How to Shop for … an Overcoat
Because it's never too early to start planning your autumn wardrobe.
We may all be deep into summer fun, but autumn will be here before you know it. And if you’ve noticed anything by following MIDDI, it’s that every purchase I make—and therefore product I recommend—is the result of lots of research. So why not look now at a staple of your autumn wardrobe: the overcoat? A great overcoat finishes off any outfit nicely, be it office attire or jeans and a button-up shirt. And you don’t have to spend a lot of money on one as long as it fits well and is properly taken care of.
If you’re already making your autumn shopping list, here are five tips to help you pick an overcoat you’ll love for years to come:
1. Examine different fabric options.
The climate where you live will determine how thick of an overcoat you’re looking for. It should be heavier than a trench coat but thinner than a puffer. Wool and tweed are the most common and available in a range of colors and patterns. If you’re only going to have one overcoat, make it a neutral color that will go with everything. Camel is a favorite of mine, but I tend to stick with darker colors like navy, charcoal or green to avoid obvious stains.
2. Look for additional features to suit your needs.
Luckily, there are plenty of styles of overcoats out there to accommodate your climate and lifestyle. If you live somewhere extra cold, a shawl collar, hood or quilted lining can help you stay warm (some can even be removed to give you options). If you live somewhere hotter, consider an open coat without closures or one with a sash.
3. Leave room for layering.
A more traditional overcoat should drape neatly across the body, with no pulling or tugging. You should be able to raise your arms to shoulder height and hug yourself once it’s buttoned. Make sure you can wear a thicker sweater underneath it comfortably, but it shouldn’t be baggy (unless it’s cut for an oversized look). In short, think about what you’re most likely to wear beneath it and size up or down accordingly.
4. Opt for tailoring.
Tailoring can make any garment of any price look fantastic. For an overcoat, shortening the sleeves is an easy fix. You can also have it taken in a bit at the waist. Paying the money to have your coat tailored will make you look more pulled-together and make the coat look more expensive. And please, for the love of all that’s holy, if your overcoat has a vent in the back, be sure to cut it open before wearing it out.
5. Protect your purchase.
If you’re going to spend the money on a nice overcoat, check with the manufacturer for cleaning and storage options. Take it to the dry cleaner at the end of each season and then pack it away. Depending on what your coat is made of, you may need to store it differently from your other outerwear when it’s not in use. If it’s made of wool, a cedar hanger or ring can help protect it from moths. Otherwise, I love vacuum storage bags for packing away outerwear between seasons. Wool is also prone to pilling, which means you’ll need to use a shaver to keep it looking nice. Not a major task, but an extra one nonetheless.
Want more tips? Learn how to shop for daytime skincare products here.
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