Let’s face it, winter is only a few weeks away and once again it’s time to go in those closets and pull out your winter jacket/coats.
Since we live in the “Sunshine State” you maybe thinking this is unnecessary but even for the few very cold days we are fortunate enough to have, you always need a coat and since you need one you may as well be stylishly prepared.
Now for some of you out there, a coat is just a coat; you throw one on to keep you warm without giving it much thought and you’re out the door. But for those that try to keep their style fresh and current here are a few ideas to help you make that winter coat selection and possibly inspire those that view a coat as just a “Coat” to change their minds and view them also as a fashion statement.
The first thing you want to do before heading off for a new coat is to determine exactly what type of coat you need. If you will be traveling for business or pleasure in colder climates, you want to choose a coat that will give you the most bang for your buck, by choosing the right length, the right fabric and the right style that best suits your needs.
You also need to wear a long sleeved shirt or turtleneck, so when you try on the coat you will know what to expect when you get dressed. The last thing you want your coat to be is ill-fitting over your clothes. So, please dress in long sleeves when shopping for coats.
The buttons on your coat should never pull or show any signs of stress, as this is an indication the coat is too tight. You should go up a size to ensure that the coat lays properly over the bulkier winter clothes and scarves.
If you have your eyes set on a leather coat the rules differ a little. Pay attention to the style of the coat. If it’s a slim fit or slim cut, it will lay closer to the body. So you most definitely want to have on whatever you plan on wearing, when trying a coat on to see how it looks and feels.
Just as a rule of thumb, always try on everything you buy, not only to eliminate returning, but just so you will see how the fabric feels against your skin. Then you can determine if you really like the garment enough to purchase it. So, always allow yourself time to try things on.
Let’s say you already have a coat you like, but it’s not red and you really don’t care to purchase another one, there are still things you can do to make your existing coat look new again.
Start by having it dry cleaned and this will give it an instant lift. Secondly, check the buttons to make sure they are intact and if not, have them altered and even replaced if you’d like. This will automatically give it a boost and only cost a few dollars.
Lastly, you can always add a red scarf to your existing coat. Choose one in a gorgeous shade of red or in a lovely winter red-plaid. This will keep your look together all winter long, as well as keep you on trend.
Never feel the need to go out and spend tons of cash just to follow a trend. There are always things you can do to keep fashionably current by simply making minor adjustments. As I have mentioned before, if you already have a coat that’s not red, that’s okay. Simply add a red scarf. It’s all about modification; use what you have.
So this winter, warm up that coat with a little red. Stay toasty and by all means keep it stylish.
