Overcoat Suggestion

[chip19]

I read a little bit on this forum and others, and I try to keep relatively currently with fashion do's and don't's. However, my knowledge is porous when it comes to winter attire, specifically what to wear over a suit (an overcoat).

I'm going to graduate college this May, and already have a job in NYC secured. I will have to wear a suit with jacket every day. Through my previous internships, I have accumulated a wardrobe of fairly conservative navy and charcoal suits, but I also have one (albeit still relatively conservative compared to what I've seen some folks wear) interesting brownish earth tone pattern suit that almost shines in the right light. Bottom line: conservative stuff.

I have two pairs of shoes, black leather lace-ups and oxblood leather lace-ups. I prefer the oxblood but go with the black with my one lighter suit and for certain occasions (if I'm expecting a formal lunch meeting or something). Again, nothing out of the ordinary. Conservative.

My question is... where do I start with overcoats? I have not seen any definitive rules on the coloring. What is it supposed to match: Shoes, suit, nothing? As far as style, I'd like something that is tailored to fit over my jacket snugly so I'm not swimming in fabric, something with a slim fit. What I am looking for is something that will go well with all of my conservative suits and preferably with both pairs of shoes... something I can wear Monday-Friday in the winter and that will last me for many years.

I am open to any and all suggestions, especially on brands and colors. Money is not a huge concern, since I am willing to shell out quite a bit since I see this as a one-time-last-forever kind of purchase. It's the one part of my wardrobe that will consistently get a ton of use. That said, I'm not rich so let's keep it under $1200 if possible.

Thanks infinitely in advance!

 

[Doc4]

I would suggest, at a minimum, two coats: one to wear in warmer weather when it's raining, and one for the cold of winter.

For the first, a trenchcoat is a classic staple, either in traditional British Kahki, or a darker shade of taupe or some such thing.

For the second ... http://asuitablewardrobe.dynend.com/...-overcoat.html

 

[chip19]

I definitely like the camel hair and feel like it would go with pretty much everything. Thanks for the suggestion I think I'll have a look around some of my usual stores for a coat like that.

 

[whiteslashasian]

I already own a black, charcoal, and blue/brown check overcoat along with a navy DB Trench and a dark tan bordering on brown (light taupe?) DB trench.

I DEFINITELY need a camel colored overcoat to complete the collection. Kinda surprised I don't have one yet. They always look great!

 

[FIHTies]

Charcoal will be the most versatile while being less conspicuous than camel color which is nice but loud.

Especially in your case, fresh from school and just starting out at a position.

 

[chip19]

Yeah, I might hold off on the camel... feel out the atmosphere and see what everyone else wears before I make any fashion statements, haha. Thanks for the advice.

 

[scottlit]

Actually, I have a follow-up question to throw into the mix here. I was looking at Brooks Brothers full-length BrookStorm overcoats today, and they had one in my size in both black and navy.

I felt like I preferred the black more than the navy, but I'm wondering which one will be more versatile. I generally wear navy blue and grey suits, and never earth tone suits. I have a couple of blue suits that are a bit lighter blue as well. Anyway, my question for everyone is can I really go wrong with a black overcoat? Would I be better served with the navy blue one? Or given what I would be wearing it with should I just go with the one I like better? Also, has anybody ever seen these coats go on sale at 50% off? They're running 25% off right now, but I'm wondering if I should try to hold out for a better discount.

Also, has anybody ever managed to negotiate a better discount than the basic sale price at Brooks Brothers?