THE CHIC LIST: Coat cachet? Amal's my gal

I have a confession: I'm fascinated by George and Amal Clooney.

And not just by their combined star power – Amal, 45, a knockout human rights lawyer with an enviable designer and vintage wardrobe, who also does excellent coat (more about coats in a moment); George, 62, still box-office gold and probably the most gorgeous man ever born.

No, I've become fascinated by their rather odd PDAs (public displays of affection) whenever they are seen out together. To be frank, I find their body language a total mind boggle.

Married for almost a decade and parents to six-year-old twins, Amal and George behave like they're on the set of a romantic movie – but one from Hollywood's golden era rather than anything modern day.

The two of them staring dreamily into each other's eyes and smiling like smug cheshire cats can be a little nauseating to watch.

Super-slender Amal, with her beautiful swishy locks, often looks like she's being propped up by George's arm – making me wonder if she can manage her very high heels.

During interviews, she's always beaming and nodding at George like he's an old sage and barely utters more than a few words even though she's hugely articulate in court representing high-profile political prisoners and survivors of atrocities.

Amal, we all know you're besotted, but on the red carpet we need all the strong women with a brain we can get!

When it comes to coats, though, I have zero quibbles with Amal. Coats, as she knows, have the power to confer personality, and I adore her array of chic structured ones that tie her winter outfits together.

If you are thinking of buying a new coat this season, here are my tips to get it as right as she does…

• Try to have two different lengths in your wardrobe – a mid one to go with jeans and tailored trousers and a long one that can be worn over maxi dresses and skirts. (Mid-length coats and long dresses and skirts simply don't work).
• Invest well and a quality winter coat will last many years and, like a fine wine (or George Clooney), only get better with age. Fabric is key so always check the label – the more real wool, the warmer it will be.
• The devil is in the detail: whether it's a designer buy or high-street number, keep an eye out for those small touches that'll make your coat feel properly finished and luxe on a cold day, whether it's a covered button, silk lining or blind-stitched hemline.
• Top coat trends this season are pinstripes, which go with everything, the cocoon shape, a red wraparound and, for minimalists, white bouclé.

@thestylistandthewardrobe

@youmagazine

ON MY BUCKLE LIST 

There has been lots of hype this season about the return of the ballet flat and the Mary Jane. I'm a fan of both and love these metallic ones by British brand Penelope Chilvers for elevating an outfit.

TOP NOTCH 

Need to raise your belt game this autumn? Then check out the terrific selection at high-street hero Cos. This classic style comes in different colours and will add real edge to tailoring.

GET A GRIP 

I recently watched Arnold, the Netflix documentary about Arnie Schwarzenegger, and it was fascinating. What determination 'I'll be back' Arnie possessed.

And the stylish wardrobe and use of a French rectangle hair clip by his now ex-wife, Maria Shriver – journalist and niece to JFK – was a joy to watch. After 25 years of marriage, Arnie blew it up by cheating on her with the housekeeper. D'oh, Arnie, d'oh.