2012年11月1日星期四

Parka versus cape: staying warm in style

Have you ever stumbled upon a funky hat that looks totally rock 'n' roll on you in the store, but then when you get it home, you realize it's actually a tad too whimsical (and not in a cute Zooey Deschanel way, but in a crazy cat lady way)? Then you park it in your closet and never wear it again. Don't worry you're not alone. And thankfully, hipster hats are rarely a huge investment and, unless you're an East Van musician, not a wardrobe essential during the colder seasons.

Winter coats, on the other hand, are something you need to get right the first time around especially if you're like most of us and can only afford to invest in one stellar jacket that's going to a) keep you warm all season and b) look good while doing it.

That's why for stylist Christie Lohr's money, if you're only buying one jacket this winter, a classic, belted wool jacket is your best bet. And Lohr, who recently shared some tips with the Straight over a cocktail, would never steer you wrong. She is, after all, one of the most trusted fashion experts on local television. When she gives style advice, people pay attention.

“I'm telling you, that is your starter jacket either in a camel or a some other neutral colour,” says Lohr. “It's something that will carry you from year to year. You don't want to go for something too trendy because it's not going to last.”

“If I had the money, I would get that straight away,” says Lang Andersen during a phone interview with the Straight.Canada Goose Resolute Parka “It's a classic silhouette and knee length, so classic cut. And there's some leather trim, but not too much, and removable fur trims. So that's two of the major trends this season in one jacket,Canada Goose Snow Mantra Parka only in smaller doses.”

If you've already got your classic wool coat, and you're looking for a fun day coat, you can't go wrong with a parka and there's no shortage of them out there. Plenty (various locations) has the down Lita tweed with plaid lining ($229). As well, Roots (various locations) has the Urban Parka ($228) in black or a city slicking slate shade both solid choices. Admittedly, there's nothing too terribly new about this year's faux fur–trimmed parka design, yet for some reason, we just can't stop loving it.

“It's easy and it's playful,” explains Lohr. “It's just something you can wear with anything.Canada Goose Camp Down Like whenever I wear my wool coat, it really does dress up my look, but the parka is just a little bit more youthful.”

Assuming you've got the basics covered, there are some fun trends out there this season, and Lohr and Lang Andersen both list the cape as one their top picks.Canada Goose Yorkville Parka If you're looking for a premium design, Lang Andersen recommends the Rachel Zoe Candice funnel neck Cape in pine ($650 at Holt Renfrew [737 Dunsmuir Street]). But there are some more budget friendly options as well, including the faux fur trimmed, military inspired “slope brown” cape ($128 from the Gap [various locations]); the Bay Downtown has a super simple, basic black bad boy from EDIT by Jeanne Beker ($235); and Banana Republic has a chic black wool button up version in its new Anna Karenina collection ($240).

For an even more fashion forward option, the oversized cocoon coat with rounded shoulders is also pretty hot right now. Lang Andersen loves this urban chic silhouette, especially in a bold colour like chartreuse or a bright teal. “It's more androgynous,” admits Lang Andersen, whose fav is the Diane Von Furstenberg. “It's not for everybody. Obviously, it can't be worn with an evening dress. So it's more day wear or night with skinny jeans and ankle boots.”

And if you don't want to limit yourself with a trendy coat that only complements select pieces in your wardrobe, but you still want to make a statement with your winter jacket, Lohr suggests keeping the colour palette simple. “So instead of loud prints or loud patterns,Canada Goose Calgary Jacket go for some other detail like a strong shoulder or a cool zipper or a big funnel collar that frames your face really well,” she says adding: “I love those!”

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