A fashionable coat can transform any outfit, especially since it’s the one item you’ll be wearing most often during fall and winter if you live in the Midwest.
This season’s most popular silhouettes will make it slightly easier to embrace the anticipated colder temperatures.
Robe
Elle and Women’s Wear Daily are calling robe coats one of the chicest trends for fall. Belted wraps are cozy, luxe and easy to throw over any outfit. Tie one on!
Trina Turk Coat—Ali Wrap, $545, Bloomingdale's
Oversized
“Coats this season are huge. Literally!” says Vince Theodore, Y.E.S. selling specialist at Bloomingdale’s, Westfield Old Orchard. “Lots of designers are showing styles that are oversized and unstructured. Drop shoulders and oversized sleeves are everywhere, not to mention long lengths—mainly styles that go to the knee and some even longer.”
Motorcycle
“One exception to the long coat trend is the super awesome leather motorcycle style,” Theodore says. “Theory’s ‘Phelan’ is a waist length with an edgy collar and some great sleeve zipper detail.” A moto leather jacket is timeless, ultra-cool and a worthwhile investment piece. Plus, this kind of item looks amazing as it gets more worn in.
Theory Jacket–Phelan New Ford Leather, $995, Bloomingdale's
Plaid
The on-trend pattern of 2014? Plaid. Rodarte, Victoria Beckham and Thakoon were just a few of the designers that showcased plaid coats at New York Fashion Week. Wear one with a pair of biker boots and your look is effortlessly cool.
Puff
When temperatures reach single digits, you’ll really want to bundle up, but you can still look hip while doing so. Ellen Stirling, owner of The Lake Forest Shop, favors Herno’s luxurious puffy down jackets in various colors and lengths. Stirling says, “Herno coats are a woman's dream: Italian chic, light as air, colorful, practical and versatile. Gives you a reason to count the days until that first chill arrives!”
$835, The Lake Forest Shop
Shearling
It’s all about shearling outerwear this season. If you want to be daring, try a shearling in a funky print or bright color. This style is wild and fun, but will still keep you toasty.
Gray
This season’s “it” color is gray, and you’ll spot many fashions in this versatile neutral tone. The look is sleek, sophisticated and pairs well with any color.
Pastels
If gray isn’t your thing, you’ll be happy to know that pastels are also huge for fall and they add a fantastic color pop. Dusty pink and icy blue look gorgeous over a casual sweater-and-jeans combo as well as with dressier ensembles.
BB DAKOTA Coat, $148, Bloomingdale's
