Winter 2010 clothing tips
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- Coat yourself in style: Finding the perfect mens coat.
- The Winter coat for your shape and style: A womens guide to finding
the perfect Winter coat. - Don't Sweat It: Winter sweaters for warmer climates
- All about layering
- Three keys when buying your raincoat
- Winter Shoe care tips
- Learn how to weatherize your raincoat...click here.
| Three keys when buying your raincoat by Ben Wolff |
Fit
THERE ARE TWO ways you can approach a raincoat. The first is as a protector of the clothing underneath like a suit jacket or blazer. If that's
the case then the raincoat needs to be at least one size bigger than the jacket you wear under it. This is to prevent crushing the shoulders of
the suit jacket or blazer. The second is that of a “Fashion” piece. More form than function. These types of raincoats tend to be more form
fitting, shorter in length as well as come in a greater verity of colors. You can still have the functionality of water proofing on some but not all
“Fashion” raincoats due to the type of fabric used.
ANOTHER THING TO think about is perhaps owning both and switch between them depending on the situation that's called for; A brunch
meeting at a trendy restaurant in Tribeca vs. a business meeting in the office with the boss. If this is the way you want to go my advice to you is
to spend to majority of your funds on the more traditional raincoat because that's the one you'll be wearing for a few seasons whereas trends
come and go.
BOTTOM LINE ON FIT:
Go at least one size bigger in the raincoat than your suit jacket or blazer in a more traditional raincoat and more form fitting on the
“Fashion” one.
Style
THIS HAS MORE to do with your own personal taste and not so much with what the magazines are saying as far as I'm concerned. Be true to
yourself when it comes to Style and only buy what looks and feels good on you and what you can see yourself wearing for a few seasons.
Repeat the last sentence because it's important. Trying to keep up with all the trends in Style are too difficult for most of us so I don't
recommend even trying.
BOTTOM LINE ON STYLE:
For the more traditional raincoat stick with neutral colors and tones and have fun with the more trendy pieces if you choose to go that way.
Cost
I'VE BEEN A Clothing Stylist for the Business Professional for quite some time and I've seen quality raincoats range in price from a hundred
dollars to well over a thousand, depending on the designer. The same can be said for the more trendy and/or “Fashion” pieces. The key to
making this process work is to set a budget for yourself. This is the same advice I give my clients and it is so important when shopping. No
matter what budget you set for yourself this will work and work every time. When I help my clients with 'Assisted Shopping' or go shopping on
my own I always ask the sales associate to show me the items within the price range I've set. This way I only see what is in the given budget
I've set and choose from there. By following this easy step it's very unlikely that you will overspend.
BOTTOM LINE ON COST:
Set a budget and stick to it. Have the sales associate pull things within that price range and only that price range and make your choice from
there.
THE BOTTOM LINE ON THE BOTTOM LINE:
Believe me if you follow these simple steps you will have a stress free shopping experience and walk away with an amazing raincoat...or two.
THERE ARE TWO ways you can approach a raincoat. The first is as a protector of the clothing underneath like a suit jacket or blazer. If that's
the case then the raincoat needs to be at least one size bigger than the jacket you wear under it. This is to prevent crushing the shoulders of
the suit jacket or blazer. The second is that of a “Fashion” piece. More form than function. These types of raincoats tend to be more form
fitting, shorter in length as well as come in a greater verity of colors. You can still have the functionality of water proofing on some but not all
“Fashion” raincoats due to the type of fabric used.
ANOTHER THING TO think about is perhaps owning both and switch between them depending on the situation that's called for; A brunch
meeting at a trendy restaurant in Tribeca vs. a business meeting in the office with the boss. If this is the way you want to go my advice to you is
to spend to majority of your funds on the more traditional raincoat because that's the one you'll be wearing for a few seasons whereas trends
come and go.
BOTTOM LINE ON FIT:
Go at least one size bigger in the raincoat than your suit jacket or blazer in a more traditional raincoat and more form fitting on the
“Fashion” one.
