Coats: questions and Band 8 answers

Yes, definitely, especially during autumn and winter. The weather where I live can be quite chilly and unpredictable, so I rarely leave my flat without a jacket or an overcoat, even if it looks fairly sunny in the morning.

I usually lean towards waterproof parkas or padded jackets. I value practicality over fashion, to be honest, so having something lightweight that keeps the rain off and has plenty of deep pockets is ideal when I'm commuting on the bus.

Yes, I have about three or four. One is a thick wool coat for smarter occasions like family dinners, whereas the others are more casual windbreakers that I just throw on for running errands or walking in the park.

Not really, no. My parents used to bundle me up in these enormous, heavy duffel coats that felt really restrictive. I remember struggling to run around the school playground because I could barely bend my arms!

First and foremost, I check the fabric to see if it is durable and warm enough. Then I pay attention to the fit, as I like having enough room underneath to wear a thick jumper without feeling completely smothered.