What a contrast compared to this time last year. In January 2011 we were just about emerging from a really nasty spell of severe winter weather, in some parts of the UK the worst for fifty years. Snow, snow and more snow. Broken limbs at an all-time high from slipping on ice. Weeks and weeks of horrid, freezing conditions. Thank goodness for leather coats!

This year things have been uncannily warm for the time of year… until this week. Now, at last, we’re getting some proper cold wintery weather. Why does it matter? Many indigenous British plants, birds and animals depend on a proper cold winter to thrive. So it’s good news for the natural world. But not so good for us humans, who have to cover up and stay warm with cosy outerwear of freeze our bits off!

It’s also good news for leather retailers, who suffered a slow start to the 2011 autumn leatherwear season because of the warm weather. Christmas was nice and busy, with millions of us buying leather coats and jackets for gifts, and things are perking up again this week as the frosty nights set in across Britain for the first time this winter.

So what are the most popular leather coat styles for 2012? As far as leather coats for men go, the super-stylish five button ‘Matrix’ full length brown or black leather coat is a top seller, crafted from the finest quality Nappa leather and tailored traditionally with a high rear vent you can close with a tab. You’ll love the silver and grey striped lining too, and the internal leather trimmed slot ‘n’ zip pockets. Make like Neo this winter and stay cosy whatever the weather throws at us for years to come! Alternatively choose a classic vintage-look brown leather duffel coat with hood, or a high fashion ¾ length Saint leather coat.

What about leather coats for women? If you fancy a spot of colour to brighten up the winter drabness, go for a classic tailored bright red leather coat with smart lapels and four buttons. A deep aubergine purple ¾ length leather swing coat, a four button, straight collar fashion masterpiece with gorgeous stitched seam detail, inset slot seam pockets at waist level, a lovely two-button detail on the cuffs and top quality lining… in beautifully soft premium Nappa Leather. Or a fabulous full length leather coat in brown or black for drama and total warmth!