1843 magazine

A classic ensemble

This British virtuoso sounds her trumpet for these timeless coats

Alison Balsom knows how to make a trumpet sing. A soloist widely regarded as the best classical trumpet player of her generation, she has been feted for her ability to convey the many voices of her instrument. The clothes in her wardrobe exhibit a similar versatility. Balsom spends a lot of time on the road, travelling from airport to concert hall and back. “You can never have too many coats,” she says, but not all coats are made equal. “The best are classically beautiful and timeless – armour for your day.” They ensure that, no matter whether she’s en route to a recital or picking up her son from school, she hits the right sartorial note. ~ CHARLIE McCANN

Photographs Troy Word Stylist Olivia Pomp

ABOVE Black wool blazer coat, DAKS, £695/$980. Black harem trousers, Emporio Armani, £320/$625. Black laser-cutout ankle boots, Jimmy Choo, £750/$975

Tan leather trench coat,Tod’s, £6,890/$12,425. Burgundy suede court shoes, Jimmy Choo, £395/$515
Camel wool coat, BOSS, £850/$1,105. Wool rollneck jumper, BOSS, £220/$286
Double-breasted blue-suede trench coat, L.K.Bennett, £995/$1,695. Printed blue trousers, Marni, price upon request. Black laser-cutout ankle boots, Jimmy Choo, £750/$975
Wool cashmere blazer coat, J.Crew, £495/$650. Endeavour Centre Seconds watch in white gold, H. Moser & Cie, £16,300/$24,400
Trench coat, Burberry, £1,395/$1,835. Cotton striped rollneck top, J.Crew, £39.50/$50
Camel and grey double-faced cashmere coat, The White Company, £329/$430. Light camel suede wrap dress, Whistles, £395/$750. 18kt yellow gold and diamonds sabre ring, Shaun Leane, £10,500/$13,950
Black and cream cashmere Donegal coat, Polo Ralph Lauren, £849/$1,115
Jacquard silk coat, Bally, £1,295/$1,995. Black leather dress, BOSS, £700/$910. Wide black belt, L.K.Bennett, £110/$185 Alison Balsom’s next album is Jubilo (Warner Classics), released Nov 4th

Photographer’s assistant: Verity FitzGerald Stylist’s assistant: Felicity Gray Watches and jewellery: Melanie Grant

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