Sometimes we just need a raincoat.
A raincoat – or a choice of them – was never something in my wardrobe when I lived in the southern hemisphere. There was no “wardrobe of coats”. Even though it rains substantially, coats were never really part of my fashion repertoire. An umbrella would suffice with a driving life; here, when walking is very much a daily activity, wet weather gear is a must.
There’s no reason a raincoat can’t look great and be flattering. So many make me feel as if I am trussed up in a kitchen tidy bag – forget that – I want some shape to my raincoat and plenty of pockets. Waterproof gear tends to be warm so I want something to work when I’m layered up. Comfort is important too as there is nothing worse than not being able to move freely when battling the weather.
Outerwear doesn’t need to feel drab but it is something that needs to be varied. They are the essential pieces I have the most of. No two days are ever alike and no two months either. Life has to go on in the belting rain or the drizzle so we may as well look decent navigating our outside life.
Like all coats, there are zillions of decisions to make when it comes to the style.
Belted? Length? Colour? Fabric? Weight?
I don’t want to feel weighed down and I don’t mind the option of a belt but I rarely wear one unless it’s a trench coat. Length of a raincoat is dependent on what I’m wearing beneath – so mid-thigh and knee-length is my favourite.
How can a raincoat look other than a cover-up for a bedraggled mess?
Just because it’s waterproof doesn’t mean it can’t look fabulous.
Think about the style and find a coat to suit your shape. I’m more pear than straight up and down so I like a little flare from the waist down.
The collar and hood are important and also provides a frame for the face and whatever is worn underneath.
Accessorise – bad weather doesn’t mean we can’t add a scarf, a bracelet or a vibrant shade underneath.
Let the footwear shine – wear your lace-ups or combats, a new pair of sneakers. Get the opaque tights out.
Add a colourful tote. Love this divine colour.
Add a hat or woollen cap if a hood is not going to work. I wear the hood mostly as it’s practical and means I’m not struggling with an umbrella.
And most importantly – get outside and move about despite the rain. That’s why we need an incentive. xv
Rainy Day Favourites
via spiga think jungle || cole haan signature black || the north face in new taupe green || avec less filles in military || the north face simplicity
feeling more of the “flower power” today?
floral embroidered raincoat by 4 moncler simone rocha
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