Chill Chasers

by Sharon Mosley

The big chill is on its way, and that means doing a coat check. Many of us have invested in more than one coat ... after all, we wear coats day in and night out for a couple of months—so why be boring? Make a fashion statement! Here are some great ways to chase away the chills and cover up in style this season:

Think pink. This pastel hue is one of the freshest ways to perk up your outerwear for the season ahead. Often thought of as a spring color, pastel pink stands out in a crowd of dark neutrals. A blush pink wool wrap coat accessorized with sugary, sparkly jewelry gives dull winter dressing a perfect punch.

Think fuzzy and shaggy. Whether it’s faux fur, luxurious shearling or just plush fleece, the cozy coat is a winner this season. For warmer weather, a coat trimmed with a fur collar is a great pick; for colder climates, check out coats detailed with shearling.

Think vests. The sleeveless jacket that morphs into a coat in nubby tweeds and sweatery knits is one of the best ways to top it all off and add an extra special layer to everyday basics. In shorter faux fur versions, it adds funky charm.

Think tailored. If you don’t have one of these fashion workhorses in your coat wardrobe, it’s time to invest in one. There’s a wide selection of these structured coats out there ... from menswear double-breasted maxis to classic camel wraps, these outerwear options will be your go-to cover-ups for any occasion.

Think suede and leather. No longer stiff and stuffy, suede and leather have softened up their image and will instantly amp up the “cool” factor in your wardrobe. Add a touch of tough chic with a black leather bomber jacket, or a little intrigue with a leather wrap trench coat.

Think swing. With long and lean mini-skirts and flared pants, the swing coat is a retro-inspired silhouette that adds a vintage feeling to your wardrobe. You might even be lucky enough to score a timeless number online or at your favorite vintage store. Tip: look for animal print.

Think sweater blanket. What better way to wrap yourself up this winter than in a stylish swath of wooly warmth? These coats get a playful touch in abstract patterns and colorful plaids—casual comfort at its best.

Think military. Another classic statement for outerwear, the military-inspired coat is an attention-getting outerwear trend marching into winter in admiral-style coats and jackets. And of course, the forever-popular trench coats and pea coats will always be classic chill chasers.

Think capes. These are fashion superheroes on the coat scene this fall. If you like a little drama in your life, then you’ll love all the unique capes and ponchos that are swirling around out there. Throw one of these on over anything in your closet—from jeans to cocktail dresses—and rescue your winter wardrobe from being basic and boring. Don’t be afraid to take flight and make a style statement.

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association. Lost Ink pink wool coat with faux fur collar available at Asos.com.