How to Choose a Topcoat
Every man’s Winter wardrobe should consist of at least one topcoat. It’s a garment that will keep you looking sharp while also keeping you warm. There are several aspects to consider when picking out a topcoat because there are several different styles, fabrics, and colors to keep in mind.
The varying styles offer a wide range of looks to choose from. The Chesterfield is the go-to single-breasted topcoat. It is typically worn over business attire or an evening suit and usually features a wool blend with cashmere or pure cashmere.
Then there is the “Loden.” This particular style became popular during the ’60s and ’70s among students and intellectuals. It features a shirt collar, buttons in braided leather or in bone, armhole hidden by stitched flaps, along the fold on the back, that opens from the top, slanting pockets with flaps, bands with buttons at the end of the sleeves. It’s the perfect topcoat for any age or occasion.
The peacoat is a style that is very common today but one that became popular back in the 17th century among men in the Navy. Its traditional style features a double-breasted line with six big buttons, vertical pockets to warm your hands and the length to the hips. It’s a very versatile coat that can be worn on a variety of occasions from work to a night out.
Finally, there is the “Ulster” which, is the essential elegant overcoat for the Winter, the utmost expression of a tailor’s ability. It features large reverses, eight buttons, shirt-like sleeves with hand-made stitches; pockets with flaps; cuffs with half-belts; back box pleat with slit; and to the sides of the box pleat, two deep pleats; an elegant half-belt; horn buttons; length below the knees. It’s a style that is more elegant and can be worn for more elegant occasions.
Once you have decided on what style topcoat you need to pick a color and fabric. Now, the fabric you decide on will slightly depend on your budget. Wool topcoats will be more modest in price will cashmere blend and pure cashmere topcoats will be higher in price.
The last thing to consider when shopping for a topcoat is the color. Typically there are four core colors to choose from, which are black, grey, blue, and camel. These colors will provide the most versatile wardrobe combinations. So when deciding on what color, or colors, to decide you must consider the rest of your wardrobe and what colors will provide the most outfits.
Topcoats are an absolute essential garment for your Winter wardrobe so you need to pick the right one. So when shopping for one remember the style, fabric, and color. If you have any further questions come on in and design the perfect topcoat for you.