious days without parental supervision. Written by John Hughes, the ultimate message is about the importance of family – and of doing a headcount before rushing to the airport to catch a flight to Paris – is a classic.  The best part in the entire thing is John Candy’s (largely improvised) monologue about being abandoned by his parents in a funeral home as a kid.

Home Alone is the second-highest grossing Christmas movie of all-time, behind 2018’s animated reboot of The Grinch

5. Gremlins (1984)

Gizmo the mogwai, a button-cute, furry ET clone with a dark secret: under certain circumstances, he begins breeding toothy, green id-monsters. If Kingston Falls (the setting) looks familiar, that’s because it’s the same set used to represent Hill Valley in Back to the Future – the Courthouse Square backlot at Universal Studios.

4. A Christmas Story (1983)

Back in the ’80s, who would have thought that this odd slice of life from the director of Porky’s would eventually gain on It’s a Wonderful Life and Miracle on 34th Street as America’s favourite holiday movie? Bob Clark’s nostalgic comedy existed as a borderline cult film for decades, and no wonder: it’s pretty weird and given how often it now appears on TV every December, you’ve probably seen it enough that it’s getting easier to understand.

3. Elf (2003)

THIS should be number one.

No need to explain the plot… this is one modern Christmas movie that’s genuinely sweet.


2. Die Hard (1988)

Is this even a Xmas movie? Die Hard is a Christmas movie. Because it takes place on Christmas Eve. Run-DMC’s immortal ‘Christmas in Hollis’ is on the soundtrack. Some have even argued that it’s secretly a remake of It’s a Wonderful Life. So it’s a hi-tech thriller with a human heart, and Bruce excels in staging the murderous mayhem and violence on Xmas Eve… another one we’ve all seen too many times… EXCEPT ME!

1. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

Tinged with magical passages, buckets of good will and an alternate plotline with the disturbing kick of a Black Mirror episode, this tribute to the efforts of a small-town do-gooder cements the idea of Christmas as a time for giving. James Stewart is impeccable as George Bailey.

It’s a Wonderful Life is the first definitive Christmas movie to be nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards – though no Christmas movie has yet to actually win the Oscar.

Onto this week and we go in with our ultimate Gift Guides for Him and Her – so get ready to shop people.

Christmas Gifts For Him

The best gifts for men this Christmas

If you’re searching for the best festive gifts for men, you’ve come to the right place.  I have gathered some brilliant options across a range of categories, so you are sure to find that perfect present for your brother, dad, son, boyfriend or best friend.

Give him something he’ll be thrilled to open on Christmas morning and, more importantly, actually use. I have included gifts that he would wear, cook with and display, and all have been tested for their quality and value for money.

Candle, £22, Skye Candles

Gift set, £69.99, Bombay Sapphire x Thomas Heatherwick

Trainers, £110, Hoff

Travel face shaver, £69.99, Manscaped at John Lewis

Wellies, £180, Le Chameau

Jumper, £149, Alan Paine

English sparkling wine magnum, £85, Nyetimber

Pyjamas, £69, Intimissimi

Eau de Cologne, from £104, Acqua di Parma at John Lewis

Chocolate-covered almonds, £3.75, Forest Feast at Tesco

Travel watch box, £35, Stackers

Keychain, £34.45, OXoriginals at Etsy

Gilet, £37.99, H&M

Earplugs, £29.95, Loop

Card holder, £50, Octobre

Pizza oven, £399, Gozney

Apron, £29.99, Zara Home

Pen, £53.50, Parker at John Lewis

Socks (3 pack), £19, Cos

T-shirt (3 pack), £78, Reiss

Speaker, £149.95, Bose

Toiletry bag, £100, Away

Headphones, £299, Sony at Curry’s

Olive oil, £40, Galantino at Harvey Nichols

Christmas Gifts For Her

Best Christmas gifts for her

The time has come for you to definitively purchase something for the special woman (or women) in your life. Whether that be your mum, aunt, grandparent, niece, ‘situationship’, best friend or just a work colleague you adore… I’ve got you, I’ve been searching high and low for a plethora of lovely bits and bobs that anyone would love to receive on December 25.

From jewellery to makeup bags, handbags to pyjamas, perfume to books and so, somuch more.

For those working with a budget, I’ve also got your back.

All you need to do is sit back, scroll down and take a few minutes to get that list sorted – as there’s only two weeks shopping time left (or less, if it’s an online purchase).

Sol de Janeiro Gimme Gimme Minis

Indulge in luxurious textures and delightful scents with the exclusive Space NK x Sol de Janeiro Gimme Gimme Minis gift set. This set includes mini versions of Sol de Janeiro’s bestselling body mists and creams, all neatly packed in a unique travel bag. Enjoy the hydrating Beija Flor Elasti-Cream and Delicia Drench Body Butter, along with the captivating Cheirosa ‘76 Perfume Mist and the iconic Cheirosa ‘62 scent. Perfect for pampering on the go, this set makes an ideal gift for bath and body enthusiasts.

