Coats. Topcoats. Overcoats. Morning coats. Jackets. Dinner jackets. The list goes on for the millions of different types of jackets worn by men over the last few centuries. After much fuss in last week’s Downton Abbey over the difference between a dinner jacket and dinner whites, I started to give more thought into exactly what a coat is.
There used to be many different types of jackets meant to be worn on only certain occasions. Though, as centuries went on, a coat and a jacket became just a coat and a jacket. However, after seeing this Fashionisto donned what I’ve learned is a topcoat, I started to think about the many different styles available.
This Fashionisto is wearing a topcoat, which is similar to an overcoat except it stops above the knee. He’s rocking a more casual look with a simple pair of jeans and a pair of two-toned Sperry Top-Siders. This Fashionisto’s look is a great example of a toned-down look that’s great for dinner parties and the office.
Taking a closer look at his Banana Republic coat, it has a nice herringbone pattern, which gives this particular coat a bit of character. The size and fit is perfect because the sleeves sit nicely on his wrists and they’re roomy enough to fit a suit jacket underneath for a dressier look. He pairs his coat with the perfect cold weather accessory, a simple gray wool scarf.
To achieve this Fashionisto’s look is simple: invest, invest, invest. A good coat should be an investment piece; a wool coat never goes out of style. I love this Banana Republic camel colored coat. I’ve found that having pockets located near your rib cage is perfect for keeping your hands warm while walking out in the cold. I also love this Lauren by Ralph Lauren coat with the hidden buttons; it has a nice modern feel to it.