Sigh. Is there anything better than a coat? Not to betray my lover loungewear, but I firmly believe that a coat is the most magical wardrobe item anyone can own. When classic and tailored, throw it over anything — whether it be jeans, leggings, or even pajamas (yep, that’s me) — and it instantly smartens up your outfit. When long and oversized, any outfit becomes street-style chic. Furry like a leopard? Hello, you glamazon.
In a perfect world — where I had a closet full of Chloe and Chanel — I’d have a variety of coats to suit my mood and outfit. I figure, if you live in any remotely-cold country, a coat is one of the most worn items in your closet. It makes sense to have a fair few, right? Riiiiight? *wink wink, Stag*
But — a big but, sigh — I don’t live in that perfect world. WHAT?! I know. And even if I did, I hope I’d still firmly hold on to my guiding principle of ‘Quality Over Quantity.’ Have fewer, better things.
So if you, like me, want to own fewer, better things, then which coats do you choose, when there are so so so (all the so’s) many ones to choose from? Well, my friends, you’ve come to the right place.
The Capsule Coat Edit
A Classic Wool Coat
COAT | TOPSHOP (SOLD OUT ONLINE | SIMILAR)
SILK SHIRT | MADEWELL
JEANS | LOU & GREY
LAPTOP BAG | KNOMO LONDON (SIMILAR)
BOOTS | SAM EDELMAN
If you’re going to have one coat in your wardrobe, let it be this one. The LBD of the coat world, this is the one that will see you from day to night, and will instantly transform any of your outfits from boring to classic. Invest in a quality one, and it will see you through for years and years. Spend some time in the shops and try on a variety of shapes and colors. For me, my go-to is a double-breasted, slightly longer cut in either camel or grey.
My Picks
A (Faux) Fur Number
The definite ‘fun’ choice of the bunch, this is for the days when you feel so glam you just can’t quit. Fur coats have been in style for a few years now, but recently teddy numbers and shearling aviator styles hare cropped up to the fore. If you’re not a 6’2 svelte modelling, keep in mind that shorter, furrier numbers can make you look, well, short and furry. Pay attention to cut, length and the style of fur. And if the idea of this type of style sends you quaking with fear, pick one in a neutral color — or even leopard! (Hey, if I can pull one off, anyone can).
My Picks
Long, Checked and Cool
Similar to your classic wool coat above, but with more of an edge. This is the coat you pull out when you want to feel like a fashionista or a Danish street-style model (which, let’s be real, is my dream all the time). The print names range from checked, plaid, and houndstooth to Prince of Wales to Tartan, and everything in between.
Get even more brownie points with a duster-style, long-length ‘maxi’ coat. However, if you are five feet nothing (*waves to her short best friend*… sorry!), you may want to avoid this long style and instead opt for a similarly patterned and cut number in a hip-skimming length.
My Picks
Your All-Weather Option
Because if you need a coat, chances are, some weather other than ‘sun’ will appear in your life. If you’re looking to invest in one good coat that will last you seasons (which, considering this is a capsule edit, please say yes!), this may seem obvious, but make sure it’s water/windproof, warm and durable. Puffer coats are always a great choice, as are thicker raincoats. Bonus points if it has a hood. Because who has time for umbrellas?
My Picks
Four options for capsule? Really?
I’m keeping my capsule edit to 4 coat styles. Why? Because capsule, for one thing. And two, because I genuinely believe that with just these 4 styles — heck, even 2 of these! — you’ll be covered for every eventuality, outfit and mood. I know some people change coats like they change TV programs. This simply is not necessary.
Better for the environment, better for wallet, and better for your decision-making process in the morning. What more could you want?
What do you think of my capsule coat edit? Do you agree that these 4 are the classic staples of any wardrobe? What’s your favorite coat?