The gilet is a great alternative to a coat

Well, we have certainly had a mild autumn, give or take some pretty violent storms and everyone is now wondering if we are going to get ...

Well, we have certainly had a mild autumn, give or take some pretty violent storms and everyone is now wondering if we are going to get a repeat of the last few winters with heavy snowfall and icy temperatures. Given that is has remained relatively mild, many of us have so far resisted putting on the heating or pulling the heavy coats out from the back of the wardrobe. It has been a season for the gilet to really come into its own.

This fantastic garment is a life saver in so many situations. So much less bulky and cumbersome than a coat, it retains core body heat when it is just a little nippy, and by leaving arms unrestricted, means you can get on with lots of tasks without getting too hot. Just as good indoors as outdoors, the gilet can really be worn whenever and wherever you like. While coats are usually taken off as soon as you enter a building, you don't need to deprive yourself of the cosy warmth of a gilet if you don't want to. No-one will look askance if you keep it on in a slightly cool setting, as it is not the sort of thing that goes straight onto the nearest coat-hook. Part of its attraction lies in the design. Gilets are stylish enough to complement even workplace clothes, looking just as good with smart trousers and a blouse as they do with jeans and a jumper.

Gilets are fast becoming a "must-have" item in the British woman's wardrobe due to their extreme versatility and usefulness. They are now available in a stunning range of designs, with the quilted look remaining both fashionable and functional. The tiny air pockets in the quilted fabric are wonderful at cushioning and retaining warmth. Bonmarche now features gilets with luxurious and sophisticated fur collars, which really elevate the garment into a terribly smart dimension. Where we may once have thought of the gilet as designated for outdoor jobs like gardening or dog-walking, they are now equally at home in restaurants or for a day at the races. This is not to say that their outdoor credentials are diminished. Far from it. They are absolutely ideal for exercise, whether strenuous or mild. There is nothing worse than being out on a long hike and feeling over-warm in a top heavy coat. Having a gilet allows the air to flow as you move around and yet your lower back and kidney area, which is prone to catching a chill in a sharp wind, remains protected.

Getting outside in the winter months is so good for every member of the family, and studies have shown that it can really assist in the prevention of Seasonal Affective Disorder, caused by lack of light. Walking for twenty minutes a day is highly recommended as a low impact and effective form of exercise, with immense benefits to cardio-vascular health and well-being. It is also the cheapest way to look after yourself, without the need for any extra equipment or trips to the gym.

Keeping a gilet by the back door is a great incentive to throw it on and step out for some fresh air, even if it does look a little windy or cold. Once you have discovered the freedom and flexibility that a gilet affords, you will never regret its purchase. In fact, you are much more likely to consider getting a few more - and you'll wonder how you ever got through a winter without one. Whatever the weather brings, we will be prepared for it with our gilets at the ready!