The Car Coat

When your blazer or suit jacket isn't insulating enough on its own, a car coat will keep you warm and looking sharp. Often cropped just a few inches above the knee, they're trim in both the sleeves and waist. Think of it as younger and more streamlined than a traditional overcoat, but just as slick. The car coat rose to popularity in the early part of the 20th century, as automobiles became widespread in the US and well-dressed drivers needed a coat that would keep them warm. Originally made from melton wool, they're now available in a range of materials and patterns like tweed. The attributes that made them unique however—a flat front that prevented bunching at the waist and a shorter length which allows the legs to move freely—still come in handy today.

FYI

Cashmere blend coat,
$219 (on sale), by Calvin Klein

Wool epsom coat,
$512 by Ted Baker

Herringbone wool
coat, $1,120
by Richard James

Camel wool,
$250 by
Banana Republic

Wool cashmere coat,
$398 by J.Crew