I need a multi season coat which works for heavy rain periods winter and unexpected cold ice and snow during the winter.

This is a great article, btw (I should have mentioned that above).

I appreciated your suggestion to wear a blazer when trying on winter coats (I learned this the hard way). I’d also add to swing your arms and shoulders around and try picking up things when trying them on, to ensure you have enough range of motion for usual activities like driving, shopping, commuting, etc…

Also, in particularly cold climates (you really can’t get enough warmth in -40C weather!), having enough room to wear another layer on the coldest days is very helpful. My late mother-in-law would sew a removeable warm lining for all her winter coats, and put buttons on the inside of her coats to attach them. That way she only had the added bulk when needed.

Thanks for a great article.

The discussion in the comments on too narrow sleeve holes was helpful. I have broad shoulders which most coats/jackets don’t accommodate without going up a size or two. When this is combined with small armholes I have to go to a large enough size that I swim in them, and the neck doesn’t fit. There’s nothing like investing a lot of money in a good quality coat, only to find that it won’t fit over your favourite business blazer and can’t be altered, to put you off shelling out money for good quality in future.

Manufacturers use slightly varying measurements for their sizes. So it is difficult to predict down to the exact size number. For overcoats, my taste is to err a little on the large side for added comfort. One can always add a belt to vary the exact look. I like the elegance in flow of the fabric in a more comfortable fit, worn closed or open.
Consider that you may want to wear something thicker or a blazer underneath at times, and two steps up would preserve comfort then, and allow easy on and off. Select a coat with silky satin lining, it will improve freedom of movement and look very elegant.

So glad it was useful Cindy. Don’t forget to tell us if you invest in a new coat!

Yes it’s great to have an alternative to your down coat. Happy coat hunting Rebecca!

Yes very true Mat. Thanks for the great feedback!

Haha I can just see it in front of me Mat. You taking off your coat and your mini skirt barely covering your bum! No we don’t need any kind of coat here, but this article was written for the Northern hemisphere and a down coat is an absolute must. I put them in the parka category here, but yes a long down coat is an option too.

Yes it is but very important if you like to wear jackets and blazers like you do. I look forward to seeing your new coats!

Purple is fabulous Aileen. Good that you chose a model that suits your body type! Feel free to upload to Facebook and show it off!