Buying a coat is often a complex decision as the garment needs to meet various needs. Find out below as we present key factors to consider when buying a new coat. We will also unpack different types of coats and their respective strengths.
Define your specific coat needs
It is crucial to clearly define your coat needs. They include answering the following questions:
- Should the coat have a hood?
- Does it need to be waterproof?
- How big pockets do you need?
- Where will you primarily wear it?
Do you really need a new coat?
Do you even need a new coat? Think out of the box and find out whether you can upgrade an existing coat with new accessories that will give you a new look.
Coat should fit your existing wardrobe
The coat should fit your existing clothes that you will be wearing underneath. Your existing wardrobe will affect the following:
- The coat’s length
- The size of the coat
The coat should match your body shape
Finding a coat that matches your body shape is a key factor when considering buying a new coat. The new garment should ideally enhance your body shape.
Different types of coats
There is a diverse range of coats. It is important to carefully consider various styles before buying a coat. In addition to design, it is also crucial to look into the fabrics of different garments. In this section, we take a closer look at different types of coats.
Bubble coat
A bubble coat or puffer coat is widely considered a reliable option for winter garments. An insulated bubble coat usually offers an optimal combination of lightweight and warmth. In addition, this type of coat comes in different styles for various fashion preferences.
An overcoat is a long and warm coat that is designed to insulate the person against the winter cold.
Overcoat
A tends to be lighter than a conventional overcoat. In addition, this type of garment often ends a bit above the knee. In short, a topcoat can be seen as a lighter overcoat, which can be a good option for milder winters where insulation is less crucial. There exist various topcoat variants:
- Greatcoat – a warm woolen coat that is designed for cold winters
- Chesterfield coat – warm and more formal coat with an elegant velvet collar
- Topcoat– a lighter overcoat that usually ends above the knee – suitable for milder climates
Chore coat
A chore coat is as the name suggests designed for various chores and physical work. It is a modern coat with a design emphasis on durability and comfort. Chore coats are usually loose-fitting and designed with many pockets that are useful in a work context. In addition, this type of coat can also be used as a casual outfit.
Assess price and durability
Some coats are undeniably pricy. However, before dismissing a coat as too expensive, carefully consider how long a quality coat will last, compared to a cheaper lower-quality garment. Choosing a durable coat could be a good long-term investment.
Assess the quality
Coats with a higher wool content tend to be of higher quality. Carefully reading the labels is therefore a key factor when buying a coat. Higher wool also means a warmer coat.
Prioritize classic colors and fabrics
Choosing a coat with classic colors and fabrics means that you can combine it with various garments. Furthermore, by sticking to classic colors, you avoid getting stuck in short-term fashion trends.
Don’t rule out buying secondhand
While many people usually buy new coats, you should not rule out acquiring a secondhand garment. It is possible to find a secondhand coat of high quality and reasonable price that has hardly been used.
Conclusion
Key factors to consider when buying a coat include durability, quality, style, and fabrics. Popular coat styles include bubble coats, various overcoats, and chore coats. It is a bigger choice than you may realize, so it’s best to pick the right coat straight from the beginning.