Style
THIS HAS MORE to do with your own personal taste and not so much with what the magazines are saying as far as I'm concerned. Be true to
yourself when it comes to Style and only buy what looks and feels good on you and what you can see yourself wearing for a few seasons.
Repeat the last sentence because it's important. Trying to keep up with all the trends in Style are too difficult for most of us so I don't
recommend even trying.
BOTTOM LINE ON STYLE:
For the more traditional raincoat stick with neutral colors and tones and have fun with the more trendy pieces if you choose to go that way.
Cost
I'VE BEEN A Clothing Stylist for the Business Professional for quite some time and I've seen quality raincoats range in price from a hundred
dollars to well over a thousand, depending on the designer. The same can be said for the more trendy and/or “Fashion” pieces. The key to
making this process work is to set a budget for yourself. This is the same advice I give my clients and it is so important when shopping. No
matter what budget you set for yourself this will work and work every time. When I help my clients with 'Assisted Shopping' or go shopping on
my own I always ask the sales associate to show me the items within the price range I've set. This way I only see what is in the given budget
I've set and choose from there. By following this easy step it's very unlikely that you will overspend.
BOTTOM LINE ON COST:
Set a budget and stick to it. Have the sales associate pull things within that price range and only that price range and make your choice from
there.
THE BOTTOM LINE ON THE BOTTOM LINE:
Believe me if you follow these simple steps you will have a stress free shopping experience and walk away with an amazing raincoat...or two.
FOR BOTH THE men and women that I work with Fall and Winter imposes a very difficult challenge when it comes to dressing in a
fashionable way and staying warm at the same time. The biggest questions I get this time of year is about 'Layering'.
LAYERING IS THE best way to have fun with what you wear and look fresh all the time. You don't always have to stay with thus usual dark
colors if you don't want to.
HERE ARE JUST A FEW TIPS:
I encourage you to read the first article on this page for more about buying your Fall/Winter coats.
Read about finding the best umbrella for you in my Fall '09 Newsletter. Sign up in the box on this page
As the season goes on I'll be adding to the list. Please feel free to email me if you have any ideas. I'd love to hear them.
fashionable way and staying warm at the same time. The biggest questions I get this time of year is about 'Layering'.
LAYERING IS THE best way to have fun with what you wear and look fresh all the time. You don't always have to stay with thus usual dark
colors if you don't want to.
HERE ARE JUST A FEW TIPS:
- THE FIRST THING you should keep in mind is that no matter how cold it is outside the place you work will be temperature controlled.
This is important to remember because it will allow you the freedom to wear what you want without regard to “How cold is it outside?”
- WHEN IT COMES to layering keep in mind that a few light layers will be easier to deal with then bulky ones. Cotton undershirts for men
and colored T's for women are great ways to stay warm without the added bulk and a lot easier to build a great look from.
- MOST PEOPLE LIKE to wear sweaters this time of year and rightly so but keep in mind that a sweater doesn't have to be big and bulky
to be warm. Look for cashmeres and wools and blends. My favorite is Merino Wool. You should consider pulling out your Spring
sweaters since they tend to work great with the layering effect. And a boost of Spring color in the dreary Winter months would feel great.
- YOU DON'T NEED to spend your money on heavier pieces of clothing like thick wool suits or heavy skirts just because it's cold
outside. Instead invest in a couple of amazing coats. Find the coats that are timeless and classic in style and are made with beautiful
fabrics like Cashmere, Angora, Mohair and blends. Your overcoats should last at least 3 to 4 seasons.
I encourage you to read the first article on this page for more about buying your Fall/Winter coats.
- ACCESSORIES ARE THE way to really stay current during the colder months. Scarves, hat's and umbrellas can be wonderful
inexpensive ways to add to your wardrobe without breaking the bank.
