Everyone needs a high-quality overcoat. Regardless of where you live, you are bound to encounter some bad weather from time to time. Maybe it's pouring raining perhaps, or perhaps the temperature has dropped to below freezing. When the weather turns south, however, look no further than an overcoat. A high-quality overcoat will protect you from the rain, snow, sleet and cold temperatures -- all while creating a more stylish appearance in the process. So, what type of overcoat should you choose?
Check the Material
Not all overcoats are made of the same material. Some are made of soft materials, whereas others are made of harder or coarser materials. There are also overcoats made of lightweight materials, and there are overcoats made of heavier materials.
Wool overcoats are an all-around excellent choice. Derived from high-quality sheep's fur, they are incredibly soft yet still relatively lightweight. Wool overcoats are particularly useful during the winter thanks to their insulative properties. A wool overcoat will protect against the loss of body heat, allowing you to stay warm and comfortable even when it's cold outside.
In addition to wool, you can't go wrong with a tweed overcoat. Technically speaking, tweed is a type of woolen material. Like wool, it's made of fur. The difference is that tweed features a more closely kitted pattern that creates the appearance of a herringbone formation. Jargon aside, tweed overcoats feature similar properties as high-quality wool but with an added touch of aesthetics.
Single vs Double Breasted
Overcoats can be classified as either single or double breasted, depending on how their buttons are configured. All overcoats have buttons on the front. You can open or close an overcoat by fastening or unfastening these buttons. Single-breasted overcoats, however, only have a single column of buttons. In comparison, double-breasted overcoats have two columns of buttons.
Single-breasted overcoats are synonymous with modern fashion trends. They offer a slimmer and sleeker appearance than double-breasted overcoats. With that said, some men still prefer the classic appearance of a double-breasted overcoat. Regardless of which you category you fall under, you'll need to decide whether a single- or double-breasted style is right for you when shopping for an overcoat.
Pay Attention to the Length
Don't forget to check the length when shopping for an overcoat. An overcoat isn't just a regular coat or jacket. Rather, overcoats are designed with a longer length that extends all the way -- or in some cases past -- your knees when worn.
If an overcoat is too short, it won't offer much protection against bad weather and cold temperatures. At the same time, short-length overcoats are typically less-attractive than their longer counterparts. Don't make the mistake of choosing a short overcoat. For the highest level of protection, as well as the greatest aesthetic value, you need to choose an overcoat in an appropriate length. Avoid choosing a short overcoat and, instead, choose one with a relatively long length that extends to about your knees when worn.
Evaluate the Pockets
Although there are a few exceptions, most overcoats -- especially high-quality overcoats -- feature pockets. As shown above, the Corduroy Long Coat sold here at StudioSuits features three front-facing pockets. There are two pockets on the front-right side and one pocket on the front-left side.
Of course, not all overcoats feature this same pocket configuration. Others use a different number of pockets or placement of pockets. For example, it's not uncommon for overcoats to feature a single breast pocket. In cases such as this, the breast pocket will be located on the front right or left side. The pockets found on overcoats help to improve their functionality while also adding a unique visual element to their appearance.
Single or Multiple Colors
You need to decide whether you want an overcoat in a single color or multiple colors. Single-colored overcoats are popular because they are easy to incorporate into a variety of outfits. Multi-colored overcoats, on the other hand, offer a more unique appearance but can restrict the garments and accessories with which you can wear them.
If you're going to choose a single-colored overcoat, stick with a common color. Black is an excellent choice because, like other universal colors, it's easy to match. You can wear a black overcoat with garments and accessories in nearly all other colors, except for brown. Don't let that fool you into thinking that black is the only suitable color for an overcoat, though. You can choose an overcoat in countless other colors; just remember to stick with a color that you are comfortable wearing and flows with your personal style.
When choosing a multi-colored overcoat, on the other hand, consider the exact colors used in its design and whether or not they match. If an overcoat features two or more clashing colors, you may want to look elsewhere. Instead, choose an overcoat with a combination of flowing and cohesive colors that complement each other.
Get the Right Size
Perhaps the most important factor to consider when shopping for an overcoat is the size. If it doesn't fit, it won't be comfortable to wear. More importantly, you won't feel confident in it.
How do you know whether an overcoat fits? Here at StudioSuits, we offer custom sizing on all overcoats, as well as suits, at no additional charge. When you place an order, you can tell us your body measurements. Therefore, you aren't restricted to choosing an overcoat in a standard or generic measurement. If you order from StudioSuits, you can specify your body measurements to get the perfect fit.
An overcoat is a smart investment that's guaranteed to pay off in the long run. It will protect from the rain, sleet, snow and cold temperatures while also taking your style to the next level. Just remember to shop around and find the right overcoat for your personal needs.
