Coat Tales

Luxe but minimal is the hallmark of The Row’s style. This sleek coat is from the line’s 2015 fall runway.

From Chanel’s 2015 fall collection, an oversize colorful plaid coat makes a generous topper.

Bright green reefer-style coat from Dior fall 2015 runway collection.

Donna Karan’s oversize military-style coat in olive drab with epaulets, belt and relaxed fit. From the designer’s fall 2015 runway collection.

Theory’s Bolton Kenshon coat tweaks the traditional winter pea coat with pocket placement and length. $795, theory.com.

Uniqlo’s Ultra Light Down Long Coat ($129.90, uniqlo.com) wraps you up all the way to your legs and keeps you dry, too. Which is why they sell out quickly.

Military touches never go out of style. Zara’s Extra Long Coat, $249, zara.com.

Checked wool-blend coat in a slightly slouchy silhouette, belted at the waist for definition. Patch pockets for functionality. $190, us.topshop.com.

A cape-style shawl collar adds interest to Fleurette’s Wrap Maxi Cloak Coat in ultra-luxurious Loro Piana wool. $1,375, neimanmarcus.com.

Always cold? This Canada Goose Mystique parka is meant to withstand truly frigid temperatures (think minus 25 degrees and below). If it warms up, the hood is removable, as is the coyote fur ruff. $845, canada-goose.com.

Brighten up winter in this raised, zig-zag pattern Asa Coat from Rachel Comey with stylish shawl lapels and big flap pockets. $897, shop bop.com.

A refreshing change from the same old black, gray and navy. Opt for this form-fitting, double-breasted coat in dark green boiled wool with notched lapels from Carven. $982, matches fashion.com.

IF THIS FABULOUS FALL weather means you’ve been putting off your seasonal wardrobe refresh, we can hardly blame you. But we have it on good authority that, yes, winter is coming.  And if WTOP’s meteorologist is correct in his predictions, there will be more snow in D.C. this year than last. So, before the onset of another polar vortex, our advice is to make time to upgrade your cold-weather staples. Especially, that mother of all basics – the winter coat.

Furthermore, this season, we surmise, in deference to frigid winters past, top designers like Raf Simons (formerly at Dior), Donna Karan and Karl Lagerfeld have decided to drop hemlines below the knee and even lower in some cases, giving previously exposed legs a lot more protection from the elements, not to mention covering the hems of skirts and dresses.

Called dusters, maxi coats or great coats, they come in bright colors, patterns and fabrics, including down and shearling and faux and real fur for the warmest options. And in a range of styles (hooded, collared, double-breasted, tie-waist) and price points.

See the photos above for some we have our eye on.

–Janet Kelly