I’ve often said that a coat is the best investment for the colder seasons. It not only affects your mood, but also how others see you. Which cut, style, fit and colour to choose – these are the questions we’ll be exploring in today’s article. In the end, you’ll know how to choose a great coat. Which coat should I choose, and which coat will never be in my wardrobe? Let’s start with my favourites. I have two models:

Raglan Coat

This coat has a straighter cut and its main feature is the sleeve design. The sleeve is not stitched at the shoulder, but continues all the way to the neck. I like this style because it creates a smooth line from the arm to the neck. In my winter wardrobe I have two classic raglan coats and one combined with an Ulster coat. This was a personal experiment at Pitti Uomo and I think it turned out great. We added darts to the back and cuffs to the sleeves. One coat is classic with a belt and one is double-breasted, which we did without a belt. It’s also important to note the wide collar and the length of the coat.

Ulster Coat

This coat has a beautiful back and a half belt, usually with buttons at the sides and about 6 centimetres wide. There is also a nice dart down the back. It has patch pockets on the front, a wide lapel and collar. The sleeves are sewn on at the shoulders and always have wide cuffs, 5-6 centimetres wide.

Coats to Avoid: What I Would Never Choose

Synthetic materials. Always a bad choice. I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating. Black, or maybe even camel and plain grey. Short cuts. Short coats are usually badly cut and of poor quality. Especially coats with narrow lapels. This is a bad idea. Classic three button coats.

How to Style It: Outfit Ideas

The winter climate in Europe often allows coats to be worn with loafers or other low shoes. In colder climates you can choose Chelsea boots or Chukka boots – similar styles, the difference being the laces. I don’t really like to wear coats with blazers. I prefer turtlenecks, shirts or zip-up jumpers. Long-sleeved polo shirts also look great. Add a stylish scarf and the look is complete.

Choosing the Right Color for Your Coat

I like a dark navy coat that we made ourselves with a houndstooth pattern in beige tones. I also have a brown houndstooth coat.

Finally, I’d like to remind you that a good coat doesn’t come cheap, but it’s a good investment that will last you more than one season and set the mood for the whole cold season.

Fact in the Spotlight

The coat with raglan sleeves was invented in the early 19th century, in 1815 to be precise. The style was named after the British Field Marshal FitzRoy James Henry Somerset, 1st Baron Raglan (Lord Raglan). After the Battle of Waterloo, Somerset lost his arm and a special sleeve design was developed for his convenience, allowing him to move more easily and wear clothing more comfortably.

Quote of the Week

Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.

Winston Churchill

That’s all for today. See you on Saturday next week!

Yours sincerely, Anton Masko