Picture this: It’s a chilly autumn morning, and you’re stepping out of your cozy home, ready to take on the day. You reach for a stylish coat hanging by the door, like Superman grabbing his cape. With that one final layer, you feel sophisticated, polished, and chic. Welcome to the 2023 Outerwear Rental Guide.
Within the ever-evolving world of fashion, some pieces stand the test of time. Among them, a few classic coats and jackets remain staples that can effortlessly elevate your style. These timeless outerwear pieces are more than just functional; they are the embodiment of elegance and grace. Let’s dive into the appeal of our outerwear favorites for 2023-2024 and explore how to incorporate them into your wardrobe seamlessly.
Outerwear Rental Guide Criteria
Our outerwear picks of the year have a unique charm that never fades. They possess a certain timeless allure that can make you feel both cozy and confident, no matter the occasion. Here is the criteria we used to judge coats for Outerwear Rental Guide:
1. Versatility: Our favorite outerwear styles are incredibly versatile. A great coat or jacket can effortlessly transition from day to night, from casual outings to formal events.
2. Quality Matters: When it comes to outerwear, quality reigns supreme. We look for styles that are crafted with meticulous attention to detail and high-quality materials.
3. Instant Elegance: There’s something inherently sophisticated about some outerwear. Whether it’s a trench coat or a pea coat, these pieces have a way of adding instant elegance to any outfit, and we’re here for it.
4. Timeless Silhouettes: Winning outerwear is also defined by their enduring silhouettes. These designs have stood the test of time because they flatter a wide range of body types and never go out of style.
5. Investment Pieces: It’s no surprise that the best coats and jackets are often considered investment pieces. While they may come with a higher price tag, their timeless appeal makes them worth every penny. Of course, we’ve made the investment for you at Armoire. You can wear any of our top recommendations without regard to their cost.
Without further ado, here are our top picks for our 2023-2024 Outerwear Rental Guide…
IN: Faux Fur—Fabulously Fashionable
Faux fur is a synthetic material designed to mimic the look and feel of real animal fur. It’s made from various synthetic fibers, often including materials such as polyester, acrylic, modacrylic, or nylon. Manufacturers blend these synthetic fibers to create textures and colors that imitate the appearance and feel of real fur. Advanced manufacturing techniques allow for a wide range of designs and patterns, giving faux fur versatility in mimicking various types of animal fur.
Why we love them:
Incredibly warm and cozy, the faux fur coat is second only to your favorite bathrobe when it comes to comfort. Ultimately, the appeal of faux fur coats lies in their combination of style, warmth, ethical considerations, and versatility, making them a popular choice among women seeking a glamorous yet conscientious outerwear option.
How We Style Them:
- Classic Comfort: If there was ever a time to get away with yoga pants, it’s now. Wear a solid black pair with tall riding boots and a turtleneck.
- Rockstar Vibes: Ripped denim with modern heeled booties completes a carefree look.
- Casual Elegance: Pair a faux fur coat with jeans, a sweater, and ankle boots for a sophisticated yet casual look. Add a scarf and a crossbody bag to complete the outfit.
- Evening Glam: Layer the faux fur coat over a sleek dress or a jumpsuit for a glamorous evening ensemble. Complete the look with heels, statement jewelry, and a clutch.
- Street Style Edge: Combine the faux fur coat with leather leggings or distressed jeans, a graphic tee, and combat boots for an edgy streetwear vibe. Accessorize with a beanie.
- Layer Up: Experiment with layering by wearing the faux fur coat over a turtleneck sweater or a blouse and adding a belt to cinch the waist for a more defined silhouette.
- Bohemian Flair: Style the faux fur coat with a boho-inspired maxi dress or skirt, along with suede or fringe accessories. Complete the look with ankle boots or sandals.
- Casual Luxe: Combine the faux fur coat with leggings or joggers, a cozy sweater, and sneakers for a comfortable yet stylish everyday outfit.
