The Triangle

Issue date: 1/30/09 Section: Arts & Entertainment

Media Credit: Karl Kuchs

Let's face it - Philadelphia isn't the warmest or driest place on the planet. Choosing outerwear to keep you warm is a must when attending school here. But why not look great while bracing yourself against the elements?

Coats have come a long way since the practical black or camel cashmere piece. You can never go wrong with function, but this season, push some glamour with a taste of some new shades, shapes and textures.

For women as well as men, there are many different options for winter coats.

Cocoon coats appeal to a wide range of women because of the size-less component and is not age restricted.

The volume in the coat accentuates the slender legs that emerge from the bottom. For added warmth and style, pick a cocoon coat with fur circling the sleeves or collar.

The most fashionable look for a shapelier appearance is the belted jacket. Recently, theatrical metal corsets and lush belts cinch the waist to create true femininity. Many of these jackets come in bright colors such as Kelly green, magenta, maroon, purple and teal.

These color trends are overtly feminine, youthful, and guaranteed to brighten up any stormy day. Winter white is an outerwear trend that is used in many jacket styles; the soft white shade is favorable for many body types.

Military inspired jackets are a consistently flattering classic for men and women.

The uniform look can make anyone stand tall, and brass buttons are often used to play up the line of the body. Military jackets can come in many lengths including cropped to mid-thigh length.

If you are trying to mask hips, an A-line jacket is suitable for you. These jackets have skirts around the waist that create gathered fullness from the top of the waist to the end of the jacket. Often, A-line jackets are trimmed with fur and have stylish buttons to keep you bundled up.

Of course, we are all familiar with the puffy jacket. Even though these jackets can make some look like the "Michelin Man," they are incredibly warm. These traditional jackets are usually filled with down feathers and quilted to give a full style. Many companies have designed women's puffy jackets that cinch at the waist to create a more ideal shape.

Men's puffy jackets are considered very casual and often used for skiing or other winter weather activities. Please, never wear a puffy ski coat over tailored clothing - this is clearly a fashion faux pas.

Continued...

Page 1 of 2 next >

Article Tools