Wool is a wonderful fabric. It’s warm and cozy, but it does have its drawbacks. For one, it can be rather itchy, and it smells terrible when it gets wet. This does not work well for winters in the Pacific Northwest. As fall gets colder, it also gets wetter, and as it gets wetter I feel less inclined to wear my wool pea coat, as it might get wet and smell like wet dog. There is finally a new solution for this. You can still have the classic look of a pea coat, but in a cozy comfy fabric: jersey!
This trend is relatively new and therefore it is harder to do on a budget at this time, but it is slowly making its way into the mass market. This Fashionista was able to get her jacket from a relative who works in retail wholesale, so she is clearly a step ahead of the rest of us. If you need to have this trend now there are beautiful options from Anthropologie and Ralph Lauren.
Whenever you decide to find your alternative pea coat it is important to follow the same rules as you would when choosing a wool blend. Although jersey is a more forgiving fabric in terms of stretch, you still want it to fit well since it is a structured piece. Make sure that it isn’t pulling around the shoulders or waist, and if you plan on wearing another layer under it try it on with an additional layer. It’s your decision whether you want to stick with a classic basic or turn this piece into the focus aspect of your wardrobe. If you’re having trouble deciding, consider how often you may wear it and how flexible you want it to be.
As always, add your own twist with a scarf, belt or even broche.