Read about finding the best umbrella for you in my Fall '09 Newsletter. Sign up in the box on this page
As the season goes on I'll be adding to the list. Please feel free to email me if you have any ideas. I'd love to hear them.
| Layering is key. by Ben Wolff |
WHAT IS WEATHERPROOFING? When we say waterproof/weatherproof it is not keeping you feet dry necessarily, but
protecting your leather shoes and boots against the wet-dry-wet-dry cycle. Some of the oilier products do seem to make your feet drier because
it blocks the pores of the leather for a period of time. Some kinds of construction seems to keep your feet dry longer. Rubber boots will also
protect your shoes, and there are insoles that we sell that help keep your feet warm also. Installing a rubber sole that some people call a sole-
guard helps against slipping and keeps thin leather soles drier, thus keeping your feet warmer. Try not to buy vinyl soles because they can be
very slippery.
WHEN YOUR SHOES are weather proofed, they don't dry out hard and dry. When you notice that your shoes are staying wet longer, that could
be the signal that you need to weatherproof you shoes again. In harsh conditions, you will have to apply the products more often, maybe as
often as once a week in the worst part of the winter.
WHEN YOU HAVE the kind of leather shoes that you wear for dress, or casual, you can apply liquid silicone, or spray silicone on the surface of
your shoes, and welt area to keep your shoes from getting too water logged. If they are a light color, stay away from silicone products, and oil
products, because they may darken your shoes. Food for thought, it has been told by many army men that a well polished shoe works to keep
your feet dry, so take that to heart, and keep your footwear around for a long time.
IF YOU HAVE work boots and shoes, you can use many brands of oil and paste, to weather proof them. Oils may darken but the sprays may
also if it is a silicone base. The oil does have a tendency to also block the pores of the leather, and that alone can make the shoes warmer.
THE ALL-PROTECTOR styles can be used on all kinds of leather, fabric, or suede. They are usually in a spray can.
SUEDE SHOES REQUIRE a suede formula of a water repellent We also carry a suede shampoo and suede renew colors to freshen up the
look of your suede shoes. Suede leather is a higher maintenance kind of leather. We advise you to always clean them every time you come in
from out side Always have a suede brush or suede stone/eraser handy to clean off foreign particles immediately as soon as you get home If
they are wet, let them dry, and then brush them and if they were really wet, it might not hurt to re-spray them with the suede protector before you
wear them again.
CEDAR SHOE TREES in your shoes and boots allow your wet shoes to dry naturally, and keep their shape. When your shoes dry without shoe
trees, the wrinkles will become permanent, and destroy the look and life of the your footwear.
WE HAVE FLEECE insoles to make your shoes warmer. Weather proofing oils that you put on your footwear can help keep your feet warmer.
RUBBER BOOTS WILL also help protect your footwear. Consistent use of rubber boots also improve the life of your shoes. Rubber overshoes
are also effective in controlling slipping.
WE ALSO HAVE chains that you can put on your shoes or boots to help guard against slipping or falling. We don’t suggest shoe chains or ice
grippers for people who already have trouble with picking up their feet, as the chains or ice grippers may grab too much and cause you to trip
and fall.
INSTALLING NON SLIP soles (also know as sole-guards) on both leather or vinyl soles can be effective to enable you to walk better without
slipping. ..We also have the sure foot anti slip guards that you can stick on leather or rubber soles. (They don't stick well on plastic or vinyl
soles) If you have Vinyl or plastic soles, you should have us install anti slip soles that requires the use of vinyl glue that is available at most
shoe repair shops..
HARTLAND SHOE REPAIR CO
591 N. Hamline Ave St. Paul Minnesota 55104U
protecting your leather shoes and boots against the wet-dry-wet-dry cycle. Some of the oilier products do seem to make your feet drier because
it blocks the pores of the leather for a period of time. Some kinds of construction seems to keep your feet dry longer. Rubber boots will also
protect your shoes, and there are insoles that we sell that help keep your feet warm also. Installing a rubber sole that some people call a sole-
guard helps against slipping and keeps thin leather soles drier, thus keeping your feet warmer. Try not to buy vinyl soles because they can be
very slippery.