£43 Space NK

Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler and Dryer Complete Long Volumise in Strawberry Bronze/Blush Pink

The Dyson Airwrap is designed for various hair types, allowing you to dry, curl, shape, smooth, and hide flyaways without extreme heat. It is the most awarded hair multi-styler, featuring re-engineered attachments that utilise Enhanced Coanda airflow to help you create your desired styles. The set includes brushes for shaping, volumising, and styling, barrels for waving and curling in both directions, and specialised attachments to smooth hair and conceal flyaways.

£479.99 Dyson

The All Day 1.2L Quencher Carry-All

The All Day 40 oz Quencher Carry-All is a stylish, hands-free hydration solution made from 100% recycled polyester. It features a secure band with a winged bear pattern, three pockets for your phone, wallet, and small essentials, a sunglasses sleeve, and a key clip. The detachable strap allows for color swapping with friends. Stay hydrated and move freely with Stanley!

£45 Stanley

Leather Jewellery Case

Keep your jewellery safe and organised on the go with this chic trinket boxes. Featuring a luxurious velvet lining and a soft leather exterior, this compact case is perfect for city breaks and beach holidays. Its small size ensures it fits easily in your handbag or luggage.

£42 Not Another Bill

Wool Coat with Detachable Scarf

Crafted from a wool mix fabric, this coat features a heavy structure and a long, oversized design. It has a straight cut with a rounded neck and long sleeves. The front is secured with press stud fastenings, and it includes two side pockets, a decorative belt, and a detachable scarf. The coat is fully lined for added comfort.

£229.99 Mango

Forever Wavy Bracelet Set

Bracelets at their finest. The ‘Forever Wavy’ layering set is both subtle and striking, crafted in 18ct gold plate. Remember to roll up your sleeves and let your jewellery box treasures shine brightly.

£106 Daisy London

Spa and Beauty Indulgent Experiences for One

This is a versatile and luxurious gift for someone truly fortunate, whether it’s a friend, family member, colleague, or even yourself. This voucher allows your special someone to choose their own heavenly experience. Those in need of relaxation will delight in a full-body massage, the fashion-conscious will appreciate a male grooming session, and city high-fliers will be thrilled with an urban spa day. There’s something for everyone, and each option is equally tempting.

£50 Moonpig

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit in Unlocked Evil Eye

Combining groundbreaking active ingredients with innovative technology, Hourglass’ makeup essentials offer powerful pigments and seamless coverage, all encased in luxurious packaging. Merging science and beauty, the brand’s cruelty-free collection features the limited edition Ambient Lighting Palette in ‘Evil Eye’ (8.4g), a six-pan compact that includes everything you need to blush, highlight, and bronze your complexion.

£90 Cult Beauty

Alphabet Striped Trinket Tray

Add a playful touch to your dressing table with this round ceramic trinket tray. The crisp stripes create a smart appearance, while a gold foil initial in the centre adds a personalised touch. A scalloped edge provides a charming finish. The colour varies depending on the letter you choose; please refer to the Product Details for more information.

£5 M&S

UGG Tasman Slippers in Chestnut

Introducing the tan Tasman slipper from UGG, featuring a suede upper with braided collar detailing. A super soft sheepskin lining and UGGpure Wool insole offer supreme comfort and warmth throughout the season. Finished with an EVA sole, these slippers are perfect for both indoor and outdoor wear!

£100 Schuh

Mystical Eye Makeup Bag

All attention on this enchanting design. Inspired by ancient beliefs, these accessories showcase Elizabeth’s hand-illustrated mystical eye motifs. Believed to offer protection, these magical pieces will watch over loved ones wherever they go.

£36 Elizabeth Scarlett

Cosmic Signet Ring in Gold

Your ring stack has never looked so mystical. The Cosmic Crystal Signet Ring in Gold showcases a pavé star and moon design, adding a touch of brilliance to your collection. Wear it alone or pair it with other band and signet rings for a stunning effect.

£75 Astrid & Miyu

NEOM Wellbeing London Cosy Nights Scented Candle

Escape the cold and warm up with our 100% natural Cosy Nights fragrance. This rich blend of pure essential oils, including sandalwood, frankincense, and nutmeg, offers sophisticated festive aromas. The scent of blazing embers and smoky firewood evokes memories of snuggling by an open fire on a cosy winter night, helping you to relax and unwind.

£38 John Lewis

Pillow Talk Iconic Mini Lip Kit Limited Edition Kit

Discover the beauty of the Pillow Talk Iconic Mini Lip Kit, featuring award-winning formulas in the universally flattering nude-pink Pillow Talk shade. This limited-edition set includes mini versions of Charlotte Tilbury’s most iconic lip products, loved by stars and supermodels alike. Perfect for gifting or treating yourself, these lip essentials are sure to impress.

£29 Charlotte Tilbury

Oat Plush Dressing Gown

This longer-length robe is crafted from the most beautiful, uniquely finished fabric. It features deep turned-back cuffs and a cosy hood, with the extended length adding a touch of luxury. Truly, it is the dressing gown of dreams!

£40 Jim Jam The Label

Hello December!