IN: Trench Coats—Timeless Elegance
Trench coats have been worn by style icons, celebrities, and fictional characters, contributing to their allure and making them a symbol of sophistication and elegance. They are great transitional pieces between seasons. With the right fabric and lining, trench coats can offer warmth in colder weather and can be worn as a lightweight layer in milder temperatures.
Why we love them:
A trench coat is the epitome of timeless elegance. Its clean lines and neutral color make it a versatile addition to your wardrobe. We suspect these will remain in our Outerwear Rental Guide for many years to come.
How We Style Them:
- Classic and Chic: Pair a beige or camel trench coat with a white shirt, tailored trousers, and heels for a sophisticated and timeless look.Add a silk scarf and classic accessories like a structured handbag for an elegant touch.
- Casual and Effortless: Layer a trench coat over a basic tee, jeans, and ankle boots for a relaxed yet stylish outfit. Opt for a more oversized trench coat for a slouchy, laid-back vibe.
- Belted Elegance: Cinch the waist with the coat’s belt to emphasize your figure and create a more defined silhouette.Belted trench coats work well with dresses, skirts, or even over leggings for a polished look.
- Edgy and Modern: Experiment with unconventional colors like navy, burgundy, or black for a more contemporary feel. Pair with leather pants or a mini skirt, combat boots, and statement accessories for an edgy twist.
- Layering Play: Use the trench coat as a layering piece. Wear it over a chunky sweater or a hoodie for a cozy yet stylish ensemble. Mix textures by layering with different fabrics like denim, wool, or cashmere.
- Office Appropriate: Opt for a tailored trench coat and pair it with a pencil skirt or tailored trousers, a blouse, and pumps for a polished office look. Stick to neutral colors or classic tones for a professional appearance.
- Play with Lengths: Experiment with different trench coat lengths—try a cropped trench for a modern twist or a floor-length trench for added drama.Match the length of the coat to the rest of your outfit for a balanced look.
IN: Topper— Long Coat Energy
Toppers, typically referring to long, open-front coats or jackets, are incredibly versatile. They can be dressed up or down, worn over various outfits, from casual jeans to elegant dresses, making them a practical choice for many occasions. This earned them a spot in our 2023 Outerwear Rental Guide.
Why we love them:
Toppers usually offer enough room for layering, allowing wearers to adapt to changing weather conditions. They can accommodate different clothing underneath without looking bulky, providing both warmth and style.
How We Style Them:
- Casual Chic: Pair the topper with jeans, a basic tee, and ankle boots or sneakers. Add a scarf or statement necklace for an extra touch.
- Workwear Elegance: Layer the topper over a blouse or button-down shirt paired with tailored trousers or a pencil skirt. Opt for heels or stylish flats to complete the professional look.
- Dressy Ensemble: Wear the topper over a cocktail dress or a more formal outfit for a sophisticated touch. Add heels and elegant accessories like a clutch and statement earrings.
- Boho Vibes: Style the topper with a flowy maxi dress or a bohemian-inspired outfit. Accessorize with a wide-brimmed hat, layered necklaces, and ankle boots for a laid-back, yet stylish look.
- Layering Game: Experiment with layering by adding a belt over the topper to cinch the waist, creating a more defined silhouette. This works well with jeans, skirts, or dresses.
- Monochrome Styling: Opt for a monochromatic look by wearing the topper in the same color family as the rest of your outfit. This creates a sleek and coordinated ensemble.
- Mixing Textures: Play with different textures by combining the topper with clothing items made from contrasting materials, like pairing a wool topper with a silk blouse or leather pants.
- Street Style: For a trendy streetwear look, style the topper with athleisure pieces such as leggings, a hoodie, and sneakers. Add a baseball cap or a beanie for a sporty vibe.
IN: Faux Leather Coats—Edgy Sophistication
Many of us prefer faux leather coats for ethical reasons. They provide a cruelty-free alternative to genuine leather. Plus, faux leather tends to be more budget-friendly than genuine leather, making it accessible to a wider range of consumers. It’s impossible to ignore leather-ish looks this season, so it was a no-brainer to include faux leather coats in our Outerwear Rental Guide.
