For those in the market for an all-purpose, timeless overcoat that is suitable for milder winters, look no further than the J. Crew Double-Breasted Topcoat in Wool Cashmere (now 50% off in five colorways online with code GONUTS). The coat in “Radiant Orange” (pictured) is the only adventurous color option offered; if you are looking for something more classic (borderline sedate), try the coat in one of four neutral hues: navy, black, “Sienna” (a sandy brown), and heather gray.
FIT Sizes run 00 to 24 in “classic” and 00 to 12 in petite. The fit as designed is relaxed so I took my regular size which allows room for a bulky layer (or two thinner ones). Like other J. Crew tailored outerwear, the sleeves on this coat are a little short so those who are petite but have long arms may want to try the classic fit. Otherwise, if you are in between sizes, size down for a more tailored fit.
(The coat in size 00P measures 16-3/4″ from underarm to underarm, 14.5″ across the shoulder, 38.75″ in overall length, and 22″ in sleeve length.)
MATERIAL/CONSTRUCTION The medium-weight fabric (75% virgin wool, 20% polyamide, and 5% cashmere) has the appearance of felt, is soft to the touch, and passes the “scrunch test” (which tests wrinkle recovery) easily. There are no glaring quality issues to speak of; the coat is lined and the buttons reinforced.
PRICE The $398 price tag is a bit steep for a coat that’s essentially 20% nylon, but why would anyone pay full-price at J.Crew anymore? 40% off and 50% off store-wide promotions are frequent, so wait for one of those sales.
SEASONALITY I wore this coat repeatedly earlier this fall as it’s not cumbersome and complements seemingly every outfit I tried with it. I found it best for temperatures 50°F and warmer. You could layer strategically and extend its season, but topcoats are not designed to withstand heavy gusts of wind.
Buy the J. Crew Double-Breasted Topcoat in Wool Cashmere here.
Relatedly, until 12/19/19, take 50% off (nearly) everything (including sale styles) at J.Crew with code GONUTS. Shipping is free on all orders for J. Crew Rewards members (membership is free); free returns to stores. My picks:
In other sale news:
♥ C By Bloomingdale’s cashmere sweaters and other winter gear are now 50-60% off online. I would recommend the Cashmere Travel Wrap and Open-Front Cashmere Cardigan.
♥ Sale styles are Farfetch are an extra 35% off with code 35FF.
♥ Bergdorf Goodman is currently running two sales online: sale styles are now an extra 15% off (prices as marked); and you can earn up to $12,000 in gift cards with regular-priced purchases (enter code BGDEC at checkout).
♥ Lastly, sale styles are Kate Spade are an extra 40% off with code BIGGERSALE. Standard shipping is free on all orders.
Happy shopping!
