just jackets and cool coats

We always seem to rush winter away.  And I must say, I'm ok with that.  I love warm weather, plenty of sunshine, being outside, and an abundance of fresh fruits, flowers, and long, warm summer nights.  For me, that lull between winter and spring is always a hard time for dressing.  I'm desperate for the brighter, warmer colors and freer fabrics we usually see in spring, but hate being unprepared for those still-looming cold, dreary days of wintertime. I often end up in shed-able layers and armed with extra accessories for warmth and winter weather protection.  Put an extra spring in your step with these crazy cool coats.  Your outwear is more than just a jacket when it's well edited, well tailored, and packed full of style.

Filson's Short Lined Cruiser is a water-repellent Tin Cloth jacket that's fully lined with Cover Cloth and has a hip-length hem for mobility.  Think fashion + function with style + class. US$325 at Filson and other fine retailers.

Barbour's iconic motorcycle jacket, the International, was created in 1936 and became the biker jacket of choice through the 50s, 60s and 70s.

Staying true to that heritage, the International Original is constructed in a heavyweight 8oz Sylkoil waxed cotton, offering a stylish matte finish and road-ready protection. Its robust front zip sits beneath a stud-fastening storm fly front, and the funnel collar is lined with corduroy for insulation and a luxurious feel against the skin. The lightweight cotton lining carries the signature Barbour tartan and is studded to take the optional Warm Pile Lining, for added versatility.

Traditional biker jacket details include the buckle-fastening throat strap, adjustable studded cuffs, a stiffened waist belt and the trademark four studded pockets - one of which is the authentic slanted map pocket, designed to give easy access while riding. Part of the World Tour collection, the International Original is available in classic Black with the infamous Barbour International logo to the chest.
 

 

Brunello Cuccinelli is simply sublime.  The design, the fabrics, the construction, I can't get enough or say enough good things.  The hooded parka above features Stretch natté cotton with monili detail and is made in Italia.  The jacket below takes the best of a techno-ski coat and a blazer, is made of Nylon outerwear with Thermore® padding, and also made in Italia. 

Ladies, if you don't already own a motorcycle jacket, buy one now.  It's the perfect way to throw some edge to your elegant evenings over a dress, or to revv up your jeans and plain white t.  Pick a tailored fit with long, lean arms.  The faux leather version below is a very accessible US$98 at from topshop at Nordstrom.

Influenced by car coats from the 1930s, the jacket below is fully lined design is made from Italian full-grain cowhide and heavily distressed for a vintage-inspired appearance, by RRL.  

Nothing is more cozy or comfy than cashmere.  It's the ultimate luxury, like 360 Cashmere's Eloise Sweater.  Add a bit of flirty fringe and you've got your new go-to for any chilly day.  The long, asymmetrical front is super flattering; the bold stripes add a sporty flair.  100% cashmere.  100% cool.  Available at modelcitizen. 

How do you stay warm and cheery?

unexpected retail surprises

Tailoring, meaningful details, and nice fabrics.  Fine fragrances and quality ingredients.  These two groupings of descriptions are usually reserved for luxury brands.  Over the last few years, some companies have tried their hands at elevated products - Abercrombie & Fitch offered Ruehl No. 925 for nearly 5 years, while American Eagle spun their classier, grown up Martin + Osa.  Both brands targeted the "after college crowd" and featured luxe leathers, tailored fits, and fine fabrics, but neither found traction in the marketplace.

Lately I've noticed some brands stepping up their game.  While the products aren't competing with what luxury houses stock, they are definitely stepping up their game and capturing my interest.  Here's a few that I'm really loving:

-- Bath & Body Works features a pocket collection from NYC's famed C.O. Bigelow apothecary.  I'm loving their Elixir White - crisp with citrus notes of bergamot, grapefruit, and mandarin orange, with a peppery, spicy twist.  Just a tiny bit goes a long way, making mounds of suds and leaving behind just a hint of fresh fragrance without overpowering.  And at only US$10 a tube, what's not to love?!  Pairs really well with Tom Ford's Venetian Bergamot or Oud Wood.

-- American Eagle offers a surprisingly beautiful and well done jacket in their AEO Cotton Parka, and at just US$199 (with discounts and offers featured throughout the Christmas season), I couldn't be more impressed.  Waxed cotton canvas, a treatment usually seen in luxe brands like Filson and Barbour, with military inspired patch pockets, quilted lining and interior pockets, function storm cuffs, and both zippered and button closures, this jacket is sure to keep you warm.  The faux fur lining is eco conscious and removable as well.  Even better than the price - it's machine washable and easy to care for.  

-- Target and Whole Foods (and many other places) offer Mrs. Meyer's candles, and I'm loving the Crisp Iowa Pine.  Imagine fresh cut Christmas tree, with a dash of clove and cedar - so fresh, so clean, and perfectly Christmas.  All of Mrs. Meyer's candles are soy based, burning cleanly for up to 25 hours.  And at just under US$7, you can afford to burn them throughout the day.  I love popping a candle into a gift basket for any occasion, or even on it's own as a small thank you token.

Quality doesn't have to break the bank.  What're some affordable products you're loving at the moment?

proper vintage

Steve McQueen is undeniably a style icon. Guys wanted to be him, women wanted to be with him. Masculine. Athletic. Tailored. Street chic. Effortless. Qualities all the best designers aim to incorporate.

I can't get enough of this Barbour jacket from J.Crew. I've always loved pieces with character, where authentic vintage inspiration is done properly with a modern twist.


Rugged enough for the British Royal Army and cool enough for Steve McQueen, the International was first designed back in 1936 and has been worn by serious motorcyclists and easy riders ever since. Now, in celebration of its 75th anniversary, the original is back, faithfully replicated in the authentic A7 block with the original coloring and 8-ounce Sylkoil waxed cotton, designed to protect against foul weather and high winds, no matter what your speed. True-to-tradition details include an authentically distressed finish, aged snaps, a Union Jack-team embroidered badge and an enamel pin, as well as a full ancient tartan lining for a warm and easy fit. Available in extremely limited numbers, and you'll only find it here at J.Crew. Standing collar with buckle closure. Snap closure. Removable self belt. Front and back patch pockets. Adjustable snaps at cuffs. A Collector's Item. Made in England. Spot clean. $US 849.

Paired with your favourite denim and tshirt for a quick drink, or over gray wool trousers and a button down dress shirt, this jacket emits serious style.