The cherry on top. The final layer. The last straw. Okay that last one doesn’t really fit, but good things come in three. Let’s get to the point: BABY it’s cold outside, and your momma is telling you to cover up! Coats are a necessity, so you might as well look hot as well as feel hot. Finding the perfect coat to keep you warm AND go well with your style can be sort of a hassle, especially when stores are bombarding you with hot options, so we at EIU thought we’d help you out a bit and offer you our top 5 of stylish outerwear for A/W 2010!
THE PARKA
Seen here rocked by riennahera, the parka is your number once choice when you want to think practical AND stylish. Most of these coats can be washed in the washing machine, if they get crinkly or slightly stained it just adds to the “I don’t care, I’m RUGGED” vibe, they are usually both warm and water proof AND they usually have a hood to pop on when you forgot your umbrella. I’m one of those wimps who choose not to bring an umbrella if the forecast says “chance of rain” because I want my handbag as light as possible, so a hood is a very very nice option. Not sure what to pair this one with? Try frilly floral dresses or light lace. After all, nothing is as sexy as a good juxtaposition.
Here are some links to awesome parkas:
asos, zara, Forever 21 and new look, but be sure to check out your local shops and don’t forget the menswear section! Parkas look gorgeous oversized.
THE FURRY
MSignature knows what’s chic, and she convinces us all with her snazzy little faux fur leopard. Faux fur coats have an instantly luxurious appeal, and they really feel the best on cold winter days when you have to get up in the dark and and commute to work/class in the dark and cold. Just lean back, pull up your shoulders and feel that soft faux fur on your neck and cheeks. It’ll feel as if you brought your own fave teddybear, albeit a much more stylish version, but it still has the same comforting effect!
A small tip: if you want to get as much wear as possible out of your coat, don’t choose a leopard coat, unless you really love ecclectic ensembles. The print really looks best with a simple backdrop, so if you don’t want to limit your options based on your coat, go for a toned down faux fur like this one by ASOS, or splurge on this lambskin beauty by Zara. If you are a fan of statement coats, there are a lot of luxe leopard options. On the cheaper end, you have Forever 21 and this New Look one is my fave. Be sure to order at least one size up, or make it two if you plan on wearing a lot of sweaters underneath, because I tried this one on and the sleeves are quite snug. The faux fur is very supple and not as stiff as most faux fur options, so it fits very nicely (not michelin man at all).
THE CAPE
silvianavarro is our favorite caped crusader. Capes are cool because they are very different from most available options, and they instantly make you look very chic. These are a very warm option because you keep your own body heat as centered as possible, especially when you pull in your arms through the armholes. What looks good with these? Counter the vintage look of the cape with some perfectly fitting jeans and a pair of awesome equestrian boots! Here are some highstreet offers: ASOS, Zara and New Look
THE BOYFRIEND BLAZER
Proportions are the most important thing here. Aphrodite shows us how it’s done! These coats should be BIG, so if possible buy at least a size up. It looks so cute if the sleeves are a tiny bit too long! What to pair it with? This is the coat to wear with this season’s hot longer length skirts and dresses. These coats will easily blend into your style, but they are usually quite expensive, especially if you want an extra nice one. Buying a “normal” pea coat a size or two up is the best solution to find a cheap alternative for the boyfriend blazer coat. Here are some options: ASOS, French Connection, Zara, and New Look.
THE LADYLIKE COAT
Timeless, classy, stylish: this is the coat your mom would tell you to buy. This one goes with practically everything, and is a great fall back option when you just want to look good but not make too much of an effort. Fashionchalet’s red coat is just perfect in every way. Want to jazz these coats up to make it more “you”? Take out the belt that came with it and wear one of your own layered over the coat! Studded, printed, bow belts: anything goes.
Online: ASOS, Zara, New Look and Forever 21.
TOP TIP
ASOS is offering 20% off everything of their own ASOS collection AND free delivery worldwide, just enter “ASOS20” at checkout!
What coat will you be buying?
THE STYLING DUTCHMAN
