The peacoat: a timeless, universal wardrobe staple. It’s the classic navy blue coat that has consistently remained a favourite among women and men alike. Originally designed for naval officers, the peacoat’s design has held its own over the years, incorporating aspects such as warmth, style and custom fit into its build. This coat has become a signature piece in any wardrobe due to its adaptability and versatility. In this article, let’s delve into how to style a peacoat to look both classic and trendy.
What Makes a Peacoat Stand Out?
The peacoat is a wool coat that has been associated with naval tradition for over a century. It stands out for its unique features, such as its wide collar, double-breasted front, and buttons crafted to resist harsh weather conditions.
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The fabric is usually wool, ensuring warmth during colder months. Its navy blue colour, also known as ‘pea’ blue, gives it a distinct look, making it a versatile addition to any outfit. The buttons, typically large and black, add to the aesthetic appeal while still maintaining the coat’s practicality.
Another key aspect of a peacoat is its custom fit. Unlike other coats and jackets, the peacoat is designed to fit snugly, offering you not just warmth but also a sleek silhouette.
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The Classic Peacoat Look
When it comes to styling your peacoat for a classic look, simplicity is key. This is where the coat’s navy blue colour shines as it pairs well with virtually everything.
The most traditional way to wear a peacoat is with a crisp white shirt and black trousers. Throw in a pair of shiny leather shoes, and you have a timelessly sophisticated outfit. For women, a pair of black heels adds an extra layer of finesse.
Alternatively, you can pair your peacoat with a suit for an elegant and formal look. Whether it’s a business meeting or a formal gathering, a peacoat over a suit ensures you look sharp and put-together. Remember, the snug fit of the peacoat allows it to sit nicely over a suit without looking bulky.
The Trendy Peacoat Look
Despite its classic design, the peacoat is versatile enough to be styled in trendy ways to suit modern fashion sensibilities. The key to achieving this look lies in experimenting with colours, patterns and accessories.
Pair your peacoat with a colourful scarf or a bold patterned sweater for a pop of colour. Wear it with ripped jeans or leather pants for an edgy look. Layer it over a hoodie or a sweatshirt for a casual and relaxed look.
For women, pairing a peacoat with a midi skirt, tights, and ankle boots can create a chic, feminine look. Another stylish trend is tying a belt around the waist of the peacoat to accentuate the waistline and add a fashionable twist to the classic design.
The Peacoat for All Seasons
Despite its heavy wool fabric, a peacoat can be styled for all seasons. In the winter, it offers the perfect blend of style and comfort. But even in the warmer months, the peacoat can be a stylish armour against chilly evenings or unexpected weather changes.
In spring, wear your peacoat over a light sweater or a long-sleeved shirt. For a more casual look, pair it with jeans and sneakers. During summer evenings or slightly colder days, wearing a peacoat over a dress or a light top can add a stylish touch while keep you warm.
Customizing Your Peacoat
One of the greatest appeals of the peacoat is its potential for customization. You can add personal touches to your coat to reflect your unique style.
You could replace the buttons with ones in a different colour or shape. Another popular customization is adding patches or embroidery to the coat. For a more subtle approach, consider altering the length of the coat or adding a liner for added warmth.
In essence, a peacoat is a versatile, timeless piece that can be worn in countless ways. Whether you prefer a classic or trendy look, this coat will always be a statement piece in your wardrobe.
The Evolution of the Peacoat
The design of the peacoat has evolved over time to adapt to different fashion trends and climates. The double-breasted design, initially aimed at providing extra warmth, has also become a style statement that sets it apart from other coat types like the trench coat. The wide collar, originally designed to protect against harsh winds, is now a distinguishable feature of the peacoat, adding a bold touch to any outfit.
While the traditional peacoat is navy blue, it now comes in various colours to suit different preferences. Neutral colours such as black, grey, and beige are popular choices for a versatile wardrobe. For those looking for a pop of colour, peacoats are also available in vibrant hues like red, green, and yellow.
One of the latest trends is the wool blend peacoat. Combining wool with fabrics like cashmere or polyester, these pea coats provide the warmth of wool and the softness or durability of the other fabric. For instance, a wool cashmere blend peacoat offers luxe warmth with a buttery soft feel.
Designers like Billy Reid have taken the peacoat a step further by introducing innovative features like leather undercollars and branded horn buttons, making the peacoat a high fashion item.
The Peacoat: A Timeless Investment
Investing in a well-made peacoat is a smart fashion decision. It is not just a purchase; it is an investment in a timeless piece that will serve you for years to come.
A classic peacoat is made from heavyweight Melton wool, a tightly woven wool fabric that is wind-resistant and warm. It is a high-quality material that ensures the longevity of the coat. A peacoat navy in colour or in a neutral shade like black or grey, can adapt to changing trends and will always be a staple in your wardrobe.
The double-breasted coat design, in addition to providing extra warmth, creates a flattering silhouette that suits all body types. And, the wide collar can be styled in multiple ways – buttoned up for warmth or folded down for style.
When buying a peacoat, ensure it fits well. It should be snug but not too tight, allowing room for layering. The sleeves should end at the wrist and the coat length should hit at the hip for a traditional look.
Pair your peacoat with suitable dress shoes for a formal look. For a casual look, keep things relaxed with jeans and trainers.
Conclusion
Whether you’re reaching for a coat to stay warm or to make a fashion statement, a peacoat is an excellent choice. Its versatility and timeless appeal make it a must-have wardrobe piece. From the classic navy sale peacoat to the trendy wool blend peacoat, there are numerous styles to choose from.
So, whether you’re dressing for a formal occasion or a casual outing, the peacoat is your go-to coat. Style it with a crisp white shirt and black trousers for a classic look, or pair it with a bold patterned sweater for a trendy outfit. From spring to winter, day to night, the peacoat is a reliable and stylish companion. Remember, styling is all about expressing oneself – so wear your peacoat in the way that best reflects your personal style.
