Its winter time again, other than this being legging and UGG’s season for the ladies this is season for sweatpants and over-sized coats for men (I see you). Again, and again I see shorter men with huge jackets, puff jackets, topcoats etc. This continues to go back to the aspect of fit and proportions. I am of a shorter stature which means that all of my clothes needs to be well, short, because those are the proportions of my body. Coats are difficult for shorter men especially nice wool ones such as car coats and top coats. Here is where our winter savior, the Peacoat comes into play! Lets get into some of the history of this coat:
HISTORY
The Peacoat was introduced by the Dutch Navy in the 1800’s, originally called “pije”, however the pronunciation is as “pea”, which basically means coarse wool fabric in Dutch. Nevertheless, this coat got popular with the British Navy and then made its way overseas to the US Navy. These were standard issued too, talk about style for free. Now in day you see these coats are mainstream and are in all major retail stores.
CONSTRUCTION
Peacoats are most commonly recognizable for being double breasted and the count of the buttons (varies from 4, 6 and even 8). Just like a double breasted suit jacket it can have different kinds of buttons and can come in now different fabrics but you definitely want wool or some blend with it. Another signature characteristic of the coat is the big collar, which can keep at least the tip of your ears warm. Lastly, and more importantly, it falls to about below the waistline but no longer than your high thigh.
SO WHY THE PEACOAT?
As mentioned, and in the illustrations, you can see that the jackets are shorter. This is why this coat is perfect for shorter gentlemen, because its proportional to our bodies. Other than proportions it is important to keep in mind that you have to make sure that the coat fits you, that is the ultimate thing above all else. These coats come in different fabrics but the fabric that I recommend is wool or wool blend, this will keep you warm, which is the ultimate goal.
WHERE TO PICK ONE UP
These coats are mass produced and there are a variety of brands that can help you with your conundrum. The two coats that you will see me in, in these shots are from Express (Black), Amazon(Green). I always tell people that coats are an investment just like a suit because if your in a place like MN where winters are harsh and long, you want a nice coat. That being mentioned anywhere from $150 to $200 would be a good range for a great coat. Here are a few brands that have great coats at great prices (other than the two mentioned above):
ASOS
Banana Republic
EXPRESS
OLD NAVY
J CREW
LOOKS/ INSPO
There are many different ways to pull off the peacoat, styled up or down. Here is the only downfall and I hate to say it, you cant wear it with a full suit. Why? Because your suit jacket will come out from under the peacoat (not a good look), you have to take off the suit jacket and put on the coat. However if you find one that is long enough and can get over your suit your set to go!
I highly recommend the peacoat to anyone that is looking for a new coat, but specifically to us modest men (under 5 ft 10 in). Make sure to subscribe to the mailing list and continue to follow on IG and Youtube. Thanks for the support and happy new year!
As always style up.