Welcome to day 23 of the “New Year New You” Challenge, which I am hosting with Ceri from Fabafterfifty.co.uk. (although you don’t have to be over 50 to join in!), and tomorrow’s challenge is to “Wear a statement coat.”
We are posting each challenge the evening before so that you have time to prepare your outfit/ your challenge ahead of time.
New Year New You Challenge 2021 : Wear a statement coat
As the lockdown/ social distancing continues to limit our activities to outside, even in the winter, this is the time to invest in some eye-catching outerwear, and a statement coat will instantly elevate your look.
Whilst we are all dreaming of Spring sunshine (and indoor social events!), we still have plenty of winter ahead of us, so a coat is an essential wardrobe piece at this time. And since, it’s a non-negotiable part of your dress code, let’s make a statement with it!
Here are a few reasons why a statement coat is a great investment:
- the cost per wear is relatively low, as although you wear different tops, dresses, etc., you often wear the same coat.
- then there is the obvious practical benefit of keeping you warm and cozy
- a statement coat means you always look chic throughout the winter season, at outdoor social gatherings, walking the dog. etc.
- And it’s a really quick and easy way to instantly elevate your look. No matter what you are wearing underneath, throwing a fabulous coat over the top will hide any number of fashion faux pas!
- the right coat can be a total game-changer when it comes to looking your best for minimal effort.
Remember that the first thing someone will see when you walk past them/ walk into a room is your coat so make sure that yours is creating a good first impression. When you put on a stunning coat, you can get away with wearing practically anything underneath and still look chic and stylish.
There are so many options out there, and you probably already have some great coats in your wardrobe, so today’s challenge is nailing how to wear a statement coat.
How to wear a statement coat
So, you have probably seen statement coats everywhere from unusual prints, to bright colours, faux fur, teddy coats and plaid patterns.
Maybe you have thought about investing in one, but you aren’t sure how to wear a statement coat or if it would work with your existing wardrobe. Maybe you are put off by the array of bright colours and patterns, but you should definitely have at least one statement coat in your wardrobe and here are some tips for how to wear one.
Add a pop of colour to a monochrome look.
A statement coat doesn’t work with everything in your wardrobe, but it is a perfect foil for a neutral outfit that won’t “compete” with the coat.
- Pair it with a little black dress (see here for LBD styling), or a black pencil skirt and sweater to instantly take your look to the next level.
- Alternatively, a colorful coat will look amazing with creams, tans, grey and any other neutral colours
- Pair it with “winter whites”, for example pop it over white jeans and a white top for effortlessly chic style.
If you don’t normally wear a lot of bright colours, a vibrant coat is a quick and easy way to try out a more colourful look without committing to wearing colour all day!
And, by now, you know my obsession with belts, so, of course, I added a belt to make the look more chic and highlight my figure.
Have fun with prints and patterns
Plaid is an obvious choice for Fall/ Winter, and houndstooth check, such as this Zara coat, (on sale from 20/01) also makes a great statement without being overwhelming.
If you want to make more of a statement, try a plaid coat in bright rainbow colours, or try a bold floral print.
And, of course, animal print is always a fun idea!
Try Shearling
A shaggy shearling coat is the next best thing to snuggling up in a cozy plaid on the couch.
You can find them in a wide range of colours, so try a bright colour that is a bit out of your comfort zone for maximum impact.
Opt for the classic trench
You can never go wrong with a classic trench coat.
Everyone in the world should have a trench coat, and there should be a trench coat for everyone in the world. It does not matter your age; it doesn’t matter your gender.
Angela Ahrendts
But, instead of the classic beige trench, opt for a slightly edgier version:
- maybe consider adding some colour – emerald green and navy trenches make more of a statement, whilst still remaining classic and classy
- look for leather (or other unusual) details, for example, leather cuffs or lapels
- look for a trench in an unusual print
Try a puffer jacket, but make it fun!
I tend to avoid puffer jackets, as I feel they don’t really flatter my body shape. If you have the same problem, then I would recommend trying a belted version to create a more streamlined shape.
If you love puffer jackets, then try a metallic puffer, which will make even the most boring, neutral outfit look edgy and modern.
Here are a few more of my favourite picks. Just click on the image to shop the post.
Lastly, just have some fun with it, and experiment with statement coats that flatter your shape and your coloring.
The aim of this challenge is to stay positive and fabulous as we start the year in lockdown again and to experiment and have fun with your wardrobe, by wearing what you already own to put together new outfits.
If you want some tips on coping with lockdown, have a look here.
It’s about putting together what you own in new ways and shaking you out of your style rut. So, just have some fun with it!
I hope you enjoyed these tips for how to wear a statement coat and don’t hesitate to look at more of our style tips.
You look really great with the red one!
Thanks Angie 😊
A statement coat is such a good investment! Your coats are gorgeous and I love them belted!
Jill – Doused in Pink
Thanks Jill! I love wearing belts, as you might have noticed ! xoxo
Pretty red coat ❤
Thank you 🙂
I love a statement coat! Your bright red version is so gorgeous!
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
Thanks Ashley x
With print, faux fur or with a pop of color statements colors are always the best and they can highlight any looks !
xx
Margot
Yes, and a coat is the first thing people notice when you’re out xoxo
Too right! I purchased a red coat today and felt really great finding it, in M&S, a couple of sizes too big however I like that as I can layer things underneath.
Great post and so chic!
Laura xo
http://www.shehearts.net
Thank you Laura! There’s something about a red coat that makes you feel glamorous and confident xoxo
You can’t go wrong with a good statement coats during Winter. THey’re for sure a fashion must!
Totally agree Rach! x
I love statement coats! You look amazing in red Julia!
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Thank you so much Kathrine x
I like to add statement belt to my blazer and/or coat too!
Admire how you styled the long red coat though <3
xoxo,
|CHELSHEAFLO|
Thanks so much Chelshea xoxo
Wonderful tips! You look fabulous in the red coat!
xoxo
Lovely
http://www.mynameislovely.com
Thanks so much Lovely! I always feel confident and glamorous in red xo
I am with you Julia. In fact, I probably only have statement jackets because I figure why not??
Yet I rarely wear them with a belt. What a great idea.
XOOX
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
I love wearing them with a belt, but not every time! xoxo
Ah yes one does need to be a bit brave to wear a statement coat. I wore an over-sized long pink teddy coat to FW and I got a lot of looks on the train lol but after posing in the middle of traffic on a busy street in NYC it does not phase me anymore I say go for it!
Allie of
http://www.allienyc.com
I agree Allie! Just go for it!