As temperatures continue to drop, my initial excitement about fall has given way to dread. I normally love mornings and can’t wait for daybreak but the wintry whispers of dawn has me retreating deeper into my blanket cave.
When even the thickest sheet can’t cloak the sun’s mighty beam, I would rise and make my way to piles of warm sweaters.
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| J. Crew Boys’ button-down shirt in Van Buren Gingham (similar) | J. Crew Cambridge Cable Chunky Turtleneck Sweater | Forever 21 Striped Waist Skirt | Zara Double-breasted Wool Coat | See by Chloe Poya Satchel | Charles by Charles David Pompadour Pumps |
I have taken to wearing button-downs underneath turtleneck sweaters for warmth and also as a barrier between my skin and sweaters. A printed blouse also adds visual interest to outfits composed entirely of solid colors.
I own several Zara coats and consider myself a fan of its outerwear options but I have some reservations about ordering relatively inexpensive coats from fast fashion retailers, who are great for trendy indulgences but less ideal for functional pieces, like coats.
I was pleasantly surprised by this $59.99 coat. The material (Shell: 60% wool and 40% polyester; Lining: 100% polyester) was adequate and I like that the style, with wide lapels and little waist suppression, is a departure from coats that I am normally drawn to.
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| Double Breasted Wool Coat | XS | Moss Green Shoulder: 14″ | Sleeve Length: 24.25″ | Length: 37″ |
The coat is warm enough for days with temperatures in the 30’s but is probably not sturdy enough to fend off windier or chillier nights. With a pair of cashmere gloves and several layers, this coat could be sufficient for milder winters.
I kept the coat in grey marl because I already own a light green coat. The size XS–Shoulder: 14″;Sleeve Length: 24.25″;Length: 37″–fit me as intended but I will have to shorten the sleeves by about two inches (I am 5’2 and have arms somewhat proportional to my height).
This coat is a little high-maintenance as it cannot be machine-washed or -dried and must be dry cleaned with perchloroethylene, which is toxic, so you might want to consult with your dry cleaner about using alternative cleaning agents.
