I just moved to Chicago, and the coldest place I've ever lived up to now has been Portland OR (below freezing maybe 3 days a year). I'm soliciting suggestions for a winter coat that will get me through a Chicago winter without hibernating at home. A few specifications:
1. Much as I love tailored clothing (and in fact do own a wool topocoat that goes down close to the knees), I have committed to bike commuting. The coat needs to give me enough freedom of movement (legs and upper body) to ride a bike.
2. Related to (1) - I'd probably want something with a more workwear, classic, or urban aesthetic, rather than tailored coats (so no topcoats, car coats, or maybe even peacoats). Things I've liked the look of include: quilted Barbour coats like the Liddesdale and simply designed, unadorned flight jackets with fur/faux fur lining
3. I'm trying not to break the bank - so suggestions of where to find off season sales, how to wait/shop, or of less popular but still reliable brands are more than welcome. Budget is around $300, maybe with a a bit of wiggle room
4. Last thing - any other suggestions for how to survive the winter (gloves, headgear, legs, boots, etc. are all welcome)
EDIT: Is layering with puffy down jackets underneath a (tailored) outer layer still a thing? Was it ever a thing?
1. Much as I love tailored clothing (and in fact do own a wool topocoat that goes down close to the knees), I have committed to bike commuting. The coat needs to give me enough freedom of movement (legs and upper body) to ride a bike.
2. Related to (1) - I'd probably want something with a more workwear, classic, or urban aesthetic, rather than tailored coats (so no topcoats, car coats, or maybe even peacoats). Things I've liked the look of include: quilted Barbour coats like the Liddesdale and simply designed, unadorned flight jackets with fur/faux fur lining
3. I'm trying not to break the bank - so suggestions of where to find off season sales, how to wait/shop, or of less popular but still reliable brands are more than welcome. Budget is around $300, maybe with a a bit of wiggle room
4. Last thing - any other suggestions for how to survive the winter (gloves, headgear, legs, boots, etc. are all welcome)
EDIT: Is layering with puffy down jackets underneath a (tailored) outer layer still a thing? Was it ever a thing?