COATED STATEMENTS

Coats can create a statement piece that will be worn daily to not only ward off the chill, but define you as a fashionista as you walk the streets, whether at work or at play. And with every new season that comes along, refreshing takes on that winter necessity fill the stores. Here's our rundown of the hottest styles of winter coats to hit the streets. With this hot list, you'll be warm with style.

CREAM OF THE CROP

Just like jackets have taken to shorter lengths, hitting at the waistline, coats have become drawn to shorter silhouettes, but this style calls for shorter sleeves. Look for cap sleeves or a version with a bracelet sleeve that hits just before your wrist. Designers such as Diane von Furstenberg and Tibi took a shine to this look for fall. You can nail this style by pairing this look with elbow-length gloves adorned with a cuff bracelet or a long-sleeved cashmere sweater.

TWO FOR THE MONEY

The military influence has been around so long that it might just become a classic instead of a trend. Double-breasted styles from Marc Jacobs and 3.1 Phillip Lim made turns down the runway and will find their way into your closet. This look really shines with skinny pants and flat boots. If you choose a somber color (black, charcoal or chocolate brown), avoid looking too patriotic by adding a shot of bright color with your scarf. Think purple or fuchsia.

SWINGING SINGLE

These sassy swing coats hit right at mid-thigh with their A-line silhouette. This season, huge buttons, rounded collars and simple lines accentuate this retro look. Alexander McQueen and Michael Kors turned to this look from the past for their winter wardrobes. To really rock this look, consider wearing a mini-skirt or mini-dress of the same length as the coat and don a pair of opaque tights. The '50s never looked so good.

TAKE A BELT

The elegant ladies will appreciate the polished look they get with a belted jacket. This season, the ladylike silhouette reigns supreme, and nothing makes a finer accessory than a belted coat. Look to Zac Posen and Burberry Prorsum for versions of this coat. To add your own style to this look, tie your belt in a messy knot. Nearly any style of attire, from skinny to wide-legged pants to skirts and dresses, will work underneath.

CARDIAC ATTACK

Sweaters came back in full force on the fall fashion runways, and they didn't ignore the coat as a friend. These coats take the sweater to a new level with their textures and woolen knits. This season, these warmer-uppers feature structured silhouettes with buckles or big buttons keeping you snug. Missoni and Sonia Rykiel fancied this style for their fall fashions. Layer this sweater coat with a cardigan version over a knit of your choice, and wear your knee-high boots or platform heels to give it a sleek shape.

MAKE A STATEMENT

Animal prints, patent leather, furs and eye-popping colors all take their turn on winter's favorite fashion. When you choose one of these, you make a statement that won't be forgotten. Look to Anna Sui or Rebecca Taylor for a coat that will turn any eye. You're best off letting this traffic-stopping look do the talking though. Consider a pared-down ensemble underneath to avoid clashing with your statement.

Contact Image Editor Susan Stapleton at sstapleton@reviewjournal.com or (702) 387-2909.