Max Mara's Iconic Coats Are Built to Layer

model in leather max mara coat
Max Mara's Iconic Coats Are Built to Layer Matthew Sprout

It's an undeniable fact—the cornerstone of any cold-weather wardrobe is a chic coat. Not only is it functional, in terms of keeping you warm, but it's the first piece of clothing anyone you meet sees. In order to make the best first impression—and to telegraph to all who see you who you are and what you're about—you need one that doesn't just keep you cozy, but has a smart silhouette and divine design that helps you make a style statement.

Max Mara has always known this; season after season, the heritage label takes quality-crafted pieces of outerwear and finesses them into iconic wardrobe standouts.

Meet Ussuri, Ethel, Manuela, and Ludmilla. This quartet of timeless, yet of-the-moment coats features strong structures and soft finishes. Here, they come to life against the backdrop of the stately buildings of New York City's Financial District. Discover our take on styling these pieces of wearable art.

Ussuri 101801

model in leather max mara coat
Matthew Sprout

The impact of a beautiful leather coat can't be overstated. It's equal parts modern and timeless. Ussuri is crafted from soft nappa leather, for a draping effect that melts to your body and pairs beautifully with your favorite knit layers. Its oversized, double-breasted shape, lapel, and detailed buttons banish boring outfit days no matter what you're wearing underneath. Lean into the coat's deep brown hue by bringing in tonal pieces in complementary shapes, such as a form-fitting, cocoa-colored knit top and a ballooning, hazelnut skirt.

Manuela

model in cream max mara coat
Matthew Sprout

Since its inception in 1998, Manuela has served as an example of what a wrap coat should look and feel like. The cashmere icon gets all of the proportions just right; it's crafted in a straight silhouette with a wide lapel and matching belt, because a cinched waist is unfailingly flattering.

Manuela's sandy hue makes it easy to transition from day-to-night, especially when it's worn with monochromatic layers. Add in textural staples like a cozy turtleneck and dial up the drama with wide-leg trousers to finish the look.

Ethel

model in grey max mara coat
Matthew Sprout

A strong antidote to the season's nippy temperatures, Ethel feels cozy, but is impeccably crafted so that it's ready for any occasion. This double-breasted, alpaca and cashmere coat—an evolution of the 101801 Icon coat—has all of the design details you'd expect but with innovative finishes. Case in point: The clever zip sleeves, which open internally from wrist to elbow for ease of movement.

With its neutral color and notch collar, Ethel is wildly versatile and elevates any look. For a fresh take, contrast the coat's hue with languid layers in a zippy citrus yellow.

Ludmilla

This sumptuous A-line coat is hand-stitched from double-faced sable cashmere (as in, it's heavenly soft) and is designed to drape in all the right places. It has wide sleeves and large patch pockets for an effortless yet elegant look you'll want to wear every day.

If you're lucky enough to add this coat to your collection, you'll quickly find it's a dream when it comes to styling possibilities. There's not much it doesn't work with but to keep the relaxed yet refined vibe going, try it with a structured midi skirt paired with tall boots.

max mara coat
Matthew sprout - Hearst Owned

All clothing and accessories by Max Mara. Art Direction by Mandi Hayes; Production by Hannah Miller; Fashion Direction by Sarah Ferguson; Wardrobe Styling by Barbara Velez; Hair by Amy Farid; Makeup by Deanna Hagan; Video by Kyrre Kristoffersen.

You Might Also Like

Advertisement