Forget the forecast

By Nicola St John

Believe it or not, you’ll be willing the rain on this winter.

Why, you ask? Because with rain comes raincoats, gumboots and umbrellas – making a debut this season in a new range of colours and designs.

Guaranteed to excite despite the downpours, the classic raincoat has had a modern twist with more interesting colours and patterns. Think sexy goddess in red polka-dots, fine tailoring and a burst of orange and rust.

Designers such as Philip Lim, Burberry and Jason Wu have transformed the traditional trench, into something contemporary with transparent chic raincoats and jackets. Lim’s cropped rain-jacket is a smoky translucent tailored piece, as far removed from a plastic poncho as possible.

Wu has featured semi-sheer pastel raincoats, teaming them with florals underneath – allowing what you’re wearing underneath to show through.

Rag and Bone showed bright blues and oranges in a sporting take on the anorak – guaranteed to keep you dry. Also leading the way in bright hues is Donna Karan, whose magenta jacket and matching hat will be sure to have you noticed among black umbrellas.

These runway looks are sure to make their way to chain stores this season.