If you are still undecided over what kind of coat to invest in this season, listen to Ian Griffiths’ wisdom.
It’s probably the priciest item in your winter wardrobe and also the piece you’ll wear every day. As Max Mara gets ready to unveil a major new exhibition featuring its iconic coats in Seoul, we asked the brand’s British creative director, Ian Griffiths to pin-point his most covetable cover-ups.
The Teddy Bear
This is our rising star, our new icon. We launched it in 2013 and it was an instant hit. It’s the ultimate faux fur – the pile is pure camel hair on a base of silk and this season we introduced a new colour – rich ruby red. The urge to cocoon yourself in its extravagant volume is irresistible.
The Cardigan Coat
I wanted to make a camel coat with the cosiness and nonchalance of a cardigan. The collar and front panel are in our trademark camel hair, but the back and sleeves are knitted, with a super chunky cable stitch. Thrust your hands into the oversized patch pockets and just swagger.
The Trench
For me, the power of Max Mara is in its understatement. I believe that quality design shouldn’t shout – it should purr. Every detail of this camel hair trench has authenticity. You live in your coat, and when it’s a good one, it gives you a sense of empowerment.
The New Duffle
Like a hyper-luxe duffle coat, this has all the bombshell glamour of an off-duty movie star. It is in turtledove cashmere with a generous hood lined in opulent shearling.
The Icon
I think that the 101801 coat, designed for Max Mara by Anne Marie Beretta in 1981 is a landmark in fashion history. It’s been in constant production since she conceived it. A single garment that crystallises the code that came to be known as “power dressing”, it is every bit as relevant today as it was then. Made from cashmere-wool, this coat’s unique quality, longevity and timeless design give it the status of a precious heirloom. Why has it lasted? It’s perfect in cut, proportion and detail, and unchanged since its 1981 debut. We introduce it in a new colour every season, so here it is in our trademark inky blue.
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