It’s time to be a grown up and buy a raincoat. Here are five of our favourites

Summer is well and truly over. The names of the storms were announced like nominations for the Oscars and the country is already bracing itself for a battering from the elements. The majority of outerwear I own seems to be sans a hood. They are fabulous coats but highly impractical. Rain doesn’t like faux fur and sometimes umbrellas implode upon you as the wind pushes you down O’ Connell Street. It’s at that moment you realise you need a raincoat.

Raincoats remind me of primary school and my mother forcing me to bring a coat with me on any excursion even when I was convinced I didn’t need one. And in every instance she was right and I was terrifically wrong. Though I fought it, I have arrived at the conclusion that I now need one and have made it my mission to find the most stylish raincoats on the market right now.

Short check trench coat, €59.95 at Zara

With a Burberry look and feel this is the perfect raincoat to get you through the rainy months. Pair with leather trousers and pointy ankle boots for a modern style with a touch of practicality.

Maxi borg lined rainwear, €82.95 at Asos

This is the type of raincoat that I once thought was too cool for me. Doc Martins and a beanie hat would elevate it to new style heights, but I have short legs so Doc’s are unforgiving. However, to alleviate this issue I would pair it with a heeled boot and a cropped jean to elongate my frame.

Khaki lightweight parka, €48.39 at Asos

A khaki parka is an undeniable classic. It goes with everything and is a stress-free option for those winter mornings. This Asos option is lightweight which means you can easily place five layers underneath for extra warmth and comfort.

A-line Parka, €49.99 at h&m

Winter in Ireland is dreary enough without our wardrobes being clouded in darkness, but this H&M number is the sartorial equivalent of the sun. The A-line shape with dropped shoulders and wide neckline is flattering for all shapes and the price point is an absolute winner.

Leopard print semi-sheer raincoat, €39.95  at Zara

Animal print is everywhere this season and has made the transition into raincoat territory with this Zara number. If you don’t want to dip fully into the leopard print trend, semi-sheer is a great way to introduce it to your daily wardrobe without it being leopard overkill. It has a swinging Sixties vibe and will add sufficient edge to the simplest of outfits.