Pea coats come in many different fabrics. Most of the time, you’ll find them in wool, but they also come in cashmere, polyester, or cotton, as well as corduroy and flannel. Your fabric selection will be based upon two things: how heavy you want your coat to be and how the fabrics feel against your skin. Some pea coats are lined, so don’t simply run your hand over the outer fabric. Try on each available coat before you make your final selection.
There are many colors available on the market today. You can purchase a pea coat in the more traditional and neutral colors of beige, white, black, grey, or brown. However, you can choose to use color to express yourself, investing in a blue, red, or purple pea coat. Find a color that you are comfortable with before making your purchase so you won’t be tempted to exchange the coat later.
Pea coats are available in many different styles, some traditional, and some decidedly not so. Though the classic single-breasted coat has been a favorite for many years, don’t be afraid to search out styles with a little more flair. Pea coats now sometimes come with hoods for warmth. You can find trendier styles with pleated hems and funnel necks. Other options may include: oversized buttons, cargo pockets, interesting belts, and toggles and accents in different styles. Look at everything before you make a decision.
Traditionally, pea coats are about hip-length. However, these days you can get pea coats that are both shorter and longer than the average. Which you choose depends on your own body type and on your local climate. If you have larger hips, you might want a pea coat that only comes to your waist. Those who are particularly curvy will want a coat with a stylish belt to define the waist. And a longer coat that covers more will be ideal for colder climates.
Ultimately, you’ll want to pick a style, color, and fabric that flatters your own figure and appeals to your sense of style, so try on everything before you buy. Be selective, consider all your options, and don’t settle for something you don’t want, and you’ll find the perfect pea coat for you in no time.