WHEN YOUR SHOES are weather proofed, they don't dry out hard and dry. When you notice that your shoes are staying wet longer, that could
be the signal that you need to weatherproof you shoes again. In harsh conditions, you will have to apply the products more often, maybe as
often as once a week in the worst part of the winter.
WHEN YOU HAVE the kind of leather shoes that you wear for dress, or casual, you can apply liquid silicone, or spray silicone on the surface of
your shoes, and welt area to keep your shoes from getting too water logged. If they are a light color, stay away from silicone products, and oil
products, because they may darken your shoes. Food for thought, it has been told by many army men that a well polished shoe works to keep
your feet dry, so take that to heart, and keep your footwear around for a long time.
IF YOU HAVE work boots and shoes, you can use many brands of oil and paste, to weather proof them. Oils may darken but the sprays may
also if it is a silicone base. The oil does have a tendency to also block the pores of the leather, and that alone can make the shoes warmer.
THE ALL-PROTECTOR styles can be used on all kinds of leather, fabric, or suede. They are usually in a spray can.
SUEDE SHOES REQUIRE a suede formula of a water repellent We also carry a suede shampoo and suede renew colors to freshen up the
look of your suede shoes. Suede leather is a higher maintenance kind of leather. We advise you to always clean them every time you come in
from out side Always have a suede brush or suede stone/eraser handy to clean off foreign particles immediately as soon as you get home If
they are wet, let them dry, and then brush them and if they were really wet, it might not hurt to re-spray them with the suede protector before you
wear them again.
CEDAR SHOE TREES in your shoes and boots allow your wet shoes to dry naturally, and keep their shape. When your shoes dry without shoe
trees, the wrinkles will become permanent, and destroy the look and life of the your footwear.
WE HAVE FLEECE insoles to make your shoes warmer. Weather proofing oils that you put on your footwear can help keep your feet warmer.
RUBBER BOOTS WILL also help protect your footwear. Consistent use of rubber boots also improve the life of your shoes. Rubber overshoes
are also effective in controlling slipping.
WE ALSO HAVE chains that you can put on your shoes or boots to help guard against slipping or falling. We don’t suggest shoe chains or ice
grippers for people who already have trouble with picking up their feet, as the chains or ice grippers may grab too much and cause you to trip
and fall.
INSTALLING NON SLIP soles (also know as sole-guards) on both leather or vinyl soles can be effective to enable you to walk better without
slipping. ..We also have the sure foot anti slip guards that you can stick on leather or rubber soles. (They don't stick well on plastic or vinyl
soles) If you have Vinyl or plastic soles, you should have us install anti slip soles that requires the use of vinyl glue that is available at most
shoe repair shops..
HARTLAND SHOE REPAIR CO
591 N. Hamline Ave St. Paul Minnesota 55104U
| A plan to winterize your footwear and keep your feet warm and dry. |
AS THE COLD WINDS drift from the north one finds the warmth of a new winter coat a welcome retreat. There are many coat
options to help you brace yourself against the elements, but please avoid wearing your ski parka to the office or out on the town. You’ll be better
served by a traditional coat that ends midway between your thigh and knee. If you knew how to pick a winter coat, you’d know the difference
between a jacket and a coat: a jacket rests at your hips and does little to keep you truly warm and can’t be worn over a thick sweater or blazer,
and a coat is made of a thicker, natural fabric and is a must to keep you warm.
So, to keep you toasty when the temperatures turn frigid, follow our tips on how to pick a winter coat.
Fabric
The first thing in knowing how to pick a winter coat is understanding fabric. The best fabrics to keep you warm are wool and cashmere.
Cashmere is far warmer, but the high cost and short durability of the fabric often make it moot against the strength of wool in snowy conditions.
