The Top 20 Chesterfield Coat Ideas

A Chesterfield coat is a wardrobe staple and has been for centuries – and for good reason. Although there are some disagreements and conflicting arguments about when the Chesterfield coat first made its debut, the stylish and practical topcoat is said to have been invented by George Stanhope, 6th Earl of Chesterfield, in the mid-19th century. 

Some of the basic characteristics of a Chesterfield coat include a velvet collar, straight side pockets or flap pockets, and having no waist seam or cuffs. Typically, Chesterfield coats hit at or below the knee; however, Chesterfields are now made in shorter lengths that can hit anywhere from mid-thigh to just above the knee. Another main characteristic of this type of coat is that it’s made to be worn over any outfit and can be taken off easily when indoors; it’s also most suitable for colder and below-freezing temperatures. 

Every man should have at least one go-to topcoat in their closet, especially if you live in a colder climate and want to take your formal wear, business attire, or even streetwear to the next level. If you have no idea where to start or how to style one of these wardrobe essentials, though, don’t fret – just check out our list of the 20 best Chesterfield coat ideas for all the inspiration you’ll ever need.

1. Black

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If you’re looking for one formalwear coat and one formalwear coat only, you can never go wrong with a classic Chesterfield coat in black, as it pairs well with basically any and everything in one’s closet. From all-denim get-ups to a more casual spin on a dressy garment to pairing a Chesterfield coat with traditional formal looks like dress pants, cashmere sweaters, and brogues, the versatility of this classic style is unmatched. As far as fabric goes, opt for something made of wool or a wool blend – especially if you’ll be using a Chesterfield as one of your go-to outerwear pieces in the fall or winter.

2. Blue

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As you’ll find out from reading this list, Chesterfield coats come in a variety of colors, materials, and cuts, so if you’re looking for a coat that’s both classic and will stand out from a sea of basic black overcoats, then opt for one in a shade of blue – particularly, navy. Just like a navy blazer, a navy Chesterfield coat will never go out of style, and every man should have one in their closet, as throwing one on over whatever you’re wearing will instantly class up your outfit.

Whether you opt for a single-breasted or double-breasted coat, you’ll look like you just stepped out of a photoshoot when you pair a navy Chesterfield with slim-fit denim cuffed above the ankles, a white or cream-colored sweater, and leather boots. Finish off your look with a newsboy cap or bowler hat and you’ll be the most stylish dude in the city.

3. Brown

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It’s always a good idea to have a neutral topcoat in your closet, and there’s nothing more classic than a brown Chesterfield coat to give any outfit a sophisticated edge. Since neutral outerwear comes in lighter colors than traditional black or navy coats, if you’re on the hunt for a brown topcoat, make sure you look for one with eye-catching details like flap pockets, unique buttons, or even patterned interior lining for a pop of color.

One of the best things about a brown Chesterfield coat is that it can pair with pretty much any color – even black – and still look fashionable. Whether you opt for a sleek black-on-black look or head-to-toe neutrals, a brown Chesterfield coat is the perfect addition to both dressy and casual styles.

4. Classic

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A classic Chesterfield coat is a bit longer than some of the more modern styles and cuts that are available nowadays and typically hits below the knee or about mid-shin. If you’re in need of a topcoat that can be worn in the most formal of settings, then you truly cannot go wrong with a classic Chesterfield in any color, although it’s best to stick to something neutral, like black, grey, navy, or brown.

Fabric-wise, opt for wool or a wool-blend, as heavier materials will keep you warmer when the temperatures dip below freezing. And while you technically can pair a classic Chesterfield with more casual garments, it looks best with formal wear and business attire.

5. Grey

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There’s just something about a grey topcoat that screams “London sophistication,” so bust out your best Burberry scarf, grab your leather briefcase, throw on your best grey Chesterfield, and get ready for everyone to do their best Paul Redd impression and tell you, “You look like you’re from London!” Okay, that was a very far reach for a Forgetting Sarah Marshall reference, but seriously, a grey Chesterfield oozes sleek, London-inspired sophistication that will class up any outfit. Whether you pair it with a navy suit and leather Oxfords or slim-fit denim and almond-toe loafers, a grey Chesterfield will give your look a polished edge.

6. Herringbone

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If you thought that you can only get Chesterfield coats in solid colors, then do we have some exciting news for you! A herringbone pattern is both classic and eye-catching and will add an element of texture and interest to your classy outerwear, making it the perfect addition to an otherwise monochrome outfit or style.

Herringbone patterns, which typically come in some variety of black, grey, and/or white, look best when paired with the aforementioned colors. Try throwing a Herringbone Chesterfield coat over a black-on-black outfit to break up a monochromatic, minimalist color scheme, and if you’re feeling extra daring, pop the collar up at the back of your neck for an effortlessly cool style.

7. Velvet Collar

One of the defining characteristics of a Chesterfield coat is the velvet collar, which helps add a little bit of pizazz to an otherwise basic, everyday topcoat. Typically, the velvet collar comes in the same or similar color to the coat; however, there are Chesterfield coats that feature a contrasting velvet collar, which will most definitely add a cool, it-guy vibe to your outfit. For an ultra-modern Matrix vibe, wear a black Chesterfield coat that has a black velvet collar with a black turtleneck and fitted black chinos or slacks, and finish off the look with black leather boots or leather slip ons.

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