Chic, lightweight rain macks: a fashion editor's pick for women over 50

Shane Watson, a fashion editor, has trawled the High Street for coats that pair elegance with rain protection for women over 50. In a feature for the Daily Mail, she argues that middle age marks a shift toward practical, well-made outerwear that still reads chic. Watson notes that many women in their 50s want a lightweight rain repeller that can be worn year‑round without looking dowdy or overdressed. “You know you’re officially middle aged when you find yourself in pursuit of the perfect waterproof,” Watson writes, framing the search as a balance between function and style. The goal, she says, is to avoid the unglamorous look of a bulky raincoat while still staying prepared for changeable weather. A modern, lightweight waterproof is presented as a smart move in more ways than one, especially for days when a full winter coat would feel excessive. She emphasizes that these pieces should roll up neatly, fit into a bag, and transition easily from morning errands to work or social outings.

The centerpiece of Watson’s roundup is the Rains long jacket, a three‑quarter‑length trench that includes a hood with an built‑in peak. She highlights the hood as a signature detail that elevates a practical piece into something more polished, noting that the minimal, unadorned hood and a tight drawstring can dramatically improve how rain protection looks. The jacket is made from a lightweight, almost rice‑paper‑like fabric that feels premium and wears light on the body. Color options span muted neutrals, with her own pick in khaki (“marsh”), though navy and cream are also popular. The design features a V‑cut back hem to keep the silhouette from appearing too boxy, welded seams to ensure against leaks, and a streamlined, unisex feel courtesy of sleek poppers and clean lines. Watson points out that the coat folds away to a compact size, and its minimalist look gives it a modern, Scandi chic vibe that’s flattering on many body shapes. While this particular style isn’t the least expensive option, its performance and longevity have earned it strong endorsements from Watson’s circle of style-minded friends. The Rains option is available in a shorter, cheaper version (£65) at John Lewis and a full longer version (£100) at uk.rains.com, underscoring the brand’s balanced approach to price and quality.

![Shane Watson trench coat](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2025/09/21/17/102325673-0-image-m-15_1758471427946.jpg