It’s almost that time of year – in just a few weeks the last of the leaves will have fallen, the snow will have begun drifting in, and there will be absolutely no question of whether or not you need a coat.
When the streets are ice-glazed and it’s so bitterly cold that even that extra time you allow for your car to warm up still won’t take the chill out of the air, the only thing that will put a smile on your wind-burned face is the perfect coat.
A personal favorite this season is the longer, sometimes more formal pea coats and belted coats. Pea coats are always preferred because they are neat, chic, and, since they are double-breasted and traditionally wool, very, very warm. Come on now, sailors were the original pea coat trendsetters, how could you go wrong? This season, there are a lot of choices with the pea coat – the more traditional mid-length, knee-length designs, and A-line cuts.
Belted coats are gorgeous because they are so elegant and figure flattering. With the vast choices of styles and colors this season, you can’t go wrong. The length, however, is somewhat standard at mid-length. Any shorter and it would be casual, any longer and it might suggest a raincoat.
The choices in shape, color, and print are endless! Some are more conservative than others, just sporting a few small buttons in the same shade as the fabric, and a thin belt with a clasp. There are choices that are a bit flared at the bottom and some with a few pleats. Adding a belt to a solid piece of fabric cinches at the waist, which creates really classic-looking curves.
There are, of course, several styles of short coats for this year as well. Short coats can be very sporty and versatile in vinyl quilt, wool-blend, and plaids. Also, some styles are a little more street-chic, maybe not for everyday wear. The use of subtle color, ruffles, embroidery, and leather create a variety of coat styles that are just dying for a night out with skinny jeans and pumps.
This is a great time to shop for a coat because every store knows you need one. Department stores are a sure thing: Macys, Bloomingdales, Nordstrom – you’ll find what you’re looking for. Also try your favorite clothing or specialty stores like H&M, American Eagle, Forever 21, Hollister – you might find something a bit trendier than you’ll find in a department store. My favorite coat closet? Victoriassecret.com. Prices vary depending on your fancy, but the cuts and colors are beautiful.
Stay warm!
