THE GREAT COVER UP
Winter’s most prized investment, the secret to the perfect coat lies in its shape and fit, says Grace Cahil
My current wardrobe is beginning to look like a fashion editor’s cliché — consisting of black and dark grey — mostly because my growing bump means I’m limited to a handful of winter items that still fit me.
I’m one of those people that tends to leave shopping for colder weather until the last minute. Summer is my season.
This year I have the bump to consider so here I am waxing lyrical on coats after some much needed trying on over the weekend.
An afternoon trawl on the high street, I’ll admit, did instil some confidence as I discovered options in every colour of the rainbow in cocoon, teddy and duffle shapes.
Coats are probably the one item we ask the most of in winter.
You want a sleek, stylish statement that also keeps you toasty for work, after work, to sling over jeans at the weekend, for parties and winter weddings.
Whether high street or designer, a statement coat is likely to be your biggest wardrobe spend so choosing something you won’t grow tired of wearing every day is key.
It’s a tricky task for even the savviest of shoppers but a few factors make it easier to find the perfect shape.
The most important factors are cut and fit. Too long and it swamps you, too short and you look like something is missing.
I love to introduce colour through checks or plaids. These prints bring high definition energy to outfits and are both classic (in a country sort of way) and contemporary.
Equally cream and blush pinks in heavier wool and tweeds feel fresh and add texture to darker shades. With teddy styles, I prefer long, elongated silhouettes and usually downsize for proportion.
Their bulky nature used to deter me slightly (no-one needs extra furry inches to their frame) but I’ve come around to their super soft, sensory appeal especially on dark, miserable winter days.
Topshop, New Look, Marks and Spencer and Next (all at Dublin 1’s Jervis Centre) have covetable coats in chocolate, caramel and biscuit tones, perfect with draped printed midi dresses, knee high boots and bold accessories for a look that speaks to women of all ages.