Stylish Winter Coats Without All the Substance

By Sam Stilson
[Men's Fashion]
How can you stay warm without bulking up in a big winter coat?  Sam Stilson explains how to find a warm winter jacket that still looks great.
When the snow finally hits and the thermostat drops below zero, everyone’s immediate reaction is to bundle up and bundle up fast.  Big, thick sweaters and bulky, overstuffed coats make their way out of the closet and are put on display in the name of keeping warm.  While no man enjoys freezing his butt off, there is such a thing as overdoing it.

This winter instead of panicking and throwing style out the door, think through your winter wear choices and include a little style in your wardrobe.  The most common mistake people make is dressing too bulky.  We’re talking Michelin man outfits.  Unless you work outside in December, you don’t need that much material to fight the cold.  You just need to think ahead and pick your winter coat wisely.

Comfortable Coats

While it is tempting to get a multi-layered, down-filled bomber jacket, resist the temptation and opt for something more form fitting.  The key to looking good this season is slim-fitting, close-cut jackets.  With the lack of fabric, where you are going to make up the warmth is in the kind of material.  Thick wool and leather both look stylish and are capable of locking in your body heat and keeping you snug as a bug in a rug.  The added bonus is that wool and leather coats are often cut in stylish ways that won’t hide the natural shape of your body and will not make you look like a snowman.  They are also light and offer freedom of movement, which will allow you to throw snowballs, run after buses and shovel driveways with ease.

Wool Coats

As has been the case for the last few years, you can never go wrong with a pea coat or a similar cut wool overcoat, though you may want to think about switching up your colour or pattern this year.  Light greys, black, checkered or even some subtle plaid patterns can look good if the jacket is of good quality.  Wearing one over top of dress or business casual clothes will make you will look like a professional.  Wrap a thin, long scarf around your neck, fit it into the opening of your jacket and you will be as warm as you need to be for your commute to work.
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