His & Hers Winter Coat Guide

This time of year, my fall & winter coats see a lot of action. They are some of my favorite items in my closet I’ve collected over the years – several of which I’ve actually received as Christmas gifts. I thought it would be the perfect time to round up some of my most worn coats – and I had Ryan do the same! Today we’re each sharing our five most worn winter coats and why we love them! I hope this serves as a helpful guide if you are in the market for yourself or for someone else during the season ahead!

His Picks (by Ryan)

One of my favorite fashion quotes comes from the great Yves Saint Laurent. He said, “Fashions fade, style is eternal.” My personal style is comprised of urban style and classic American heritage and Workwear styles, while incorporating pieces from modern trends to keep it feeling fresh. I don’t really subscribe to the all latest trends because often times those end up looking dated a year later. I’m not sure if it’s here to stay, but right now most men’s wear is way oversized. I don’t necessarily believe everything needs to be fitted or tailored, but oversized has an expiration date and I’m hoping it’s sooner than later.

I’ve listed some of my favorite go to jackets/coats, some of which I’ve had for ten or more years. I don’t buy coats or jackets often, but when I do it’s important for me to buy a quality one that I might wear for at least 10 years if not several decades. I don’t think you have to go grab a $400 Barbour or a $900 Belstaff, but quality is something you shouldn’t ignore. Some of my favorite brands, like J.Crew, have very reasonably priced outerwear and they always run sales.

My go-to for just about any outfit is my wool overcoat. This is seriously one of the most versatile pieces you could own, and if I could only have one jacket it would be this. This is something that you can toss on with sweatpants and a hoodie on Saturday morning to go grab a bagel, you can wear it with an Oxford and denim to meet up with friends for drinks, or even throw it on over a full suit on your way to a formal event. Next, is a suede jacket. This one isn’t nearly as versatile but it’s warm, not hot, and can be worn with most casual outfits (button down and chinos), but you can also wear it with something slightly more put together like a shirt and tie. I’ve listed a leather jacket too because I tend to grab that one more often, mostly because suede is very difficult to clean and it can easily be ruined if it gets wet. The leather jacket can be worn in just about every situation a suede jacket would. North Carolina doesn’t get super cold often, but there have definitely been days where it can stay below freezing for extended amounts of time. For those days, I tend to grab something with a little extra warmth like a quilted jacket. But since it doesn’t really get that cold, from October through March a good barn coat would be all you need. The barn coat is much like the overcoat, but even more practical and versatile, though much more casual. The barn coat can be worn with a tee and denim, or over your work clothes when you go to the office. I didn’t list this because it’s not a go-to, but everyone needs a good active winter coat like something from North Face or Patagonia. They’re the easiest to pack, they are made to withstand elements, and it’s easy to toss on over any outfit whether it’s for a hike or to run out to do some last minute Christmas shopping.

Wool Overcoat

Suede Jacket

Leather Jacket

Barn Coat

Quilted Coat

Her Picks

While I’ve grown a rather large outerwear collection over the years, there are five styles I consistently find myself reaching for. Much like Ryan, I like classic styles and colors when it comes to outerwear so that I can have them for years to come.

My most worn coat has to be my classic camel coat. I splurged on mine about five years ago, and it is still one of my most favorite. I prefer a wrap style, but have also seen some more traditional button styles I love this year as well! This both my dress coat and everyday coat come winter. A sherpa/teddy coat is one I’ve added over the last couple of years, and I wear these with more casual looks. They are SO warm, and overall just so cozy. This is the exact sherpa peacoat I’m wearing in the photos above. These are also great to layer over dresses in the winter! A good parka is a must have! I wore one like this while we were in Big Bear on our honeymoon and it was a lifesaver. My puffer coat is definitely my most practical item in my closet. While not the most stylish, it’s what I’ll throw on for errands and morning coffee runs. Finally, my last staple is to invest in one statement coat. During the colder months, these are perfect for throwing over a pair of black denim and a black turtleneck to elevate the look. I love a plaid or check pattern!

Camel Coat

Sherpa/Teddy Coat

Parka

Puffer

Statement Coat