How to find the best men’s overcoats.
In Irish fashion news, we take a look at why every fashionable guy should own a overcoat. As the saying goes, if you have good taste, you can shop anywhere. However, knowing what to purchase when you get there is a different story.
For any smart-casual occasions that crop up during the year, your overcoat is hard to beat. It is insulating, versatile and easy to dress up or down. This makes this outerwear style a must-have for any modern man’s wardrobe.
Although it might not be waterproof, wool is water-resistant. It is capable of carrying up to 20 percent of its weight in water without feeling heavy.
As well as that, it is also a great material for keeping you warm. This is because it is made from fine hairs that trap air which can be heated by your body.
And then you have the simple cut and design of your overcoat. This means that you can take it to your office party just as easily as you can throw it over your hoodie. If you want to know why men’s overcoats are a wardrobe essential, keep on reading.
What Exactly Is An Overcoat?
Just like with many other menswear staples, it is hard to pinpoint exactly when the overcoat emerged first. Some accounts claim the year 1772 while other say it was sometime in the 19th century. Regardless, we know that overcoats have been around and worn before the Regency Period in Britain.
Usually crafted from a heavy material such as wool, your overcoat should absolutely be a key part of your modern wardrobe. It is a coat with long sleeves and typically single or double-breasted. And it usually has a vent at the back.
On the other hand, your topcoat is something that people often confuse with the overcoat. It typically is made from a lighter material and extends to the knee at the longest.
And to add to your confusion even more, you also have the greatcoat. Which, for an intents and purposes, is a way of referring to your overcoat that is bulky, heavy and hard-wearing.
What Should You Look For When Buying An Overcoat?
There are a few things to keep in mind when buying your perfect overcoat. From the right fabric to fit, here is what you need to know.
What’s The Best Fabric?
You are probably looking for an overcoat that you can wear for years to come. If that is the case, you should choose a style that is 100 percent wool. And be sure to go with something that has a decent weight to it. This is about 4 pounds for most men.
An overcoat that is entirely made from wool will keep you warm and weather the storm. And this is without falling to pieces.
If you are looking to bring a touch of luxury to your outfit, you can try a cashmere overcoat. Just be warned that they can get eye-watering expensive. Also, they will likely show wear around the cuffs and collar quicker than your wool coat. And you can always try a blend of the two fabrics if you cannot go without luxury.
What’s The Right Fit?
We know that your overcoat is the last thing you throw on in the morning. However, how it hangs on your body should not be left as an afterthought.
Fit is extremely important when it comes to any clothes you wear. when you choose a suit to wear, you need to make sure that there is enough room in the shoulders to fit your blazer on top. The same goes for your coat. As well as feeling uncomfortable to wear, it will look like your coat is too small for you.
If you are looking for an overcoat for your casual wardrobe, it is best to go with a size down and with a soft shoulder. This will give you a sleek look.
What’s The Best Colour?
Spending money on an overcoat might set you back financially. However, this can be an investment you are sure to get a handsome return on. But this is providing that you wear it regularly. Which means that you need to choose the right colour.
Navy is a good choice as it will work with most of your wardrobe. However, do not let this stop you from trying a rich camel shade. It looks just as good with your tailoring but can be dressed down with denim.
Just like your shirts, trousers and ties, block colours should be your starting point. From there, you can move on to more interesting patterns like checks.
What Style Should You Go For?
If you have been keeping up with fashion trends, you will know that designers are constantly experimenting. And, when it comes to the overcoat, it is no different.
But while brands are adding in elbow patches, contrasting collars and raglan shoulder, you have two main styles to go with. These are the single-breasted or the double-breasted overcoat.
Your single-breasted overcoat will give you a more minimal and clean look. this enables them to be paired with everything in your wardrobe. From your office suits to your jeans and an Oxford shirt, your overcoat will work.
On the other hand, your double-breasted overcoat have an air of tradition about them. And so, they pair easily with your formal attire, like tailoring.
But you can make them work with less formal pieces if left unbuttoned and dressed down. When it comes to texture and pattern, a herringbone finish can help you make a statement.
Tips On How To Wear Your Overcoat for all seasons
In case you do not know, your overcoat is intended as an outerwear layer worn during cold weather. But there are many people think that this piece is a final addition to your suit. However, your overcoat has the potential to be so much more.
For a casual look perfect for the everyday, slip on your coat over a fitted gingham shirt with acid wash jeans. You can finish off with boot socks and a pair of chunky Doc Martens.
But there are times when you need to wear something a little more refined but not formal. If that is the case, wear your overcoat over a slim blazer, jumper, white Oxford shirt and wool trousers. Slip on a pair of Derbies and you have got yourself a super stylish look.
If you are on the short side, try not to overwhelm yourself with fabric. Instead, go for a neat, fitted style that falls above the knee. Taller people or those with large builds can experiment with longer styles.
What Are The Best Menswear Brands To Be Aware Of?
When it comes to high quality fashion for everyone’s budget, there are some brand you need to know about. Keep reading for the best menswear brands that should be on your radar.
A Day’s March
Cut, quality and affordable options are on offer with Swedish menswear brand A Day’s March. And this makes it a brand that should be on your radar.
Their overcoats give you contemporary updates on traditional styles with fits that hug your shoulders. And they are often produced using wool from historic Italian mills.
Reiss
If you are looking for premium British menswear without all the waffle, look no further than Reiss. And it makes sense that the brand excels at the overcoat.
They craft this simple heritage staple out of textured wool-blend for a modern, neat and slim look. Make sure to grab a version of their overcoat in a light oatmeal colour. It is a sleek take on this classic piece of outerwear.
Hugo Boss
Hugo Boss is one of the most iconic and well-known brands out there. And there is a reason why everyone knows the name. when it comes to making premium clothing, Hugo Boss has German engineering down to an art form.
Don’t believe us? You really have to look no further than their selection of overcoats. Swapping bells and whistles for smooth linings, the brand’s overcoats come in quality wool and cashmere. With suit-like linings and notched lapels, they look like they were swiped straight from the handbook on tailoring.
Marks & Spencer
If you are worried that buying an overcoat will break your bank, you don’t have to be. There are so many brands out there that offer quality clothing at great prices for anyone’s budget.
And one such brand is Marks & Spencer. This department store consistently turn out classic variations of outerwear in wool and other premium fabrics.
This brand is proof that you do not need to skip a couple of meals in order to affordable fashionable clothes.
Asket
If you are looking for a garment that is high in quality that lasts a lifetime, you need to know about Asket.
Their fierce loyalty to creating garments that last makes them a staple in any modern man’s wardrobe. And one of the best things about this brand is their Lifecycle Commitment.
They are ready to take back and repair pieces of clothing you no longer wear. however, with their commitment to high-quality pieces that are both comfortable and functional, you will get your money’s and season’s worth out of your jacket.
How to find the best men’s overcoats. Irish fashion news