Winter Coats

After several days of sub-zero temperatures, the fashionistas have definitively changed to their winter wardrobes. While they may all be opting for an overcoat or a fur, they still succeed in cultivating an urban allure sprinkled with a zest of sophistication.

The straight-cut coat may be ultra classic, but it would be a mistake to think it completely devoid of any fashion potential. A slight twist to the dress code should be enough to transform it into a casual chic jewel.

For example, a slightly oversized masculine overcoat with the sleeves rolled up, belted relatively high with a wide belt and topped off with a maxi scarf up will make it a little more feminine. Worn with a pair of skinny jeans and heeled ankle boots, this ensemble will create a striking, boyish yet elegant silhouette.

For those for whom the ¾ camel coat took over their closets since September, they can make it a bit less austere by wearing it with smart, sportswear-type pieces, e.g., a pair of sneakers, a thin, loose fitting sweatshirt and a pair of leather slims.

Next, the case of the fur coat whose popularity goes through the roof as the temperatures drop. Often found in second hand stores or inherited from a clothes-loving great aunt, the fur coat is a favorite of the fashionistas, regardless of the PETA activist fury it attracts.

Instead of treating it with that affectation that would definitely render it dowdy, they are wearing it over trendy or bohemian outfits, giving the fur a cozy feel completely devoid of arrogance.

Some, in schoolgirl style, might warm up their flowered mini skirts with a cozy jacket, whereas others might dare to wear a Cruella coat with a pair of slims and platform boots.

As for the urban bohemian, she might go trans-Siberian with a sensible, glossy ¾ coat, modern buckle-up boots, a chic black dress and a multi-colored scarf, topped off with a bag matching her boots.

In the same vein, the lovely Joanna from Harper's Bazaar chooses to match her olive coat enhanced with a maxi fur collar with a lightweight dress and a blazer. In doing so, she shows that the warmer the coat, the lighter the ensemble worn underneath can be, thus creating an interesting contrast.