If you need a really warm coat, opt for one that also has a thin layer of Thinsulate or goose down sewn into the typical lining. This will give you an
extra layer, but in most cases a wool or cashmere coat needs only the acetate lining for a comfortable fit over your clothes; the outer fabric itself
does all the work.
Fit
Choosing the right fit is essential in knowing how to pick a winter coat. To find the right fit, simply go up one size over your typical suit jacket size;
this allows you to move easily without the layers binding at your shoulders and neck. The shoulder seams themselves should fall just over the
edge of your natural shoulder. This will give you a better profile line while wearing a sport coat or suit. And it is acceptable to forego a traditional
topcoat and wear a coat over a suit for daily wear, but after 6 p.m. is another story. When in doubt, go shopping while wearing a blazer or thick
sweater. Not all coats follow the same measurement dimensions, so this will give you a better idea of fit and comfort. But don’t just slip the coat
on: find a chair and sit down while wearing the coat; raise your arms; bend down and tie your shoe. You’ll be sporting this new coat in a variety
of situations and you need to give it a real test drive before buying it.
Style
The most fashionable options come in a variety of styles and prices.
Cashmere Elements Chevron Jacket
A modern take on a military-inspired design, the charcoal and gray colors allow you to pair this coat with either black, brown or navy clothing.
Under a suit it takes on a formal appearance, but can be easily worn with jeans or corduroy trousers for weekend jaunts.
There's more to knowing how to pick a winter coat.
Andrew Marc Marcus Coat
This is true casual elegance for winter with a pea-coat cut and longer drape than usual. If you work in a semi-casual office or just like to be a
little more structured in your weekend wear, this is your new coat.
J. Crew Officer’s Topcoat
This double-breasted number hits nearly at the knee and lets you stay warm on those long commutes across town. The collar has a wide cut
that when turned up protects you against the wind without making you look like you’re cold The back belt and button accents give you a trim
silhouette and allow the coat to drape off your waist, preventing a box-like look.
Endovanera Most Jacket
Perhaps the most daring winter coast of them all is not for the traditional man-about-town. The unusual yet refreshing style of placing the button
closure on a wide downward angle breathes new life into the design of winter coats. The collar and shoulder line are masculine and militaristic,
but the cut and the included hood are modern and functional in ways few coats dare to be. The additional buttons on each sleeve cuff that reach
nearly to the elbow evoke the frock coats of the French Revolution
COAT YOURSELF IN STYLE
Whichever coat you choose, remember to care for it once the winter season has passed. Have it dry-cleaned and wrap it in a suit hanger until
next year. This way you’ll preserve your investment, but you’ll also have a garment that is ready to wear on that first chilly day when everyone else
is scrambling to find something warm
options to help you brace yourself against the elements, but please avoid wearing your ski parka to the office or out on the town. You’ll be better
served by a traditional coat that ends midway between your thigh and knee. If you knew how to pick a winter coat, you’d know the difference
between a jacket and a coat: a jacket rests at your hips and does little to keep you truly warm and can’t be worn over a thick sweater or blazer,
and a coat is made of a thicker, natural fabric and is a must to keep you warm.
So, to keep you toasty when the temperatures turn frigid, follow our tips on how to pick a winter coat.
Fabric
The first thing in knowing how to pick a winter coat is understanding fabric. The best fabrics to keep you warm are wool and cashmere.
Cashmere is far warmer, but the high cost and short durability of the fabric often make it moot against the strength of wool in snowy conditions.
If you need a really warm coat, opt for one that also has a thin layer of Thinsulate or goose down sewn into the typical lining. This will give you an
extra layer, but in most cases a wool or cashmere coat needs only the acetate lining for a comfortable fit over your clothes; the outer fabric itself
does all the work.