Welcome to this week’s edition of Amanda Zips It Up

I’ll start with the somewhat disappointing Kate Moss collection at Zara.

Massively over hyped and overpriced. First of all, I drove to my local big Zara on launch day and was surprised to see NOBODY waiting outside the shop. I remember when her collection at TOPSHOP launched, there was literally hysteria. Once inside the shop, I asked the staff where the collection was and they replied – it’s only online. So I drove home and went online and the cheapest item was a leopard print bag.

I do love the red sandals but they are almost £200. The collection is OK, but it’s difficult to disconnect from the pricing. Check it all out at zara.com – and I welcome your thoughts.

 I’ll say no more. Check out www.zara.com for more prices and if anything is available.

Let’s’ get on with the goss at The Fashion Awards and check out the best coats for men this winter.

Men’s Coats

Beat the chill: because it has been FREEZING! Here’s some great men’s coats for wrapping up in style, as next week’s forecast doesn’t provide much hope of warmth, and winter has barely begun.

Herringbone, check or double breasted, classic coats never go out of style.

It’s always good to be prepared for anything the weather throws at you. Your coat purchase is arguably the biggest spend in your wardrobe, and the aim is to buy something that lasts several years and sits above trends. This season more than ever, designers and stores are championing classic styles in a neutral colour palette that will seamlessly work with much of what’s in your wardrobe.

Whether you opt for a long tailored coat, a style that dominated the Milan runways, including clean lined and ankle-length at Gucci, all-black at Valentino and oversized boxy 80s styles at Emporio Armani. Or whether you choose functionality, with a water-resistant trench or puffer coat that will keep you cosy, these are my picks of the best… and (broadly) affordable too.

  • Check, £189, Harry Lambert X Zara, zara.com

Change up a neutral colour and stand out from the crowd. This trench is from Harry Lambert’s Cutie Circus collaboration with Zara and features a curved collar detail and generous patch pockets, the fit is cut slightly loose. Wear with a bold sweater and wide leg cords and trainers.

 The drop shoulder creates a relaxed shape that allows for layers underneath. The minimal cut works well over officewear or to smarten up a more casual jeans and hoodie look.

If in doubt opt for classic black. It can be styled up or down to work for smart and casual occasions. Top tip: keep a lint roller by the front door for a quick refresh before you leave the house.

 A classic trench is a failsafe for elevating even a tracksuit and trainers look. Tie the belt behind and wear open for a nonchalant billowing effect. In blustery weather pop the collar up and button up.

Part of the JW Anderson for Uniqlo collection this wool-blend coat is inspired by traditional Donegal tweed, it offers a wallet friendly way to tap into the popular heritage trend. Looks great over knitwear or layered over a shirt look with workwear trousers and sturdy boots.

The 2024 Fashion Awards

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky looked incredible at The Fashion Awards 2024 in London the other night. 

The A-list couple, both 36, stood out a mile among the many stars at the Royal Albert Hall on Monday evening. 

The Love on the Brain singer wore a fluffy turquoise hat with a matching coat that contrasted with her black bustier and elbow-length gloves. 

Opting for a more muted look, A$AP wore a navy suit look with a white shirt and red tie.

Many A-listers attended including Mathilda Mace, a costume, prosthetics and Makeup Artist who opted for a very risque all-black outfit.

Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan wowed with her pale blue and black gown that was complimented by her winged eyeliner and pale blue eyeshadow. 

Fellow Netflix star, Ambika Mod, who starred in the series One Day also appeared at the event in a floral-style dress.

As the celebrities flocked to the event, many opted for eye-catching looks. 

Singer and former Celebs Go Dating star Tallia Storm went for an all-animal print look as she wore a leopard print gown with a fur cape and matching leopard print heels.

Model Roxy Horner whose partner is Jack Whitehall, wore a bold all-white look.

Following the red carpet, the titans and innovators of the fashion industry were given awards at the London shindig.

Simone Rocha accepted the award for British Womenswear Designer of the Year, and used the platform to say ‘Free Palestine’.

‘I’m very proud of the work I’ve produced,’ she said. ‘My collections fuel my emotions. With this award I’d like to honour all the women and children who are displaced. She then added: ‘Free Palestine’.

DESIGNER OF THE YEAR

Jonathan Anderson for JW Anderson and Loewe

MODEL OF THE YEAR

Alex Consani

BRITISH WOMENSWEAR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR

Simone Rocha for Simone Rocha

BRITISH MENSWEAR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR

Grace Wales Bonner for Wales Bonner

NEW ESTABLISHMENT WOMENSWEAR

Marco Capaldo for 16Arlington

NEW ESTABLISHMENT MENSWEAR

Priya Ahluwalia for Ahluwalia

BRITISH ACCESSORIES DESIGNER

Stephen Jones for Stephen Jones

ISABELLA BLOW AWARD FOR FASHION CREATOR

Tyler Mitchell

SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD

Dame Margaret Barbour

SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD

Sophia Neophitou-Apostolou (10 magazine)

SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD

Nan Goldin and Gucci

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Tom Ford

BFC FOUNDATION AWARD

Chopova Lowena