The fashion industry is expanding rapidly with various variations for every piece of clothing. The uniquely stylish ensemble is everyone’s go-to nowadays. That’s where the question arises, What is an overcoat? And how can you style it in various ways?
It is an elongated piece of outerwear, falling to the knees-length made out of wool or any other material. Most overcoats have a single-breasted front with peak or notched lapels. It is usually worn over different types of jackets for extra protection.
What To Expect In This Article?
History of Overcoats
Overcoats have been with us for centuries. In the mid-1800s when it was used as protective gear for the military, it was sewed close to the body to provide extreme warmth. The coat was supposedly worn over the uniform. In the 1900s the coat started to evolve when it came out for the civilians. The loosened coat style was the second that was adapted by the locals of the era. Since then, the evolution of this elongated outerwear began, where it saw various style variations over the years.
Types Of Coats
There are many types of coats from which one is an overcoat. The types include
- Trench Coat
- Covert Coat
- Pea Coat
- Raincoat
- Chesterfield Coat
- Duffle Coat
- Fur Coat
An Overcoat Description
The overcoat is one branch of the coat family. It normally features a knee-length, buttoned single or double-breasted closure and peak or notched lapels to emphasize the coat astonishingly well. These can be worn at both; casual and formal events.
Overcoat vs Topcoat
A topcoat is also a member of the coat family. It is made out of lighter fabrics, shorter lengths, and different styles. The main difference between the two is the length of the coat, an overcoat usually falls below the knee length whereas a topcoat is usually above it. The topcoat is also said to be a lightweight overcoat that is mostly used in autumn and spring.
Trench Coat vs Overcoat
A trench coat is also outerwear designed for protective measures. Also introduced by the military for protection against the rain. Featuring large pockets, and bulky silhouettes as well as functional pockets for essential military use. The trench coat was also adapted by the civilians and made its space in the fashion industry by siding the traditional not-so-stylish basic raincoats. The difference between the trench and the overcoat is mainly in the fabric and the purpose, both share formal means like lapels and frontal closure.
How can you Style an Overcoat?
There are many ways in which the overcoat can be styled. The coat has evolved drastically adapting various styles, including the position of pockets, front closure, lapels, and even the length.
Smart Casual
Smart-casual is the most stylish you can get with a khaki trench coat or a leather overcoat. Pair it with a plain white tee and ripped denim jeans and suede casual boots, and a trench coat to highlight the overall ensemble. This look will make you look bold and stylish.
Business casual
Another best way to style your overcoat is by pairing it with an all-black outfit teamed with a camel-colored single-breasted, notched lapel overcoat. The overall ensemble gives a perfect business casual look that would work best on a normal breezy office day.
Formal
When you have a formal occasion, the double-breasted, peak lapel overcoat is the perfect go-to. Pair it with a formal blazer, buttoned-down shirt, pants, a tie, and oxford shoes to make the classic outfit. The formality of this outfit will make you look classy and confident.
Ending Note
The overcoat is an elongated piece of clothing that is essential for formal and business casual wear. The coat features a single or a double-breasted frontal buttoned closure along with peak or notched lapels. The coat serves as a protective layer in chilly winters, usually worn above a jacket or a blazer.
