Winter Fashion: Coats

Long Sweater

Long, cozy sweaters are perfect for the days when the mornings are cold and the afternoons are sunny. Unlike other winter coats, they can range from $10 to several hundred dollars—this particular cardigan was $45 at Shop Girls Boutique in Brookside. Dress it up by layering a collared shirt underneath and cinching with a bright belt, or go lazy with a patterned cardigan, black leggings and boots. Pair with a rucksack-style backpack to complete the casual look.

Classy Trench

Just because it’s chilly outside doesn’t mean that you have to throw on your old, ratty North Face fleece for dressier occasions. Instead, try a classic wool coat with an unexpected twist, such as this one from Zara. The color and shape is traditional, but the asymmetrical buttons add visual interest and set it apart from the sea of black pea coats. During colder weather, layer a bright vest underneath for warmth and a hint of color. Just make sure that the coat is longer than the layers underneath it to avoid the impromptu skirt.

Puffer Coat

Puffy coats have finally grown out of their adolescent “Michelin Man” phase. When it’s truly cold outside, goose down seems to be the only way to go. The Patagonia Men’s Down Sweater shown here, unlike other down jackets, doesn’t add the look of an extra 40 pounds that is common to puffers. Though good-quality puffer coats are often expensive (the one shown is $200), they often last for years and can be paired with almost anything: jeans, khakis, button-downs, suits, or under skiing gear.

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