Wool coat in London in January?

Definitely the long wool coat. It will be cold and you will be much happier in it. We went to London in December last year and sometimes, I was cold even in my wool coat, hat, scarf and gloves. Not only will you be more comfortable but you will blend in better, London can be pretty dressy. Enjoy, London is fabulous!

I go there all the time. In fact, just came back a few weeks ago. Definately the wool coat. I always to fine with my wool pea coat when I'm there. You'll also fit right in to the crowd, because that's what everyone seems to wear...black or charcoal grey wool coats, many with Passmina silk scarves for a splash of color. Who would have thought those heavy indian silk scarves could keep a person as warm as they do in 30 degree weather?

A long wool coat, hat, scarf and gloves.

Long wool coat.

I was in London last month (Dec) and had my lined trench coat. It was warm and provided protection from the rain as well.

Wow Janine, I'm going to Paris next week, and am bringing a long black, fake fur lined coat that I bought pretty much solely to wear in Paris in the winter -- as I will probably only wear it once or twice a year in SF! I was in Paris last January and it was kind of nice a few days, but then got very cold, and I am monitoring the weather every day and see it's cold there now. A warm coat is a must. And for a big city, you want something a bit dressier than a ski jacket. Unfortunately if I try to pack the coat in my carry-on it takes up the whole space, so I will have carry it with me on the flight, which will be a pain, but I know it will be fabulous in Paris!
Bon voyage, and congratulations on your first trip to Europe.