Fit
Choosing the right fit is essential in knowing how to pick a winter coat. To find the right fit, simply go up one size over your typical suit jacket size;
this allows you to move easily without the layers binding at your shoulders and neck. The shoulder seams themselves should fall just over the
edge of your natural shoulder. This will give you a better profile line while wearing a sport coat or suit. And it is acceptable to forego a traditional
topcoat and wear a coat over a suit for daily wear, but after 6 p.m. is another story. When in doubt, go shopping while wearing a blazer or thick
sweater. Not all coats follow the same measurement dimensions, so this will give you a better idea of fit and comfort. But don’t just slip the coat
on: find a chair and sit down while wearing the coat; raise your arms; bend down and tie your shoe. You’ll be sporting this new coat in a variety
of situations and you need to give it a real test drive before buying it.
Style
The most fashionable options come in a variety of styles and prices.
Cashmere Elements Chevron Jacket
A modern take on a military-inspired design, the charcoal and gray colors allow you to pair this coat with either black, brown or navy clothing.
Under a suit it takes on a formal appearance, but can be easily worn with jeans or corduroy trousers for weekend jaunts.
There's more to knowing how to pick a winter coat.
Andrew Marc Marcus Coat
This is true casual elegance for winter with a pea-coat cut and longer drape than usual. If you work in a semi-casual office or just like to be a
little more structured in your weekend wear, this is your new coat.
J. Crew Officer’s Topcoat
This double-breasted number hits nearly at the knee and lets you stay warm on those long commutes across town. The collar has a wide cut
that when turned up protects you against the wind without making you look like you’re cold The back belt and button accents give you a trim
silhouette and allow the coat to drape off your waist, preventing a box-like look.
Endovanera Most Jacket
Perhaps the most daring winter coast of them all is not for the traditional man-about-town. The unusual yet refreshing style of placing the button
closure on a wide downward angle breathes new life into the design of winter coats. The collar and shoulder line are masculine and militaristic,
but the cut and the included hood are modern and functional in ways few coats dare to be. The additional buttons on each sleeve cuff that reach
nearly to the elbow evoke the frock coats of the French Revolution
COAT YOURSELF IN STYLE
Whichever coat you choose, remember to care for it once the winter season has passed. Have it dry-cleaned and wrap it in a suit hanger until
next year. This way you’ll preserve your investment, but you’ll also have a garment that is ready to wear on that first chilly day when everyone else
is scrambling to find something warm
| Coat yourself in style: Finding the perfect Mens coat. Article courtesy of AskMen.com |
WE'RE CERTAINLY ENTERING the depths of winter now and if you haven’t bought a coat yet the January sales are the perfect
place to get that bargain coat. I always find winter coat shopping a bit of a challenge, after all it is the one piece of your wardrobe that gets the
most wear during the long winter months, and it not only needs to look good but also keep out the cold and the rain. Basically we want
something that is both flattering and shock horror... practical! Practical and fashionable are not words that usually feature in the same sentence,
but when shopping for the perfect coat should definitely be considered.
You should love the coat that you purchase; it is a reflection of you and your personal style, and when you put it on it should make you feel
confident and comfortable. Consider length, shape, colour, fit and fabric composition to ensure you make the perfect choice when shopping.
Choosing the right length of coat is vital. If you are less than 5ft 4’’ then a knee length or shorter coat will be much more flattering, whilst taller
woman can carry off both the longer and shorter styles. Next consider what you do when wearing your coat? If you are a commuter and
frequently on and off public transport and up and down the escalators of the London Underground system, an ankle skimming full length coat is
not necessarily the best length for you as it will soon become dirty and tatty at the bottom. Think about what you are going to wear with and
under your coat. For example, do you easily feel the cold? Are you likely to wear lots of layers underneath? If so try a slightly larger size than
usual, there is nothing worse than a skin tight, restrictive coat with sausage looking sleeves and seams fit to burst. Do you often wear skirts?
Remember to check that the coat will not fall lower than 5cm of the skirt hem.
