Coats that go with blazers
October 29, 2008 9:53 AM   Subscribe

What kinds of coat should I wear with a blazer?

Yes, this question is as elementary as it sounds, and I'm pretty sure than my North Face parka isn't the right answer.

For example, is this a coat that would be worn with a blazer?

Thanks!
posted by mpls2 to Clothing, Beauty, & Fashion (9 answers total) 7 users marked this as a favorite
 
Yes. This is my favorite coat -- http://www.wilsonsleather.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3307277
posted by lockestockbarrel at 10:01 AM on October 29, 2008


Yeah, a long black or dark gray felt coat. You can usually find them in good shape at the Salvation Army or similar places for around $20.
posted by goatdog at 10:03 AM on October 29, 2008


My BF just went to Heimes Haberdashery for the same thing. He got a great coat, ~$200 and it was tailored for him (sleeves brought up). They are really helpful with all menswear there whether casual or business attire.
posted by wocka wocka wocka at 10:14 AM on October 29, 2008


Yup - that will work just fine. I wear a similar jacket all winter long with my suit/blazer.
posted by xotis at 10:47 AM on October 29, 2008


A trenchcoat or a full-length wool (or camel's hair, or cashmere) overcoat are the answers that don't go out of style. These short overcoats are definitely fashion statements.

Overcoats like this, this, or this. Or a trenchcoat like this. Obviously it doesn't have to cost that much or be those exact styles, but those are some classic styles.
posted by ikkyu2 at 10:48 AM on October 29, 2008


I haven't looked at the links others have provided, so my apologies if this is duplicated-

this is the exact coat that I wear except I bought it at a consignment shop for $50-

3/4 length black wool coat, classic weight, perfect for winter unless you live in the artic.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012V4EI0/ref=nosim/?tag=shopzilla_rev_5-20&linkCode=asn
posted by door2summer at 11:08 AM on October 29, 2008


Best answer: The coat you've linked would be fine worn over a sweater but when worn over a blazer, it would add bulk situated over your torso and chest without elongating much below the waist. If you're tall and/or skinny, that's fine because you've got room to work with.

However, if you're short (like me) or round, a full-length coat like ikkyu2 linked or a 3/4 length coat would be better. The longer coat is more conservative and timeless and has the added effect of elongating your body shape. I also find longer coats are more versatile since it's easier to dress down a long coat than it is to dress up a short, casual coat. For material, go for wool or if it's too pricey, wool blend.

I recommend this or this topcoat by J. Crew. I particularly like the first one in the herringbone pattern that adds nice contrast to a crisp white shirt, tie, and blazer. Pay attention to fit to get one that is snug without being too tight. Ff needed, get the sleeve shortened to the right length (ending at your thumb knuckle) and take in the waist a bit at the sides to add a bit more shape.
posted by junesix at 11:14 AM on October 29, 2008


Affirming junesix's choices from J.Crew, I would add that any slim-line coat that hits right above the knees would tend to be most flattering. The generally named '3/4-length coat,' then, needs to be adjusted to your height. I'm of the opinion that full-length coats look good only on very tall, low-bulk men -- and even in that case only reliably so if it's a double-breasted trench style.
posted by taramosalata at 2:00 PM on October 29, 2008


The herringbone from J. Crew is a good choice. (I own a version of it from a year or two ago.) Banana Republic also makes a few grey and black knee length overcoats in different styles and weights (including some with a quilted lining if you happen to live somewhere cold), and sometimes has microfiber trenchcoats.

You do want to pick a style and construction that matches or compliments the jacket--there are wide style variations within each of the classic shapes/lengths. Highly constructed jackets usually look better with highly constructed coats, unconstructed with unconstructed, etc.

If you have any outlet stores near you, I strongly suggest haunting them for good deals on coats. I've had especially good luck with Polo outlets.
posted by snuffleupagus at 7:07 AM on October 30, 2008


« Older Let's Make Work Easier   |   Al Qaeda's Web Presence Newer »
This thread is closed to new comments.