Velvet Belted 2 Pocket Coat

This velvet coat caught my eye as I regularly attend film premieres and need something glamorous for the red carpet and after-show parties. Although it was generously reduced in the M&S Sale and would be a terrific bargain for the right person, it didn't suit me and had to be returned. There is little structure to the shape and the tailoring is very loose and when belted, it quite simply resembled a luxurious dressing gown! The lining was also thin, made from flimsy polyester and disappointing although probably kept within the constraints of a price point. Nonetheless, teamed with skyscraper heels and on a tall person would command a wow!

Waited for this to be reduced in the Sale as at full price it was a bit expensive, as only a winter/occasion garment! Like others have said it's in a loose fit dressing gown style, but the key is to make it fit better , if you're not supermodel tall (or under 30 - could wear a bin bag with style!) So....... I have simply cropped the length. It now ends just below the knee and this totally transforms it from a dowdy coat into a more suitable look for me. I find that most coats I buy look better on me if shortened and this one is no different. I may also add a button and button hole - or popper fastening at some point - but haven't decided on the best option yet. As this was 60% off in the sale the alteration is worth the cost.

If you want a lined dressing gown this is for you. The colour is beautiful but I can't quite get it! What was the concept, I tried in on and new instantly my friends would say 'got your dressing gown on then'. Sorry guys but this was such shame, needs more styling.

I was really looking forward to wearing this coat, but it simply didn't work on me. It is nicely made and a good colour, but is cut quite large. I am a standard size 12, but this size was too big all over. There is also some difficulty with the styling. Another reviewer comments that it is cut like a dressing gown and I agree. It may hang well, subject to sizing, on the tall and thin but for shorter more curvy clients it is unlikely to work. Regrettably, I have returned the item.

Knowing I was looking for a new Winter coat and the fact I love velvet, my dear Husband bought this for me. I'm afraid it went back in less than 24 hours. The quality is great, the look is AWFUL. All I needed was a night-cap and stripy bottoms and I could have auditioned for Wee Willie Winkie in panto. The dressing gown look may be high fashion on the catwalks of Milan, but in rural Norfolk - No! If M&S produces a wearable, classically designed velvet coat and I'll snap it up! Such a shame as it is so well made.

This was the velvet coat on practically every fashionable A/W 16 catwalk show and is definitely the one to own. The colour is absolutely perfect, the sizing is just fine, the velvet is lovely and soft and the piping details and lining are meticulous. The length is midi and I feel the sleeves are just long enough but then again it all depends on one's own proportions. Perfect for theatre, an easy or more formal dinner out, or for seasonal get togethers with friends this is the coat to have. One can even wear it at home over jeans with a cozy sweater. Personally, I love it and thank you M&S for really paying attention to what is happening on those fashion runways and bringing it to us at such an affordable price.