Winter staple doesn't have to be purely functional

Winter is upon us and outside it's a sea of puffy coats and parkas.

Although these options may be warm, they're often lacking in the fashion department.

Winter dressing doesn't have to be purely functional; you can make a style statement and still keep warm at the same time. Best of all, it's the perfect time to rethink your outerwear options, as holiday sales have started in stores across town. Coats that might normally break the bank have suddenly become a lot more affordable.

Before hitting the shops, its helpful to know what you're looking for to avoid buying something on impulse that you might regret later. Choose a piece that matches your personal style, is versatile, sophisticated and keeps you warm says Sharon Zohorsky, a personal shopper at Holt Renfrew.

Specifics to think about include fabric, fit, colour, trend and, of course, price.

First things first: fabric. Wool is the most durable option and is available in numerous blends to suit any budget. Cashmere offers more warmth and luxury than basic wool, but is less durable and comes with a hefty price tag. A happy middle ground is a wool and cashmere blend, as it provides the best of both worlds and won't cost a fortune.

For warmth and wow factor, consider fur, it is extremely warm, can last a lifetime and never goes out of style. If you feel ethically challenged buying new fur, vintage fur is an affordable and more guilt-free option.

In terms of length, you'll want something that comes to at least the knee, as more fabric equals more coverage from the cold and wind. Fitted, single or double-breasted silhouettes are a safe bet, but make sure you have room to layer either a sweater or suit jacket underneath. Cocoon coats and slouchier shapes provide extra room for layering on colder days without making you look bulky.

For colours, black is always a safe bet; its classic, goes with everything and hides dirt and stains. Camel is the "it" colour this season, however it will require more trips to the dry cleaners. If you're going for a print, plaid is a playful yet traditional option that's always in style.

Avoid white or beige they may seem chic in theory, but are a nightmare to keep clean in reality. Bright pop colours can also seem like fun, but often don't translate well from one year to the next.

When considering trends, think about shapes and details that aren't based on fads that will quickly disappear.

This year, fur collars and trim and leather accents have been popular, and will still look stylish in years to come, says Zohorsky. Pieces featuring menswear-inspired tailoring or military influences are additional ways to up your fashion factor.

In setting your price point, think of your winter coat as an investment - something you'll have for at least three to five years, or even longer. The more money spent up front on a quality item, the less money spent on replacements down the road.

If you're stuck on price, vintage or consignment stores are great places to find one-of-a-kind, high quality coats for a steal.

Fast fashion retailers, such as Zara and H&M, always have less expensive versions of coats seen on the runways, making it easier to justify buying a more trendy style. However, its important to remember: cutting corners on cost often means sacrificing quality. Budget a few extra dollars today and be thankful in a few years when your coat looks just as fresh and stylish as it did the day you bought it.