Winter Wonderland Wear

Fashionab-Lee

Old Man Winter will be knocking on our doors for two more months. We dwell in the cold, mountain air. Can you think of a better excuse to buy a new winter coat?

The first thing to take into consideration when buying a coat is your body type. The coat should not accentuate any "flaws." For example, if you are very thin, don’t buy a long, shapeless coat, which will only make you appear thinner. Pick a patterned coat that has shape, such as one that flares out at the bottom. The flare and patterned cloth will create the illusion of curves. A single-breasted coat is best for voluptuous women and men. Try a slimming monochromatic coat in a beautiful color, like winter white, bright blue or deep red. Prints will work on you too — just steer clear of bulky fabric. If you’re vertically challenged, stay away from floor-length coats because they will swallow you. Knee-length coats, however, create the illusion of height.

When purchasing your coat, make sure that your arms can move freely. Try buying the coat a size larger so a sweater can be worn comfortably underneath on frigid days. Buttons should not be strained, nor should the material bulge in any way.

However, the fit of the coat isn’t the only thing that matters. The little details of the coat are equally important. A coat is an investment that you should be able to wear for years to come. I am a firm believer that there is a time and a place for different types of coats. For example, a cozy fleece is great for heading to the gym, walking to class or hitting the slopes, but a long peacoat is perfect for a chilly night out on the town.

As much as you love your winter coat, it shouldn’t be worn on a dinner date. Something more appropriate for ladies would be a longer coat in a rich fabric like brocade or bouclé, which instantly adds glamour to any outfit.

Guys, try a masculine leather jacket (preferably not Shaft-style). Leather jackets are making a comeback — hotties like Brad Pitt and Jake Gyllenhaal stay warm in theirs. If that look is too Harley-Davidson for you, try a wool tweed jacket instead.

Color also is important for coats. A boring coat may give someone Seasonal Affective Disorder faster than lack of sunshine. I love black; it’s a dependable, classic color, so I’m certainly not forbidding it for coats. Just make sure that your coat has something that makes it stand out. I suggest toggles, a sparkly brooch or a colorful scarf and hat.

Since spring lines are already appearing in stores, there is no better time than now to scoop up great coats at ridiculously low prices. Check out thegap.com, kennethcole.com, jcrew.com and victoriassecret.com.