You’ll get no arguments from the most fervent fashion detractor. A coat in Chicago is a necessity. In fact, some women will tell you they have a wardrobe of winter coats — and they don’t mean just the weekend parka and the trusted “go to work” coat. This fall there are as many choices in a coat as there are fashion trends. Here’s what to look for:
Long coats, as usual, but especially good to wear with pants and the new longer skirts.
Ethnic styles in patterned fabrics that wrap or drape the body.
Fur trim at collar, cuffs or lapels.
Ensemble coats meant to match what’s worn underneath.
Coats in unexpected colors such as red, yellow or lavender, better to go with all that gray this year.
Trusted shearling.
The unlined coat, which can be layered over another coat or a sweater.
Next step: Assess your coat wardrobe and decide to add something special — a style you don’t have. Trust us. The way fashion is going these days — so many choices that you can create your style and be in style — you’ll have it for years.
