How To Find The Perfect Winter Coat
If you do not own a long hem coat this is your sign to put one on the list! Long coats are a great because, they can be worn dressed up or to dress a look up. Whether you are heading to work or having a I don’t want to get out of my pajama but, still need to leave the house day. I decided to style the coats with a casual look to show you how much a beautiful coat can really make the outfit. I highly recommend investing in a good quality coat and if you can only choose one style opt for a longer one first but, ultimately you do what works best for you! The extra length will keep you much warmer and give you more wardrobe options [skirts, dresses ect]in the winter. If you are a thrifter start there first, I have found so many amazing quality pieces for pennies over the years.
I think coats can sometimes be placed on the low priority list because, you are just wearing it for warmth right? We are only wearing them when we are outside so why does it matter what it looks like? Which is true the most important function of a coat is to keep you shielded from the cold weather but, when design and function meet DING DONG!
A few things to remember when shopping for a winter coat
Fit + Comfort | As with clothes and your body shape outerwear is no different. You want to consider the lines of the coat is it boxy or fitted. What does it do to your silhouette? Is it comfortable and easy to layer underneath if you can only wear it over t shirts not going to get a lot of use in the winter months. If it looks great but you have no room in the shoulders or arms, put it back on the hanger. Tightness in these areas is a big red flag. When shopping for winter coats, always make sure you have plenty of room around the upper body. When trying on winter coats, it helps to come prepared with a few different layers to throw on underneath while in the changing room, or just go for a bigger size than you would normally. You will not reach for a coat that doesn’t fit comfortably no matter how cute it is. What is the closure type zip, buttons, or both?
Color + Print | What is your go to color pallet in your wardrobe? What colors and prints to you naturally gravitate towards. Some would say that neutral colors are the only safe bet because, they go with everything which is true but, if you are like me and love color you can just as easily find a color that compliments your wardrobe and goes with everything. This is why I want to show specifically an outfit with print and color to show how they can work with many different coat colors and prints. If you want something classic and timeless that you can wear for a lifetime choosing a grey, black, or camel will be your best bet. At the end of the day you want to wear what not only keeps you toasty but, that you feel fabulous wearing.
Fabric + Detailing | Depending on where you live and what your weather jam is will determine the weight and type of fabric you need. In different climates there will be different materials that are best. If it's cold, look for vegan wool, or down etc. Or, if it's wet and windy look for water resistant and windproof fabrics. Don't purchase coats that won't work for your climate -- they might be lovely, but you'll never get the wear out of them and you'll likely regret it. How is the coat structured with zippers, buttons, or neither. Are there a lot of so called bells and whistles making it more of a process to get it on and off? What is the style and fit? Avoid trends you want something that will be beautiful to wear years from now and still be in style.