Buying an overcoat can be tricky if you don’t know anything about the fabric, color, fit or quality. But don’t worry, we’ve created this guide to help you select the right men’s overcoat.
Topcoat, Overcoat, and Greatcoat
- Let’s begin by explaining the difference between a topcoat, an overcoat, and a greatcoat.
- If you’re unaware of the difference between these 3 items, it could be confusing.
- An overcoat is a long coat designed to be worn over other clothing. Usually, the length is below the knee.
- A topcoat is an overcoat of a lightweight material. This is the trench coat we’re talking about.
- A greatcoat (or watch coat) is a large, bulky overcoat that comes from the military.
How to Choose an Overcoat? A Comprehensive Men’s Guide to Picking the Best Overcoat
A good overcoat can easily dress up a suit and give you a smarter look instantly.
But what is a good overcoat, anyway? And how do you choose the best overcoat for yourself? Here are some useful shopping tips on how to choose a men’s overcoat.
Men’s Overcoat Buying Tips
- How long should an overcoat be
- Choose the right fabric
- Pick the right weight based on the climate.
- How to choose an overcoat that fits
- Pay attention to the overcoat’s sleeve length
- Do invest in a good-quality overcoat
- Single-breasted vs. double-breasted
- Black overcoat
- Overcoat & workout outfits don’t mix
- Accessorize
Understand the Length – how long should an overcoat be?
Traditionally, an overcoat should fall below the knee, but if you’re a shorter man, you should always opt for a knee-length or shorter overcoat. This will help lengthen the torso and add height. If you’re on the tall side, go for an overcoat that hits the knee or longer. There are some cropped versions of overcoats, but remember, a short-length overcoat might not be a good option for extreme weather conditions, as it only covers half of your body.
Choose the Right Fabric – the fabric used determines the lifespan of an overcoat.
Always choose natural fibres such as cashmere or wool, or alpaca, as this material is more durable. The best option is an overcoat made with 100% wool because it’s heavy, not too expensive, water-resistant, and it keeps you warm.
Pick the Right Weight Based on Climate.
Once you’ve selected the fabric, keep in mind that the weight of the fabric is an important factor too. Use heavy fabrics for an overcoat, as they do not wrinkle easily and will keep you warmer. For winter in New York, an overcoat of 17 – 20 ounces or 480 – 570 grams is just right.
Remember the Fit – the best-looking overcoat is the one that fits you the most
First, you have to understand how you are going to wear the overcoat. If you are going to wear it with a couple of layers underneath, or just one layer underneath. Ideally, you want enough room in your overcoat if you’re planning on wearing a few layers underneath. If it is only one layer underneath, be sure that the coat fits you in the most flattering way, and it is not too baggy, or it will make you look heavier.
Pay Attention to the Overcoat’s Sleeve Length
The sleeves should be long enough to cover the cufflinks of your shirt, but not so long that you look like you’re wearing someone else’s coat. After wearing an overcoat, you shouldn’t show your shirt cuffs like you would with a regular office suit. Your overcoat should reach down to the beginning of your thumb and cover your whole jacket so that no cold air will be sneaked into your body.
If you’re wearing a watch, the sleeves should cover it partially or completely. If you can see your watch (and hopefully not your forearms), then your overcoat is poorly fitted. Personally, I would suggest full coverage of your watch to protect it from the elements (snow, blizzard, drizzle, rain, you name it). If you are looking for watches, check out these cool watches for men from Nordgreen.
Do Invest in a Good Quality Overcoat
As usual, we would ask our readers to consider quality before price. The reasons are obvious, as a good quality overcoat can last longer and save you money on buying it again every winter.
Single-Breasted vs. Double-Breasted – which is the more trendy design today?
The single-breasted overcoat is the norm out there, but the market now has the double-breasted option that is going to make you stand out from the crowd. In addition to that, double-breasted is predicted to be warmer because they have two layers of fabric on top of each other, versus a single-breasted coat, which only has one layer.
Black Overcoat…Seriously?
If your office suits are mostly black or dark grey, don’t wear a black overcoat, as it gets way too boring when everyone out there also wears the same color as you. Consider other colours like tan, beige, camel or maybe light grey. It will create some color contrast with your dark suit and make your style more stunning.
Fashion Taboo: Overcoat & Workout Attire Are Not Friends
If you pair the overcoat with jogger pants or a gym tank top, then it definitely looks quite weird. This combination is not a good one. Instead, if you want to get some workout looks during winter, combine it with a quilted jacket or a hoodie.
Nail the Look with Extra Accessories
Overcoats are versatile. There are not many accessories that will not go well with it. There are some accessories to wear with an overcoat. For example, a scarf to lighten your outfit and add some extra warmth when winter days get harsh; leather gloves or a fedora hat; and of course wristwatches go well under the sleeve of your overcoat. If you’re feeling a little bit crafty, you could even make your own smart pocket watch to hang from the buttonhole of your coat.
And small accessories like custom enamel pins can really tie your whole look together. I heard a pro enamel pin maker say, “I Don’t Wear Pins, I Wear Attitude.” More and more fashion lovers nowadays choose these delicate accessories to fully express their personality.
These accessories are not required, but wearing them will add some points to your overall look.
Overcoat Outfit Ideas for Men – Gallery
Here we have collected 60 pictures to show you how men style the overcoat this winter. If you’re on mobile, tap the next button or slide left with your finger.
