In Quebec, coats are worn three seasons a year. So it's important to know how to choose the right one. Although its primary function is to protect you from the cold, it's also important that it's stylish and comfortable. There are several criteria to consider before you check out: cut, color, size, materials and style. Here are our tips and advice!
The perfect fit
Before choosing the cut of your coat, you need to know your silhouette. Here are our tips for different body types.
If you're short, opt for a short or mid-length coat. The ideal length is no longer than your buttocks. Coats that are too long will tend to crush you.
On the other hand, if you want to go in that direction, opt for patterns or vertical stripes to slim and give volume to your waist.
If you have curves, you need a coat that will structure your silhouette. In this case, opt for a fitted model to emphasize your waist.
If you're tall and have a complex about it, choose a short coat. On the other hand, if you want to emphasize your waistline, long coats, which are very much on trend, will fit you like a glove. If you're going in this direction, avoid adding too much volume. A straight cut will be more advantageous.
V-shaped morphologists should avoid shoulder pads, so as not to widen their already sporty silhouette any further.
An A-shape will opt for a straight coat that won't accentuate the volume at the hips. This silhouette can opt for epaulets, since the upper body is smaller.
H's and I's look great in straight-cut coats. They should add less volume to your shoulders and pelvis to balance out your silhouette.
The right colour for you
It goes without saying that black is a must-have wardrobe staple. But when you already have one, have fun!
For an everyday coat, avoid overly flamboyant colors. You need to take into account the colors you wear most often to make an intelligent match.
The colors that work best together and are most in vogue are denim blue, burgundy, emerald green, beige, cream, brown, khaki, gray and even the plaid coat.
If you want something a little brighter to wear from time to time, red, mustard yellow, royal blue and orange are original colors that are sure to liven up your look.
Then there's the complexion, hair and eye colour. A beige coat with blond hair is to be avoided. A red coat with red hair, too. A pale beige coat with dark blond hair, acceptable! A burgundy coat with coppery red hair, too! The secret: contrasts. Tone on tone makes the look less strong, more muted. But some contrasts just don't work. Green, for example. If you have a lot of redness, it will make it stand out more.
Perfect greatness
When shopping, always bring a cardigan, cotton fleece or relatively thick wool sweater with you. When it gets really cold in winter, no matter how much insulation your coat has, you'll probably be wearing a few layers underneath. If your coat is too tight, it won't warm you up properly. It can also restrict your mobility.
Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect size:
The arm test: stretch your arms out in front of you or raise them to the sky. If you have "water in the cellar" at the wrists and hips, your coat is too small. You'll constantly have cold drafts coming in through these areas.
On the other hand, if lifting your arms into the sky causes a lot of fabric to gather at the shoulders, it may be too big for you, which isn't any better.
Then cross your arms from shoulder to shoulder. In other words, hug each other. If you feel resistance in your elbows and shoulders, the size above will be a better option for you.
The shoulder seam should arrive just before your biceps. If it reaches the middle, it's either too big or the style is too loose. For a classic cut, the seam should line up perfectly with your shoulders.
Materials to prioritize and avoid
Choose from wool, down, synthetics or a mix of these.
Down as insulation has several advantages: it's very light and very warm. It's also ideal for cold, dry climates. Down coats are also the most durable and comfortable.
Synthetic down also has its advantages. It's just as warm as natural down, and stands up very well to cold, damp climates. This imitation down, which is very much in evidence in new coat models, is hypoallergenic and dries very quickly. It is, however, heavier. The choice is yours!
Waterproofing is also very important. Make sure the coat is indeed waterproof or water-repellent.
Wool coats should be made predominantly of wool. 100% wool, although very warm and high quality, is not necessary. As long as the wool percentage is the highest, you're assured of good quality. Wool is a great insulator, it breathes and absorbs moisture well. However, it's not waterproof and won't protect you from the wind. So it's perfect for milder days.
Make way for style
You're putting on your best suit, your favorite outfit, your most professional suit, but you don't know what coat to match it with? It's so easy!
It's not time to wear your technical coat for outdoor sports. It's time to get out your more stylish coats. You don't want to break the style of the suit. It's important to choose it carefully, so that it enhances your outfit rather than detracting from it.
The long, elegant coat can be worn over any style of suit. Colours such as grey, black or brown will easily match all your suits. What's more, it doesn't just look good with your suits, it will also work well with your everyday outfits.
The trench coat is also a great option. Classic, timeless, trendy and practical, it will enhance your suit.
The caban is the most casual option of all. It won't work with all your clothes, due to its length, but it's nonetheless chic and elegant.
Then, have some fun: fur hood, matching hat and large scarf, wool tuque and gloves... Don't mix too many colours, especially if your coat or outfit is more flamboyant, you don't want your accessories to steal the show!
Here is our beautiful selection of coats and jackets.