IT’S THE YEAR OF THE COAT
Bundle up this winter with beautiful outerwear.
It only seemed like an endless summer. Already, the days are getting shorter, cooler and a little greyer. Winter is on its way, and that means the return of coat season. Don’t worry — that’s good news, because rarely, if ever, has there been a better season for outerwear.
Perhaps it’s because so much of North America struggled through so much winter this past year. Those who were caught without warm outerwear want to stock up for what promises to be another long cold season; meanwhile, those who were prepared for last year’s frigid weather are heartily sick of wearing the same parkas day after chilly day.
In any case, even here on the relatively warm West Coast, we are all craving something new to throw on over our suits and sweaters and party dresses.
That’s why retailers have stocked up on a huge selection of some of the most beautiful coats we’ve seen for a long, long time. In fact, this season, the coat is the essential statement accessory for your outfit, as important as your bag or shoes, if not more so.
If it’s been a while since you bought a new winter coat, this is the year to do it. If you already have a hard- working basic coat, this is the year to build your outerwear wardrobe with one or two or more fun and functional pieces.
For starters, the season is rich with investment-worthy pieces in luxurious fabrics, both classic and fashion- forward.
We’re seeing the return of great staples like militaryinspired pea coats, duffel coats and double- breasted overcoats with rows of buttons marching down the front. At the same time, we’re also seeing dramatically beautiful coats in contemporary cuts — think volume, asymmetry, bold colours and textures you’ll yearn to touch, like shearling, cashmere and soft tweeds — as well as sleek, simply elegant overcoats. We’re especially loving the new cocoon coats, with their retro vibe and forgiving silhouette.
But it’s not just about serious, big- money investment pieces. You can find plenty of fun and functional pieces at all price points. Look for bright colours, colour blocking, plaids and animal prints, as well as every sort of fabrication from tweed to leather to breathable, waterproof, high- tech synthetics.
These are the coats you’ll want for weekend fun. In addition to the pea coat, you can choose from parkas, motorcycle jackets, puffers and quilted vests. And get those visions of the Michelin Man out of your head — today’s quilted vests, jackets and coats are sleek, flattering and stylish while also being the most cozily practical outerwear you’ll own.
After all, while it’s great to have a coat that’s fashionable, it’s even more important to have one that’s functional. This year thankfully, you don’t have to choose between the two.
And that’s why we’ve decided this is the year of the coat. So go ahead, bundle up; things are getting cold out there.