Feature
Cover Up
Samantha Cabrera
I’m from the south. It’s hot, it’s sticky, and you need to wear a coat for maybe two weeks in January, and even then, you can probably get away with a hoodie and a few layers. Of course if you have OCD when it comes to fashion like I do, you understand the reasons I have a ton of coats. From vintage to new, I own nearly a dozen coats, all suitable for some event or another. From brocade toppers that I can grab for dinner parties to hardcore (very unfashionable) parkas that can keep me warm in the dead of Canadian winter, my hall closet is over run with coats. Coats are imperative in our wardrobes, as they allow us to throw on whatever underneath and pull it all together in seconds. Here, we take a look at the best new picks for coats this season. Because there’s always room for a few more…
Winter White
Gone are the days of obeying the petty rule, “No white after Labor Day.” Each fall, designers churn out glorious shades of ivory, vanilla, and stark white. Nothing is more luxurious than a winter white coat. Evoking visions of ice skating on a snowy day, winter white coats are brilliant over a slim, all-black ensemble, or over rustic fall shades. Channel your inner equestrian by opting for a vanilla version over chocolate. For shape, look to the classic princess coat, with nipped seams and a dramatic collar. This allows the coat to go from day to night. Keep your options open. White coats are gorgeous over cocktail dresses during cooler weather, and also transfer over knits and trousers. Our favorite look for the winter white coat is belting it. Belts are still going full force, so go over the top by cinching your favorite white coat. Stacked belts, or wide belts with multiple buckles took the runways by storm and are surprisingly easy to wear in real life. Keep the center the focal point of your look, and build around it.
Go Bold
Cobalt, royal purple and chili are all favorites of the fall season. Luckily, the colors aren’t turning up only in handbags and shoes, but coats as well. Pick a favorite, and go with it. Beginning a seasonal wardrobe with a coat is a great start, and allows you to build a color story without wearing yourself thin. Starting with the coat, add neutrals as far as clothing, and variations of said color as far as accessories. When choosing extras, also look for complimentary colors, such as cobalt and yellow, or grape and teal. Let the coat speak for itself by pairing it with dark colors for contrast. Since color packs a punch, keep the silhouette traditional.
The Cape Comeback
Last winter we saw the arrival of the cape and welcomed it with open arms. Incredibly chic, not to mention functional, the cape is a refreshing alternative to your standard coat. Oversized buttons, tartan prints, and texture all keep the look alive this year. Always stay slim on bottom when wearing a cape. Not doing so could result in a major disaster. Proportion is king; remember to do it justice by following the simple rule of thumb. Jeans tucked into boots, slim slacks, and leggings are all great options when wearing the larger shape on top. Give yourself height with a stacked heel boot or cone heels, allowing your figure to “take shape” even when hidden underneath a cape. Favorite details for capes this season include brass/gold hardware and animal print.
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