Winter is coming!
By Barbara Petty
December 2005
Winter is coming! If you haven’t bought
a new outer coat in the last few years (myself included)
now is the time to do so. The variety and selection of coats
are the best I’ve seen in years. Last year we had
two choices, the plaid Topper or the poncho. This year we
have a much greater selection of choices, however, three
main trends have emerged.
The
Trench:
This timeless classis is back in a big way. Buttoned and
belted, the trench is being shown in a variety of fabrics
– from crushed velvet, to winter wool in plaids and
solids, and the traditional poplin. This style is suited
to the mature woman to a T because of its clean lines and
“trend less” sophistication. The trench is also
a good choice because it is flattering to most figure types,
with a few considerations. If you are larger woman, choose
a single row of buttons because the double-breasted style
adds width. I’ve seen a version where there is a p
lacket
down the front that actually hides the buttons altogether
and adds a slimming vertical line. Avoid the bulkier fabrics
such as wool bouclé and larger plaid prints. Don’t
be afraid to use the belt, because a defined waist is more
attractive than a box look. For shorter women, make sure
the trench does not fall below the knees because thelength
will make you look even shorter. An exception to that statement,
if you pair it with heeled boots of the same color, the
longer monochromatic look will indeed add height.
The
Big Collar:
Lots of different cuts and styles are being shown with an
oversized collar. This is a great look for the woman with
larger hips and derriere because the detail draws the eye
upwards towards the face. The big collar that fits close
to the face is great for women with a long neck. Conversely,
if you have a short neck, look for a collar that has a deep
v, or an asymmetrical cut. The fur-trimmed collars and cuffs
are wonderful for evening.
The
Cape:
Modified from the poncho, the cape is comfortable and more
casual than the overcoat. Some styles actually have arms
and resemble a swing coat, but I’ve put them in the
same category. Because of the informal look of the cape,
youcan have fun with more dramatic fabrics or colors.
NOTE: I try to avoid promoting
specific stores, but Ifound thiscool moleskin coat at Lark
Apparel, located on South EstesStreet in Chapel Hill. Designed
by YansiFugel, this micro-fiber iswashable and reversible.
Not warm enough for the more severe weather,this simply-cut,
zippered front coat will suffice for much of the fall and
early spring temperatures.
CREDITS: Pink Trench – Burberry;
Tan Trench – Vogue Patterns; Periwinkle Coat –
Butterick Patterns; White Coat – Vogue Patterns; Green
Cape – Vogue Patterns.