Next consider shape. Think about your body shape and the shape of the coat. A- Lines are good for pears, whilst single breasted belted or
waist detailed coats work well for hourglass figures. Apples should go for straight knee length single breasted coats with pocket detailing at the
hips and an open neckline. The classic double breasted trench style is perfect for column shapes, with detailing such as epaulettes, shoulder
flaps, belts, buckles and buttons creating volume and emphasising the waist, creating curves. Finally check you can button the coat up to the
neck and down to the knee for those blustery winter mornings.
As well as length and shape, colour and pattern is also very important and are a chance to reflect your personality. Column shapes can create
volume and shape with bright coloured and patterned coats, whilst apples should favour plainer colours in rich tones such as purple, navy and
chocolate for a softer outline. Flat colours can make your silhouette appear wider. Apple and pear shaped figures can usually handle both
colour and all over pattern, but it is usually best to do for a darker or deeper colour for sleek finish
Finally check the fabric composition. A winter coat is an investment and could last for a few seasons if you choose one with high natural fibre
content, it will not only be warmer but is less likely to look threadbare around the cuffs and collar at the end of the season. Cashmere and pure
new wool combined with a small amount of polyamide (nylon) can however increase the longevity of the coat. An alternative to the traditional
cashmere and wool blends are the leather or shearling coats; these are hot trend pieces this season, and if you choose your style wisely
should see you through many more winters to come.
Once you found you perfect coat, look after it. Dry clean it once a season and try to keep it on a wooden hanger rather than a hook on the back of
your door. With the right care and attention it could last for years.
place to get that bargain coat. I always find winter coat shopping a bit of a challenge, after all it is the one piece of your wardrobe that gets the
most wear during the long winter months, and it not only needs to look good but also keep out the cold and the rain. Basically we want
something that is both flattering and shock horror... practical! Practical and fashionable are not words that usually feature in the same sentence,
but when shopping for the perfect coat should definitely be considered.
You should love the coat that you purchase; it is a reflection of you and your personal style, and when you put it on it should make you feel
confident and comfortable. Consider length, shape, colour, fit and fabric composition to ensure you make the perfect choice when shopping.
Choosing the right length of coat is vital. If you are less than 5ft 4’’ then a knee length or shorter coat will be much more flattering, whilst taller
woman can carry off both the longer and shorter styles. Next consider what you do when wearing your coat? If you are a commuter and
frequently on and off public transport and up and down the escalators of the London Underground system, an ankle skimming full length coat is
not necessarily the best length for you as it will soon become dirty and tatty at the bottom. Think about what you are going to wear with and
under your coat. For example, do you easily feel the cold? Are you likely to wear lots of layers underneath? If so try a slightly larger size than
usual, there is nothing worse than a skin tight, restrictive coat with sausage looking sleeves and seams fit to burst. Do you often wear skirts?
Remember to check that the coat will not fall lower than 5cm of the skirt hem.
Next consider shape. Think about your body shape and the shape of the coat. A- Lines are good for pears, whilst single breasted belted or
waist detailed coats work well for hourglass figures. Apples should go for straight knee length single breasted coats with pocket detailing at the
hips and an open neckline. The classic double breasted trench style is perfect for column shapes, with detailing such as epaulettes, shoulder
flaps, belts, buckles and buttons creating volume and emphasising the waist, creating curves. Finally check you can button the coat up to the
neck and down to the knee for those blustery winter mornings.
As well as length and shape, colour and pattern is also very important and are a chance to reflect your personality. Column shapes can create
volume and shape with bright coloured and patterned coats, whilst apples should favour plainer colours in rich tones such as purple, navy and
chocolate for a softer outline. Flat colours can make your silhouette appear wider. Apple and pear shaped figures can usually handle both
colour and all over pattern, but it is usually best to do for a darker or deeper colour for sleek finish
Finally check the fabric composition. A winter coat is an investment and could last for a few seasons if you choose one with high natural fibre
content, it will not only be warmer but is less likely to look threadbare around the cuffs and collar at the end of the season. Cashmere and pure
new wool combined with a small amount of polyamide (nylon) can however increase the longevity of the coat. An alternative to the traditional
cashmere and wool blends are the leather or shearling coats; these are hot trend pieces this season, and if you choose your style wisely
should see you through many more winters to come.
