How to Find a Great Winter Coat
Now is a great time to find a new winter coat. This time of year there are more styles available in stores and a greater selection of sizes to be had before the latest selections are picked over. A winter coat is a key investment piece. It should be stylish and keep you warm. Quality is important. A winter coat is an investment so don’t be afraid to allocate more of your wardrobe dollars for this purchase.
What is a classic style coat? A coat in your “wardrobe neutral color” (camel, gray, navy, black, brown or taupe) or a color that can work for day or evening outings and goes with everything. A cashmere or wool coat with raglan sleeves is a very versatile choice since it works best over bulky items like sweaters and suit jackets. You can change the look of a classic coat by wearing it with a colored or patterned scarf, gloves (they are in again), belt and/or a hat.
 |
 |
 |
Fitted, belted or double-breasted styles are very fashionable but aren’t as practical because they won’t fit over as many types of clothing. A coat with a detachable fur collar allows for two different looks.
 |
 |
 |
Buy the best winter coat that you can afford. A good quality, classic style winter coat should last at least 10 years or longer. Look at your purchase on a cost per year basis as if you were buying it over time.
If you live in milder climates, a trench coat with a zip-out lining and a detachable hood never goes out of style and will keep you warm in cool weather and dry any season of the year .
8 things to consider when shopping for a winter coat:
1) Can I wear this coat for day and evening outings?
2} What weight is best (consider the climate you live in)?
3) How durable must it be (will I be using it every day for work)?
4) Will I wear it over pants or suit jacket, etc.?
5) What do I prefer in the range of dressy to conservative?
6) How well made is the coat (how are seams finished, etc.)?
7) How practical is the coat for my varied needs?
8) Is it within my budget?
Follow 4FashionAdvice.com’s board Winter 2014 on Pinterest.