Style

Image Matters

A WINTER COAT

Tips for men and women

Here are some of my tips:

1.    When do you need to wear it? If it’s for your daily trip into work, think first about how you get there. If you drive, and you are able to park in the immediate vicinity of your workplace, a long coat may be cumbersome.  It would be more practical to buy something shorter which is easier to drive in.  If you commute by tube, it can get very hot in the rush hour, so the same rules might apply.  If you walk or stand on a freezing railway station every day, then a longer coat may be your answer.  Knee length coats are the trend this year but don’t let this dictate what you buy.

2.    A coat doesn’t have to be classic in style to stand the test of time.  Only buy a coat that speaks to you so you love to wear it. Something you put on everyday needs to keep its wardrobe appeal so don’t buy unless you truly love it.

3.    Think about fit and your body shape. It’s easier if you’re a man, because most coats will be straight up and down in design, but if you’re female you are likely to have some curves which may govern to some extent what you can and can’t wear.  Double breasted styles are in – duffle coats are in the shops right now– and I wore one at primary school. At that age I had no curves, which is why I looked good in it. If you have a large bust, any double breasted style will add pounds.  If you have a waist, which not show it off?  Straighter styles will add visual weight and you’ll be hiding your greatest asset.

If you want a more masculine style, or you are male, then think about a Crombie which is also back on the racks.

4.    The duffle coat I wore, when I was about 6 years old, has always stayed in my memory because of its gorgeous colour. It was a fantastic cherry red. I can’t believe that any of my more recent coats will remain in my memory banks for the next 47 years even though I have truly loved many of them (note: not ALL, so there is a lesson in this for me too!). The colour of my childhood coat was stunning and I don’t remember any of my clothes at that time being so bright and joyful. If you love colour, then select your coat in a fabulous cheery hue which will brighten your day every morning.  Too scary? Then choose one with a fabulous lining. At least you’ll know it’s there. If you must have black, charcoal, chocolate or navy could you find one with an unusual trim on the collar or the pocket? If not, could you liven it up with a fabulous bag? Alternatively, look for brilliant design. I’ve just purchased a long coat in a boring dark grey but the styling is immaculate and very creative. I’ve also purchased a cape style in a bold pattern, which is great for driving 

5.    Check the quality by looking at the label to see if the coat is made of wool. Check all stitching on buttons, lining/fabric edges, collars and hemlines. If you don’t like the buttons, or if you’ve bought from a chainstore, think about changing them so your coat has unique appeal. A lined coat will sit better and be warmer.

6.    Look after it. Your coat is an investment, so make sure you hang it up correctly on the right sized coathanger – preferably wood. Get rid of  piling – usually as a result of your handbag rubbing against the fabric – with a specialist comb from the haberdashery counter of a department store.  Don’t over dry clean as this will spoilt the fabric and may increase shine. If it is genuinely dirty then get it cleaned. If it is just smelly, hang it outside on the washing line to keep it fresh.