Once you found you perfect coat, look after it. Dry clean it once a season and try to keep it on a wooden hanger rather than a hook on the back of
your door. With the right care and attention it could last for years.
| The winter coat for your shape and style: A womens guide to the perfect Winter coat |
WHETHER YOU LIVE in LA or Chicago, chances are you will be wearing a sweater or two this winter -- but you may be wearing
them in new and different ways. Sweaters run the gamut this season, from sleeveless to dolman sleeves to ruffles and fringe. This winter, it’s all
about detail, whether you really need to stay warm or not.
GREAT FOR LAYERING
"Knits are amazing layering pieces to add to most anything in your wardrobe from denim to skirts and dresses," says Sonya Consentini, T.J.
Maxx and Marshalls style expert. Try a long, sleeveless style that features feminine touches such as ruffles or fringe. Another option is to pair
with a long-sleeved tee and jeans for a casual look.
Sonya says a cowl neck sweater (like this one from Esprit) in a jewel tone with a pencil skirt or pair of classic black trousers is a great office
style. Cardigans have gotten longer this season and feature fun buttons, belting and a variety of colors. Pair the piece with detailed leggings and
ballet flats.
IN WINTER AND SPRING...
The best season to include a light- or medium-weight sweater is during the transition from winter to spring and throughout the spring season. "I
think one of the most classic and debonair looks is a bold sweater used as an accessory -- casually tossed over the shoulder and upper back,
and tied in the front," offers celebrity stylist Okera Banks.
A WARM-WEATHER FRIEND
The winter-inspired knit sweater is ideal for warmer climates. This cozy knit is warm but light enough for warmer days and versatile for multiple
wears with a matching tank. To get more wear, look for special pieces that work for multiple looks, like a kimono that works from day to evening.
You gain four benefits when getting more wear out of your sweater in warmer climates: A great look; the option of a wardrobe change during your
day; readiness for whatever the weather decides to toss your way; and most importantly, more value for your sweater dollar.
them in new and different ways. Sweaters run the gamut this season, from sleeveless to dolman sleeves to ruffles and fringe. This winter, it’s all
about detail, whether you really need to stay warm or not.
GREAT FOR LAYERING
"Knits are amazing layering pieces to add to most anything in your wardrobe from denim to skirts and dresses," says Sonya Consentini, T.J.
Maxx and Marshalls style expert. Try a long, sleeveless style that features feminine touches such as ruffles or fringe. Another option is to pair
with a long-sleeved tee and jeans for a casual look.
Sonya says a cowl neck sweater (like this one from Esprit) in a jewel tone with a pencil skirt or pair of classic black trousers is a great office
style. Cardigans have gotten longer this season and feature fun buttons, belting and a variety of colors. Pair the piece with detailed leggings and
ballet flats.
IN WINTER AND SPRING...
The best season to include a light- or medium-weight sweater is during the transition from winter to spring and throughout the spring season. "I
think one of the most classic and debonair looks is a bold sweater used as an accessory -- casually tossed over the shoulder and upper back,
and tied in the front," offers celebrity stylist Okera Banks.
A WARM-WEATHER FRIEND
The winter-inspired knit sweater is ideal for warmer climates. This cozy knit is warm but light enough for warmer days and versatile for multiple
wears with a matching tank. To get more wear, look for special pieces that work for multiple looks, like a kimono that works from day to evening.
You gain four benefits when getting more wear out of your sweater in warmer climates: A great look; the option of a wardrobe change during your
day; readiness for whatever the weather decides to toss your way; and most importantly, more value for your sweater dollar.
| Don't sweat it: Winter sweaters for warmer climates by Aly Walansky courtesy of Sheknows.com |