We all love our staple winter coat. Maybe it's a new addition this season, or maybe it's a steadfast friend that we've had for 5+ years. It's the perfect mix of comfy, cozy and chic that stands out from the crowd.
Wait, does that not sound like your winter coat? If your go-to coat for the chilly months isn't just as fabulous as you want to feel, then it's time to invest in one that makes you feel great. Key words to remember when shopping for a new coat are Cozy, Comfortable, Classic, Functional, and Fashionable (CCCFF.)
Wait, does that not sound like your winter coat? If your go-to coat for the chilly months isn't just as fabulous as you want to feel, then it's time to invest in one that makes you feel great. Key words to remember when shopping for a new coat are Cozy, Comfortable, Classic, Functional, and Fashionable (CCCFF.)
"I've had the same winter coat for 8 years. I see so many styles that I like, but I'm not sure if I can pull off the fancy trends. I'm so comfortable with my beige trench coat, and I know it goes with everything I own. But I know it's time for something else. How do I know which kind of new style to invest in?"
-Anonymous, 40
So many women are happy with their leather coat that hits right below the bottom with the lapels that scream 1996 (you know the coat I'm talking about.) If you feel like your coat is in need of an upgrade but you're not sure which direction to take, try filling out this short questionnaire. Scroll down to find out which style is for you:
Great! Now that you have your three questions answered, which number did you click the most? That number will tell you which coat choices are best for you.
Remember, these styles aren't set in stone. Maybe you will find a look that you like in another category!
Remember, these styles aren't set in stone. Maybe you will find a look that you like in another category!
mostly 1's - classic
1. | Topshop | Wallis | Madewell
Your style is simple and clean. Classic coats should be able to go with any outfit in your wardrobe. Update your coat by choosing one with intricate details, whether it's buttons, zippers, leather detailing, or a minimalistic print. If there are too many details, the coat will look busy. You know that you like a clean and chic look, so keep details minimal!
Your style is simple and clean. Classic coats should be able to go with any outfit in your wardrobe. Update your coat by choosing one with intricate details, whether it's buttons, zippers, leather detailing, or a minimalistic print. If there are too many details, the coat will look busy. You know that you like a clean and chic look, so keep details minimal!
mostly 2's - feminine
2. | Mango | H&M | Zara
Your style is feminine, and your coat should reflect that about you! Stick with a soft look by choosing a color in a light hue - think whites, pinks, beiges, and pastels. Darker colors can sometimes read androgynous, and blacks are probably too heavy for your girly wardrobe. If light colors aren't really your thing, go for a peacoat (a feminine, double-breasted cut) in a navy or deep purple.
Your style is feminine, and your coat should reflect that about you! Stick with a soft look by choosing a color in a light hue - think whites, pinks, beiges, and pastels. Darker colors can sometimes read androgynous, and blacks are probably too heavy for your girly wardrobe. If light colors aren't really your thing, go for a peacoat (a feminine, double-breasted cut) in a navy or deep purple.
mostly 3's - edgy
3. | Warehouse | Pink Queen | Miss Selfridge
You're a rockstar at heart. The only coat style to compliment your chucks and ripped jeans is a tough one. If your staple denim jacket is getting too chilly for December, try a leather or wool coat. Channel your inner-90s punk with an oversized style. Keep the rest of your outfit proportional with fitted jeans and tops, so you don't look like you're being swallowed. Not into boyfriend-inspired coats? Try a cropped coat with some fringe or zipper details. Keep it strong and edgy by choosing one with a strong shoulder.
You're a rockstar at heart. The only coat style to compliment your chucks and ripped jeans is a tough one. If your staple denim jacket is getting too chilly for December, try a leather or wool coat. Channel your inner-90s punk with an oversized style. Keep the rest of your outfit proportional with fitted jeans and tops, so you don't look like you're being swallowed. Not into boyfriend-inspired coats? Try a cropped coat with some fringe or zipper details. Keep it strong and edgy by choosing one with a strong shoulder.
mostly 4's - unique
4. | Topshop | Warehouse | Zara
There's an eclectic child in the house, and it's you. Your unique style stands out from a crowd, and your coat should reflect that as well. Play with prints, textures, and shapes to compliment your personality and style. A good idea when looking for a new coat is to choose one that looks good when worn open. You want to show off your creative ensembles as well, so this is important. Really go all out when investing in this season staple, because not everyone can wear rainbow fur. But you can.
mostly 5's - on the go
5. | Wallis | Mango | French Connection
You're a busy woman. Alarm goes off at 5:45, and you've run a marathon around your house before leaving at 7:30. Kids are at school by 8:00, and you've had your third cup of coffee by 10:00. You don't want to have to think about which coat goes with which outfit, so your new coat should be in a neutral color. The way to make this piece your own is to choose one with interesting details. You probably don't want sequins hanging all over or lots of zippers clanging when you're running around, so think about that before you go out and buy that cute biker jacket. Any of the three coats above are great examples of stylish, flattering cuts for any body shape. The best part? They're versatile for any wardrobe!
You're a busy woman. Alarm goes off at 5:45, and you've run a marathon around your house before leaving at 7:30. Kids are at school by 8:00, and you've had your third cup of coffee by 10:00. You don't want to have to think about which coat goes with which outfit, so your new coat should be in a neutral color. The way to make this piece your own is to choose one with interesting details. You probably don't want sequins hanging all over or lots of zippers clanging when you're running around, so think about that before you go out and buy that cute biker jacket. Any of the three coats above are great examples of stylish, flattering cuts for any body shape. The best part? They're versatile for any wardrobe!
mostly 6's - sporty
6. | Mango | Zara | Miss Selfridge
An average outfit for the sporty girl usually includes leggings and sneakers, so investing in a trench coat would probably look pretty silly. Choose a quilted, cropped coat to compliment the rest of your athletic aesthetic. How can sporty-looking coats look fashionable as well, you ask? Again, it's all in the details. Choose a jacket with an interesting collar, elastic details around the waist or wrists, one with a belt, or one in your favorite color. Just keep in mind that whichever coat you choose is going to be worn with tennis shoes.
What do you ladies think? Would you think of investing in any of these coats? Do you need shopping advice to find a coat that you don't see on this list? Reach out to me on my contact page for style advice, or tweet me @MollyInBlack.
Happy shopping! xo
An average outfit for the sporty girl usually includes leggings and sneakers, so investing in a trench coat would probably look pretty silly. Choose a quilted, cropped coat to compliment the rest of your athletic aesthetic. How can sporty-looking coats look fashionable as well, you ask? Again, it's all in the details. Choose a jacket with an interesting collar, elastic details around the waist or wrists, one with a belt, or one in your favorite color. Just keep in mind that whichever coat you choose is going to be worn with tennis shoes.
What do you ladies think? Would you think of investing in any of these coats? Do you need shopping advice to find a coat that you don't see on this list? Reach out to me on my contact page for style advice, or tweet me @MollyInBlack.
Happy shopping! xo