I need two things

[UserX]

1. A waterproof fall coat for commuting. Needs to be very smart. Tan or black (also open to dark grey). Am 5’1” size 8/10. Budget up to £250.

1. Black ankle boots that go with everything. Not flat & prefer chunky heel. Should be reasonably comfortable & not too delicate. Budget up to £200.

Really hope you all can help, coats are so hard when you’re petite, would rather not look like I’ve borrowed something from DH. TIA!

1. I have the Protected Species parka but their Mac or Commuter may fit your needs. The fabric is very soft so they are not very structured, but are waterproof. I get a lot of compliments on mine. They let you order two sizes to try. They also had an amazing Mumsnet discount but think that may have finished now.

www.protected-species.com/shop/

1. I got an amazing pair of heeled Chelsea boots from Hobbs about 4 years ago and wish they would make them again as I live in them. Smart, go with everything and still looking pretty good after lots of wear. These are the closest they have in at the moment.

www.hobbs.co.uk/product/display?productID=0218-FH01-015H060&productvarid=0218-FH01-015H060-BLACK-37&refpage=new-arrivals/shoes-boots

Thanks for the links. The boots look promising so will try to find them tomorrow. The coats are lovely but far too unstructured, I’m really petite but also a little chubby so need that sort of thing quite fitted.

Cocoon Clothing is above your budget unless you see the perfect item in the sale, but they last for ever and are very smart in a classic way. (Mine is 20 years old.) Plus, they make to order so getting the length right shouldn't be difficult.

Hmmm cocoon looks nice but still a bit too much fabric. I really want something a little more fitted.

I know it’s over budget but I swear by Russell and Bromley boots.They last for years and are so stylish.

UserX, I know you have a very definite view on what you want (heaven knows, I am culpable of the same) but the advantage of being a little flexible on the precise definition of perfection often results in achieving something that is satisfactory for longer.

m.asos.com/women/coats-jackets/raincoats/cat/?cid=19208
m.asos.com/women/coats-jackets/raincoats/cat/?cid=19208

I'm 5ft - I've never had so many compliments as I get in my protected species coats. (I'm a 10-12 pear)

My Sam Edelman Petty boots are pretty fab and SE have lots of boots that are good for winter

I can't do the link for some reason but if you google mint velvet ink trench coat you can see the structured one I bought (its actually in the sale now annoyingly) . I'm short and a size 10 and it works for me.

Protected species here.

The best coat I have ever bought. It is waterproof. Properly waterproof.
Silky light and breathable too. Beautifully cut.

Other coats are water resistant. This one will keep you bone dry but not sweaty and frazzled.

I have the parka but I think you would love the Mac. Comes in lots of colours incl dark ones.

Just bought Protected Species too. Love! Do try it as it's v structured and flattering despite being the most beautifully soft fabric.

UserX, I know you have a very definite view on what you want (heaven knows, I am culpable of the same) but the advantage of being a little flexible on the precise definition of perfection often results in achieving something that is satisfactory for longer.

The one thing I wasn’t looking for was a life lesson but thanks anyway. As a hard to fit size I have to compromise on many styles so I do understand that flexibility is key. I was trying to be diplomatic as didn’t want to offend anyone who loves that style of coat but I really don’t like them. Am I allowed to have that opinion XingMing or should I spend £200 on something I hate?

Thanks everyone who offered actual suggestions. Sorry for not liking protected species.

I bought a second pair of these because I live in fear of the first pair wearing out.

They go with everything.