Introduction
When the weather turns chilly, a quality coat makes all the difference in keeping warm while looking stylish. The right topper instantly pulls together an outfit while protecting you from the elements. Choosing coat shapes and fabrics suited for your climate ensures you can make an entrance all season long.
This article will break down the essential coat silhouettes and on-trend styles to include in your cold weather wardrobe. You’ll also find layering tips and advice for caring for investment coats. Read on to discover the perfect topper for getting through winter in fashionable comfort!
Benefits of Investment Coats
Quality coats offer many advantages:
- Provide superior warmth from chillier temps
- Represent a sound long-term investment
- Offer versatility to dress up or down
- Guard against rain, snow and wind
- Allow you to make a stylish statement
- Keep their structure and shape over time
- Can be restyled with trim additions year after year
Let’s explore how to choose coat lengths to best flatter your frame.
Choosing the Right Coat Length
Consider your height when selecting a flattering coat length:
Long Coats
Hits below the knee. Flatters taller frames.
Midi Coats
Falls below hip to the mid-calf. Ideal for average heights.
Hip Length
Hits at hip bone. Most versatile on most figures.
Cropped Jackets
Waist length crop flatters petite frames.
Choosing the most flattering length for your body lays the foundation for styling success! Now let’s get familiar with essential coat silhouettes.
Essential Coat Silhouettes
These classic coat styles stand the test of time:
Peacoats
Double-breasted and fitted through the torso with wide lapels. Traditionally made of wool.
Overcoats
Longer coats in camel, grey herringbone or textured wools. Relaxed and slouchy or slim and tailored.
Trench Coats
A must-have! Belted coats with notched lapels, epaulettes, storm flaps and D-ring details define this iconic style.
Parkas
Thickly padded or down-filled coats with spacious hoods to protect from the elements. Choose fur-trimmed styles for dramatic effect.
Puffer Jackets
Quilted nylon coats filled with down alternative for utmost lightness and warmth. Make a sporty style statement.
Now that you’re familiar with the classics, let’s check out some trending styles.
On-Trend Coat Styles
Keep your coat selection fresh with these of-the-moment looks:
Faux Fur Details
Fun, fuzzy faux fur adorns coat collars, hoods, sleeves and hemlines in bold color pops.
Oversized Shapes
Exaggerated cocoon and boxy shapes in solid neutrals feel modern and edgy.
Belted Waists
Add definition even with thicker coats by cinching waists with wide built-in belts.
Modern Plaids
Buffalo check and oversized blanket plaids lend a contemporary twist to heritage silhouettes.
Now that you’ve picked your coat, it’s time for stylish layering.
Layering Your Coat
Mix and match layers under your coat:
- Sweaters and cardigans
- Statement scarves
- Collared blouse or shirt
- Lightweight turtleneck
- Vest to add warmth without bulk
- Contrasting jacket for stylish effect
Strategically layering under your coat elevates any cold weather look. Extend its usefulness by keeping coats looking pristine.
Caring for Investment Coats
- Dry clean wool and cashmere coats at end of season
- Use steamer to smooth wrinkles in between wears
- Prevent stretching by avoiding hanging coats for storage
- Use garment bags or encase in cotton pillowcase for storage
- Act quickly to fix loose buttons or torn lining
With some simple care, your coat will be ready to flaunt each winter!
Building a Coat Wardrobe
Aim to collect:
- 1 long dress coat in luxurious wool or cashmere
- 1 durable water-resistant everyday parka or trench
- 1 or 2 fun lightweight down or quilted coats
- An assortment of casual and dressy cropped coats and jackets
Conclusion
Elegantly elevate your winter style by choosing investment coat silhouettes tailored to flatter your frame. Look for of-the-moment belted, oversized and fur-trimmed styles along with timeless wool overcoats and trenches. Layer thoughtfully and care for pieces properly so they stand the test of time. Stay cozy while making a fashion-forward statement this season!
FAQs
Q1: What length coat flatters petite figures best?
A1: Cropped, waist-length coats avoid overwhelming more diminutive frames. Medium hip length also works well.
Q2: What makes a good everyday coat?
A2: Look for water-resistant wool or trench coats to stand up to daily wear. Avoid delicate fabrics like cashmere.
Q3: What layering pieces work under coats?
A3: Sweaters, cardigans, collared shirts, turtlenecks, scarves and vests maximize warmth without bulk.
Q4: How often should you dry clean coats?
A4: Dry clean wool and cashmere coats once at the end of winter to remove dirt and oils. Otherwise, steam or spot clean.
Q5: What length coats flatter taller women?
A5: Maximize height with long coat styles hitting below the knee. Avoid cropped jackets.