Why we love them:
While trends may come and go, the leather jacket remains a symbol of rebellion and edgy style. Faux leather coats are often more durable and easier to maintain compared to genuine leather. They are less prone to cracking and fading, and cleaning is typically simpler, requiring less specialized care.
How We Style Them:
- Casual Chic: Pair a black faux leather jacket with a basic white tee, distressed jeans, and ankle boots for an effortlessly cool and casual vibe. Complete the look with minimal accessories and a crossbody bag for a laid-back yet stylish ensemble.
- Edgy and Bold: Opt for a moto-style faux leather jacket with hardware details and pair it with a graphic tee, ripped jeans, and chunky boots for an edgier appearance. Experiment with statement accessories like studded belts or bold jewelry to enhance the edgy vibe.
- Feminine Twist: Contrast the toughness of a faux leather jacket by layering it over a flowy dress or a floral skirt for a mix of feminine and edgy elements. Add heeled boots or sandals to elevate the look and create a more polished ensemble.
- Office-Ready Style: Choose a tailored faux leather blazer and wear it over a blouse or a button-down shirt with tailored trousers for a professional yet trendy office look. Stick to neutral tones and sleek accessories to maintain a polished appearance.
- Layering Masterpiece: Use the faux leather jacket as a layering piece. Combine it with a sweater or hoodie underneath for extra warmth and a stylish layered effect.Play with different lengths and textures to create visual interest and depth in your outfit.
- Athleisure Fusion: Create an athleisure-inspired look by pairing a faux leather jacket with leggings, a sports bra or tank, and sneakers for a sporty yet trendy appearance. Top off the outfit with a baseball cap or a sleek ponytail for a casual ensemble.
IN: Statement Coats—Expressing Individuality
Statement coats offer a canvas for self-expression and creativity. They come in bold colors, unique patterns, and eye-catching designs, allowing us to showcase our personality and style through outerwear. Overall, the appeal of statement coats lies in their ability to make a bold fashion statement, offer versatility, boost confidence, and add an element of excitement and uniqueness to our wardrobes.
Why we love them:
Statement coats are often conversation starters. Whether it’s a vivid color, an intricate pattern, or a distinct silhouette, these coats draw attention and make us stand out in a crowd.
How We Style Them:
- Neutral Base: Start with a neutral outfit base such as black jeans, a white blouse, or a simple dress. Let the coat take center stage by providing a striking contrast against a minimalistic backdrop.
- Color Coordination: Pair a colorful statement coat with monochromatic outfits, allowing the coat’s color to stand out. For instance, a vibrant red or yellow coat can pop against an all-black ensemble.
- Pattern Play: Mix patterns thoughtfully. Pair a patterned statement coat with a simpler pattern, like stripes or polka dots, in the outfit. Ensure one pattern is more subdued to avoid overwhelming the look.
- Belted Elegance: If the statement coat has a belt, use it to cinch the waist. This adds definition and structure to the silhouette, giving a more polished appearance.
- Contrast Textures: Mix textures to create visual interest. Pair a textured or embellished statement coat with different fabric textures like silk, velvet, or leather to add depth to the outfit.
- Statement Accessories: Keep accessories minimal to allow the coat to shine. However, adding a statement accessory like bold earrings or a standout handbag can complement the coat without overpowering it.
- Casual Chic: Dress down the coat by pairing it with casual pieces like jeans and sneakers or boots. This juxtaposition of a statement coat with more laid-back elements creates a stylish yet relaxed look.
- Formal Elegance: Utilize the statement coat for formal occasions by layering it over an evening dress or pairing it with tailored pants and heels. Opt for a coat that complements the outfit’s color palette and style.
IN: Pea Coats: Classic Cool
Pea coats have been around for a long time and have a classic, elegant look that never seems to go out of fashion. Their structured silhouette and double-breasted design offer a flattering fit for many body types. Pea coats drip with classic cool vibes.
