Wrapped up in Winter Coats

With the current temperature in Toronto, it’s hard to believe that winter is only weeks away. Apparently, it’s supposed to be a mild Canadian winter, but I guess we shall see what mother nature has planned. None the less, you need to be prepared. You don’t necessarily have to shop a particular trend. I think when it comes to buying a winter coat, buy a coat that looks good on you. If you want longevity spend a little more on a really well-made coat that you can wear next season or for a few years. For the coats that err more on the side of style than praticality and warmth look for something that won’t leave too much of a dent in your bank account. When it comes to coats, well-made handbags and shoes, it’s okay to make a bit of an investment. I think it’s a good idea to have more than one winter coat. There are days when a down filled jacket is necessary; minus zero weather is not the time for your style icon concerns. Then there are the nicer days, yes, when it’s still cold but not so cold you tell yourself and you can wear a really stylish coat.

 

Blanket Coat

Blanket Coat, otherwise knowns as the poncho. To be honest it’s pretty much the same thing. I own a few of these. You really can’t go wrong with this purchase. It’s the perfect coat to wear while you’re in the mall Christmas shopping. Leave your bulky coat at home and opt for a blanket coat. It’s a great way to accessorize an outfit. The good thing about a blanket coat is that you can make it yourself with an oversized scarf. Simply fold your scarf into a triangle (doesn’t have to be perfect) and drape the triangle base over your shoulders and wrap it around you. You will notice stores like Aritzia sell oversized wool scarves during the fall and winter months for this purpose. There is a lot of room for you to play with this look and most blanket coats and scarves come in a variety of styles and fabrics. One look I like is the leather jacket and blanket coat combination. Simply layer your blanket coat over your jacket. It’s added warmth and style in one.

 

 

Shearling,

You may remember that shearling made it’s comeback last winter. Well, it’s back again this season. In fact, I appreciate a high quality shearling. It’s a nice rustic yet posh look that I am quite fond of. It’s what I call the you care but don’t care kind of look…I hope that makes sense! Typically, you think beige when it comes to shearlings  but you will notice softer silhouettes of deep greens or greys or even different colours patched together this season (remember I mentioned patchwork on denim as well). I would say this look is great for those who are looking for a statement piece that offers functionality, practicality and style.

 

Duvet Coats

I remember the first time I wore my duvet coat, it’s purple, puffy and looks like something out of the 70s. So when I saw this trend on the runway last season and again this season (Fendi showcased some great coats) I felt vindicated. I will say, this style is for the adventurous style maven, who really doesn’t care what other people think. It’s a soft plush mountain of fabric carefully designed and crafted into a stylish coat. It feels like you got out of bed but brought your duvet with you, except you’re the only one in on the secret. I love, love this look. One of my favourite brands that does variations of this style is ADD Down. I have two ADD Down winter coats in black. The large fluffy neck turns into a hood…I love it! The oversized neck, it’s pretty much a built in scarf, it’s the perfect coat for the frigid temperatures that winter brings. I would say it’s an updated puff jacket; perhaps the mature adult version.

 

 

Wrap Coat

I have a nice Mackage winter wrap coat in white. I bought it a few seasons ago. I am in need of a new one, preferably a dark grey or black. A coat like this is perfect for the fall and winter months. It’s a very polished look that carries you through the entire winter season. In addition, it’s suitable for your day wear and night attire. Dress it up or dress it down. A well-made wrap coat is a good investment. I will still use my white wrap coat this winter and many years to come (yes winter white is a good idea).  Most wrap coats have a large belt either made with the same fabric or in some cases leather or fur.

 

XXL Coat

This is an oversized yet fitted men’s styled coat for women. It’s your boyfriend’s coat that you can actually pull off because it won’t look ridiculously too big on you. Personally, this wouldn’t be my main winter coat. It’s a great addition to your wardrobe but in my opinion it’s more of an accessory item. This all depends on where you live as well. If you live in Vancouver, you can get away with a coat like this as your main winter coat. Vancouver doesn’t get too cold, it mainly rains during the winter. If you live in a city like Toronto, you may want to have a heavy duty coat with a hood in addition to this one. I like this style though so had to include it on my must haves list.

 

 

Cover Photo: Fendi Duvet Coat