The Handbook - How To Guides
 
 
 
31 Days: Style Tips and Tricks
 
Volume 3
 

All the tips and tricks needed to shape up for 2011. Each day brings new, expert advice on how to look your best and live life to the fullest, while having a little fun doing it.

Clothes
Day
3

Buy a Classic Coat

By now, you've likely got your parka and pea coat but if you don't have an old school overcoat, it's the time to think about getting one. A classic coat will be as stylish today as it will be in a decade. But here's the real reason: they'll be going on sale later this month at most major department stores to make room for new spring merchandise. Here's a guide to four stand-up styles. Whether you opt for wool, tweed or camel is a matter of personal taste.

 

The Car Coat

When the automobile became predominant in the 1950s, drivers needed a top coat that hit above the knee. This single breasted style is the most versatile of the four.

The Polo Coat

This refined, double breasted style is based on the coats once worn by British polo players warming the bench. Brooks Brothers introduced the style to America in 1910.

Biased Advice

A black coat can sometimes feel a bit formal, so we suggest trying navy, gray or even olive green for more versatility.

The Chesterfield

Named after the sixth Earl of Chesterfield in 1830 and popularized by the 1960s mod movement, the tailored coat is still cut from tweeds, charcoals and camels but nowadays, the velvet collar is often removable.

The Duffle

This coat was first made by England's Gloverall from a heavy wool woven in the Belgian town of Duffel for the British military. In the 1950s, it was introduced to the public and quickly found its way to Ivy League campuses.

 

FYI

Coats are cut to accommodate a suit jacket. So if you're a size 40 suit, try on a size 40 topcoat.

Share

 
Facebook
 
 
Clothes
Etiquette
Food & Drink
Space
Personal Care
A Month of Tips