Why we love them:
We’re drawn to the historical and nautical roots of pea coats (they were initially worn by sailors). This history adds to their charm and appeal.
How We Style Them:
- Casual Chic: Pair the pea coat with skinny jeans or leggings and ankle boots. Add a cozy sweater or a fitted top underneath for a comfortable yet stylish look.
- Office Elegance: For a professional appearance, wear the pea coat over a blouse or a button-down shirt paired with tailored trousers or a pencil skirt. Complete the outfit with heels or flats for a polished look.
- Dress it Up: Pea coats can complement dresses beautifully. Try wearing it over a little black dress or a floral dress for a sophisticated ensemble. Tights or stockings can add warmth during cooler weather.
- Layered Look: Experiment with layering by adding scarves, hats, or gloves. A colorful scarf or a stylish hat can add a pop of personality to the outfit while keeping you warm.
- Mix Textures: Play with different textures and fabrics. Consider pairing the pea coat with leather pants, suede boots, or a cashmere sweater to add depth and interest to your outfit.
- Belt it: Some pea coats come with belts, while others can be styled with a belt of your choice. Cinch the waist with a stylish belt to create a more defined silhouette and add a fashionable touch.
- Casual Dresses or Skirts: Opt for a more relaxed look by wearing the pea coat with a casual dress or a skirt. Pair it with sneakers or flat shoes for a comfortable yet chic vibe.
OUT: Capes
Capes exude an air of mystery and drama. Whether you prefer a classic wool cape or a sleek, modern version, they definitely make a statement. But, they didn’t make our Outerwear Rental Guide and there are a few reasons why we’re okay with taking a season off.
Why We’re Over Them (For Now):
- Practicality: Depending on the design and length, capes can restrict movement or be cumbersome when performing tasks that require more freedom of movement. For instance, holding children.
- Weather Considerations: In colder weather, capes might not offer the same level of warmth as a coat with sleeves. We typically have to layer more underneath to stay warm, impacting comfort and style.
- Accessories: Carrying a purse or bag while wearing a cape can be less convenient, and there aren’t any built-in pockets in most capes.
OUT: Duffle Coats
Duffle coats, featuring a hood and toggle fastenings, have been popular for many years. While they have several advantages such as warmth and style, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider.
Why We’re Over Them (For Now):
- Bulky Appearance: Duffle coats can be bulky, especially if they are heavily insulated for warmth. This may not be to everyone’s taste, and some people prefer more streamlined or fitted coats.
- Limited Formality: Duffle coats are generally considered casual wear. If you have a more formal or professional dress code, a duffle coat might not be the best choice for certain occasions.
- Weight: Depending on the materials used, some duffle coats can be relatively heavy. This may not be an issue in cold weather, but it can be less comfortable if the weather is milder.
- Function: The toggle fastenings on duffle coats can be a bit more cumbersome than other types of closures.
- Limited Color Options: Traditional duffle coats often come in neutral or classic colors, which may not suit everyone’s style preferences. If you prefer a wider range of color options, you might find the choices with duffle coats to be somewhat limited.
Incorporating outerwear into your wardrobe is about selecting pieces that resonate with your personal style and can seamlessly integrate with your existing clothing. Mix and match coats and jackets with your favorite garments to create a polished, sophisticated look that stands the test of time.
If you’re looking to embrace high-quality outerwear without committing to a long-term investment, consider Armoire. We offer a wide selection of this season’s coats and jackets as seen in our Outerwear Rental Guide, allowing you to experiment with different styles and brands. This sustainable approach to fashion not only reduces your environmental footprint but also gives you the opportunity to enjoy high-quality outerwear without the commitment of ownership.
Outerwear for women is more than just clothing; it’s a statement of enduring style and sophistication. Incorporating quality coats and jackets into your wardrobe can elevate your look, whether you’re going for a casual, business, or evening ensemble. With the right outerwear, you’ll be ready to face any season with elegance and grace.