Maybe try looking for a vintage coat? As opposed to how fabrics are done today, before a wool coat was actually that, made out of wool. It's kind of a hunt, sure, but I find that the coats I inherited or bought second were always higher quality and affordable.
I have had this same struggle for many years... I gave in to the puffer coat last year. Knee length. The most mumsy thing I own by far and, well, I'd recommend it. You won't look especially stylish... But it makes standing in the park pushing the same swing over and over until you die much more bearable
I feel ya. Coats are my guilty pleasure, specially when browsing vintage and charity shops. And yet I think I only own ONE coat that ticks all the boxes. But at least I'm done with my "Well it looks better open so it's ok if it doesn't fully close...*and then freezes her tits in the Scottish winter*" phase!
In England in the 90s everyone in their 20s had these wool school coats in the back of their closet - I cannot remember what they're called, maybe just duffle coats? I was a Midwestern American living and working there, and I wore my boyfriend's and felt so cool! It's still the favorite coat I ever wore. thank you for bringing back all the memories with your fabulous (and much cooler) pics from London. I'm a new subscriber and your Substack is going to take me right back, I look forward to it!
I found a pure wool ankle length number in a charity shop in the Surrey Hills and have worn it every winter since. Surrey Hills charity shops are also ace for preloved cashmere which is warmer than heat tech any day and achingly soft for the grief-filled grey sludge of a British winter. Wool all the way in Winter. Those bankerbelt wives know where it’s at and are tres generous with their cast offs.
Completely agree! I faced the same sinking heart pulling out the hooded, water resistant, long Lands End puffer I’ve worn the last three winters here in Seattle and will live in for the next six months. It effectively keeps me warm and dry, but if only there was something equally practical that looked sharper!
I have this puffer saved (thanks to Becky Malinsky) https://aetherapparel.com/products/stirling-jacket .. maybe next year, I want more wear out of my ole faithful J Crew puffer as it’s still perfectly fine!
How do you feel about Peacoats? The type with the flip up collar and flap. I’ve always found they fit the balance between warm and not looking like I enjoy being outdoors.
Maybe try looking for a vintage coat? As opposed to how fabrics are done today, before a wool coat was actually that, made out of wool. It's kind of a hunt, sure, but I find that the coats I inherited or bought second were always higher quality and affordable.
I have had this same struggle for many years... I gave in to the puffer coat last year. Knee length. The most mumsy thing I own by far and, well, I'd recommend it. You won't look especially stylish... But it makes standing in the park pushing the same swing over and over until you die much more bearable
I feel ya. Coats are my guilty pleasure, specially when browsing vintage and charity shops. And yet I think I only own ONE coat that ticks all the boxes. But at least I'm done with my "Well it looks better open so it's ok if it doesn't fully close...*and then freezes her tits in the Scottish winter*" phase!
In England in the 90s everyone in their 20s had these wool school coats in the back of their closet - I cannot remember what they're called, maybe just duffle coats? I was a Midwestern American living and working there, and I wore my boyfriend's and felt so cool! It's still the favorite coat I ever wore. thank you for bringing back all the memories with your fabulous (and much cooler) pics from London. I'm a new subscriber and your Substack is going to take me right back, I look forward to it!
Perhaps pea jackets? Navy jackets?
Yes, that sounds right!
I found a pure wool ankle length number in a charity shop in the Surrey Hills and have worn it every winter since. Surrey Hills charity shops are also ace for preloved cashmere which is warmer than heat tech any day and achingly soft for the grief-filled grey sludge of a British winter. Wool all the way in Winter. Those bankerbelt wives know where it’s at and are tres generous with their cast offs.
Completely agree! I faced the same sinking heart pulling out the hooded, water resistant, long Lands End puffer I’ve worn the last three winters here in Seattle and will live in for the next six months. It effectively keeps me warm and dry, but if only there was something equally practical that looked sharper!
I have this puffer saved (thanks to Becky Malinsky) https://aetherapparel.com/products/stirling-jacket .. maybe next year, I want more wear out of my ole faithful J Crew puffer as it’s still perfectly fine!
One word: Herno.
I love the Uniqlo down under another coat trick too. Vests are great and wonderful for travel
I haunt the resale shops, or online poshmark etc
How do you feel about Peacoats? The type with the flip up collar and flap. I’ve always found they fit the balance between warm and not looking like I enjoy being outdoors.