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As the days grow shorter and the cold air sets in, it’s time to pull out your winter wardrobe. It doesn’t matter what you do or where you work, the most important and often most expensive item in your wardrobe is your winter coat. It’s no wonder then that most men and women buy a new coat on average every 3 years.

Before you hand over your credit card here are a few questions you should ask yourself to ensure you choose one that’s perfect for you.

How do you get to work?
Are you in-and-out of the car all day? The last thing you want is a coat that will get caught every time you close the door, so go for a shorter style, a pea-coat for men is good whilst women can go for a three-quarter length option. Again, you may not want something too bulky as you try to belt up and after all, your car should provide some warmth anyway.

If, on the other hand, you walk to the station in the morning, you’ll want something warm and long to help keep out the cold on frosty mornings. Even on the coldest days, a crowded train carriage can become very warm so try and select a jacket that’s relatively easy to remove if it gets too stuffy.

Whatever your lifestyle you will need to consider how you use your coat, and you may need more than one.

The double breasted option gives double the protection, however, it also gives double the bulk. If extra bulk is not what your body needs opt instead for a single breasted coat.

What type of work environment are you in?
Whether you are working in a formal environment and going to regular client meetings or whether your work calls for relaxed clothes, your coat needs to be appropriate. An ‘office’ coat will tend to be a classic piece in a neutral colour that you may choose to leave at home when in dress-down mode.

In a work environment, where jeans are acceptable, you will be able to wear a mac or stylish anorak, but make sure it is not too short – you don’t want to get frostbite! Padded parkas are ideal and they’re in trend this season.

Is it a question of fabrics?
If you walk for some distance, a coat in a waterproof fabric is essential. Cold and wet is not a nice feeling. But remember that if you have your coat dry-cleaned, it may need to be re-waterproofed afterwards so remember to check the label before buying.

For a smart classic coat, quintessentially British tweeds and herringbones are excellent. If you’re after warmth look for cashmere or a wool and cashmere mix.

For a casual look, quilted jackets are good – and there is nothing wrong with a hood here – it certainly will help in keeping you warm.

What about colour?
For men, coats should be in neutral colours, but make sure it is the right one: opt for blue if you’re blue-eyed and brown if you’re brown-eyed. Wear black only if you have black hair and dark eyes. If this sounds too dictatorial, don’t forget to accessorise your coat with colourful scarves to stand out from the crowd. Khaki and camel are great if you have a ‘warm’ undertone to your colouring whilst greys are excellent for those with a ‘cool’ undertone to their skin.

When it comes to colour, ladies have a lot more choice. If you want to join the sea of black, greys and browns remember to add scarves, gloves, earmuffs and hats. These will not only keep you warm but will also add personality to your coat.

A colourful coat will bring a smile to your face and those that you pass in the morning rush hour. However, make sure that the colour you pick is right for you. If you go for a ‘fashion’ colour the lifespan of your coat might not be as long as a more classic shade. Colours such as teals and purples which suit all complexions, if you are feeling bold, why not wear red? Whatever your colouring there is a red out there for you, from tomato reds to scarlet. As spring approaches, a lighter weight coat in lime green or rose pink will certainly cheer up everyone on the underground.

What’s your budget?
Remember that you’ll be wearing your new coat most days for the next 4 or 5 months – and possibly next year too, so buy the best quality you can afford. Don’t be too hasty when making your decision. Try on various styles in various shops until you find the perfect option, and don’t be afraid to take it back if it’s not exactly what you need.

Don’t forget you’ll need to think about the rest of your working wardrobe too.

Men and women working in a formal office environment will find that a suit or pair of smart trousers and a jacket will form the basis of their day to day uniform. Winter suits will be of heavier fabrics, so look for wool or even fine tweed.

Unless it’s in your palette, try to avoid black. Navy and charcoal are great colours for this time of year and so much more flattering. Men can bring colour into their look by wearing a striped, checked or plain colour shirt, just remember that you’ll need to be careful about your choice of tie. Fine knitwear is a great alternative to a blouse for women.

If your working wardrobe is more business casual then you’ll be able to take a slightly more relaxed approach. For men, fine knit jumpers whether they’re round, crew or polo neck are ideal, they will work with chinos, baby cords or even smart denim.

For women, skirts and trousers are the order of the day. Depending on your body shape your skirt could be pencil, flippy, A-line or pleated; for a trendy look- why not add a pair of patterned tights, either in the same or a contrasting colour. Trousers are a great way of keeping out the winter chill, with a range of fabrics and styles from boot cut, low riser to drain pipe available there is a pair for everyone.