Forget puffer jackets, Zara Tindall just wore the only winter coat we want to look chic and keep warm this season

Zara Tindall's latest look has reminded us just how important coats are to winter styling, with the royal using a statement suede trench coat and a pop of demure leopard print to elevate her sleek all-black outfit.

Proving that the trench coat is the perfect, versatile style for winter too, Zara used the stunning Frances Tan Trench coat from Fairfax and Favour to elevate her chic all-back outfit for the first day of the annual Christmas Meeting at Cheltenham Racecourse, with the rich warm tone of the suede demanding attention and looking oh-so chic and cosy.

Leaving the statement coat to do all the talking, Zara kept the rest of her outfit understated with some monochrome styling and paired some leather-look skinny jeans with a black crew-neck kit, some black leather gloves, the Camilla Rose Millinery black wrap headband and finished off the look with LK Bennett's Sibella Suede Heeled Ankle Boots.

Get Zara Tindall's Look

The flattering winter coat was a great choice for the casual event, balancing an elevated look with a more laid-back touch thanks to the structured silhouette, which Zara highlighted by wearing the coats double-breasted buttons done up to highlight the sharply tailored collar and neat, belted waist.

The leather-look skinny jeans were a clever addition to the outfit, with the black waxed material giving a similar feel to sleek suit trousers, though they felt more fun and added a lovely clash of texture against the rich, heavy suede of the trench coat. Zara's leather gloves complimented them too and we love the thick, chunky choice of headband she opted for that not only held back her sleek, blonde strands from her face but also worked as a subtle though eye-catching accessory.

With a sleek black knitted jumper keeping her warm, Zara introduced a pop of pattern into her outfit with a leopard print shirt, which she layered underneath the knit so just a slither of the animal print poked out. We love this little detail that goes a long way in elevating the monochrome outfit and we are taking notes on the styling trick for when we next put together a one-toned look.

And aren't Zara's boots just the ideal winter boots style? With a sleek almond toe, chic black suede material and a comfortable-to-walk-in, leg-elongating heel, they finished off the outfit beautifully and we can see the style being oh-so versatile as they pair effortlessly well with jeans, maxi skirts, suit trousers and more party-ready mini dress looks too.

For a practical and stylish accessory, Zara carried the Medium Lottie Bag in Black Pebble from Aspinal Of London, with the crossbody being an affordable designer bag that's definitely going our wish list. The soft, subtly textured black leather, chic and shining crossbody chain strap, and the understated, simple design makes the style so classic and timeless and we love the understated look.

Finishing off the outfit with accessories, Zara added ALIGHIERI's The Crumbling Rock Hoop Earrings in Gold to her ears. The small gold hoops feature a fun textured design with the hoop being made up of little rock-like circles that fall in a double hoop for a contemporary and eye-catching take on the classic hooped earring look.