It’s that time of the year again, where we all pull out our winter’s coziest coats from storage! If you’ve ever pulled out your coats, only to realize you have no idea how to freshen them up for the new season, look no further! This is your 101 guide on coast to coast essential coats, washing winter coats and how to take care of them.
How do you buy the perfect coat? To build a successful coat wardrobe, you have to start with the why. Why do you need a coat? For that chilled-to-the-bone winter air of NYC? For the mild winter mornings in LA? For business trips across the country? For that special night out so you don’t freeze in your dress? The reality is that you can’t solve every situation with one coat.
If you’re in NYC, chances are you need a coat that can withstand layering. And if you’re in sunny Los Angeles, you’re going to need something notably lighter. Not only is weather a factor, but your needs can change based on the occasion as well!
We’re going to show you a few of our favorite basic coat styles that cover the most common needs from coast to coast, and how to wash winter coats, maintain their quality and keep them clean.
Want travel ready outfits for work, vacation outfits or an update to your winter wardrobe basics? Wardrobe styling services by Meg Gallagher, Personal Stylist Los Angeles can be found here!
The All-Purpose Oversized Wool Coat
A true essential, this oversized wool coat is perfect for a commuter’s NYC layers with it’s wide armholes and chic design. We recommend purchasing this piece in basic colors to extend the wearability. Stick to black, camel, navy, maroon, olive or cream before venturing into check patterns or statement colors.
How to Care For a Wool Jacket
-Use a lint roller to clean a coat after daily wear before hanging the piece in your closet.
-When there’s a spill on your jacket, blot the spot and do not rub it! The idea is to soak up the spill and not spread it further.
-Always hang your coat on a sturdy hanger with ample space to keep the weight of the coat from stretching the shoulder areas. If packed too tightly with other items, your coat could become crumpled.
-Make sure to dry clean winter coat at the end of the season and hang in a garment bag to prevent insects from infesting the wool.
The Belted Trench & Wrap Coat
Best serving the fall and spring climate of San Francisco and New York, these trending coat styles create a flattering shape like no other! We love duster-trench hybrids for Los Angeles that provide all the style without the rainy disposition. The wrap coat is a chic go-to for NYC and LA evenings out, desk-to-dinners, alfresco date nights and any other occasion you need a cozy-yet-elegant top layer.
How to Care For Waterproof Trench Coats
-Although care for a trench largely depends on what the piece is made out of, most trenches (Unless they are leather) are much more machine-wash friendly than other coat alternatives. Even still, it is best to dry-clean and spot clean when possible.
-If you need to clean your waterproof jacket as well as reproofing, try this product.
How to Care for Leather Trench Coats
-Never leave your jacket folded for a long period of time, as this can encourage creases and cracks in the leather.
-Keep your jacket away from heat sources like sunlight, ironing and steam to avoid the material becoming brittle.
-Keep your jacket DRY! No Rain! If your coat does get wet, leave it out on a hanger to dry.
-Condition your leather to prolong it’s lifespan and prevent cracking.
How to Care for Faux Leather (Vegan Leather, Pleather) Trench Coats
-While there are different forms of faux leather, there are a few general rules of thumb to keep the material from cracking and distorting.
-Avoid machine washing to maintain the integrity of your coat. Mix liquid dish detergent with warm water, and use a soft bristle brush to hand-scrub your garment and then rinse with cold water. Hang garment to dry to avoid distortion of the coat.
-Just need to freshen up your coat without washing it? Freshen between washes by spritzing with The Laundress Delicate Spray – a versatile formula for cleaning your faux leather that has antibacterial properties, which adds scent while removing odor.
The Cozy Puffer Coat
This is a great coat for travel that accounts for rain, snow, and proper coziness. For NYC, invest in a down puffer jacket. For Los Angeles, opt for a lightweight alternative.
How to Care For a Down Jacket
-Aim to wash this piece 1-2 times a year and spot treat when needed. Excessive washing can cause wear and tear!
-Avoid compressing your jacket by squishing it in a backpack or travel suitcase. If too compressed, give it a low-heat tumble in the dryer and hang it up as soon as possible.
-Keep this piece from getting soaked, as it takes a LOT of time to dry!
-Feathers sticking out of your jacket? Don’t pull them out – push them back in! See these patching instructions by rei.com.
The Going Out Coat
These are the coats that are fashion forward with the sole purpose of adding a fabulous top layer to your ensemble. Great for events, nights out and statement outfits!
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