Coats 101

Image: AliRo

Hiya everyone,

Laura from Fashionista Social Club has written to us from Calgary. She sent a neat little education on outerwear.
Enjoy!


Coats 101;
by Laura Fairfield

Winter is fast approaching so it is time to take a good look at your most important fall/winter item: the coat. Here are a few things to consider if you are shopping for a new coat this season:

1. Acquire classics first. Although you might be tempted by the season's latest trends, spend the lion's share of your budget on classic styles and colors. Update your look each year with cute scarves and hats.

2. Buy natural fibres. Think wool, cashmere and mohair. Natural fibres will typically look better, longer. That said, some really great coats come in synthetics - so buy them, just expect a little more "maintenance".

3. Focus on fit. Check shoulder fit, waist height and sleeve length. If you wear a lot of blazers, make sure you try your coat on with a jacket underneath. Your alterationist is your friend. An ill-fitting garment looks cheap so spend the money to make sure your coat fits just right.

4. Spend as much as you can afford. A great quality coat can last a lifetime. Make sure the fabric and quality of construction (outside and in) match the price tag.

5. A stitch in time. When that lucky coat comes home with you, reinforce the buttons. It doesn't matter how much you pay for a garment, the buttons inevitably fall off. Save yourself the tears, and the fruitless search for a matching button, and give them a few stitches before you wear the coat.

After you've got a few classics in the closet, have fun with coats! Buy color, prints, and trendy styles. "A coat for every outfit" can be your motto.