In case you didn’t know, there’s more to be added to a stylish winter-weather wardrobe than just leather boots, knit stockings and infinity scarves.  Once the weather dips below 50, it’s time to consider your stockpile of suitable outerwear – and coats in particular.

First, a public service announcement needs to be made. Not all outerwear is created equal, nor should they all be categorized as “jackets” or “sweaters.” We often make this mistake, and designers would have us banished from New York Fashion Week for not knowing the difference (helpful hint: jackets cover only to the lower back, while coats are meant to provide more warmth down to the derrière and upper thighs).  Here to enlighten you further – and perhaps stimulate your need for early Christmas shopping – is a lookbook of statement coats every woman should have ready when the winter months come calling.

Animal print is often shied away from due to lack of proper styling (we all have that tacky, animal-print loving friend who does it all wrong, don’t we!?) Embrace your animal instincts this winter with coats that express your wild side – just be careful not to overwhelm the ensemble.  Keep it simple with complimentary tones and subtle accessories.

The winter weather may be monochrome with its grey and white skies, but that doesn’t mean your wardrobe has to be too! Don’t be afraid of vibrant blues, greens, purples and reds this season, as it lends to a much needed pop of energy and radiance during an otherwise dull solstice.  (Hint: nothing is off limits, including floral prints!)

So you’re a member of PETA? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Faux fur and vegan leather outerwear are a great alternative to the real thing, and we don’t have to tell you why! It’s easy to keep your conscience clear knowing that no animals were harmed in the making of these fine coats.

The post Cozying Up with Winter Coats appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Coats are a year round staple in San Francisco. Depending on the fabric weight, cut and color, you can find yourself wearing a coat in any of the Bay Area’s four seasons.

Here are five tips to finding a high quality coat that you will wear for many seasons to come.

1. The quality of the fabric is of utmost importance. One of the best materials for warmth and style is wool. Melton, a dense felted wool fabric, is one of the preferred fabrics for a coat. Melton is treated with heat and pressure to bind fibers together which makes it wind-resistant. Wool melton delivers comfort, warmth and elegance with a beautiful yet structured drape. Often wool melton fabrics are combined with a small amount of nylon for extra durability. Test the “hand” of the fabric or how it feels when touched. A high quality wool garment should be soft to the touch and not itchy or scratchy.

2. A coat should be well stitched. The top stitching should be clean, straight and evenly spaced. The seams should match and any pattern lines should line up.

3. Well-made coats include details made with luxurious materials like genuine leather, high quality zippers or buttons and breathable linings. Coats that are lined will hang better and last longer.

4. On the interior of the coat, high-quality coats are manufactured with a fusible that reinforces certain parts of the interior of the garment. This fusible will prolong the life of the garment as well as maintain its shape over the years. A coat should have a gusset or pleat on the back lining to allow freedom of arm movement and bending.

5. As for styling, look for a coat that is flattering to your shape. Make sure the sleeves are long enough so it looks like it was made for you, hitting you below your wrist and above the base of your thumb. Color is important, especially if you are looking for a coat to take you through several seasons. A neutral dark color is the most versatile. It can take you from day to night with a few accessory changes.

Available at jamytarr.com

Product photos courtesy of J’Amy Tarr 

The post 5 Tips to Finding a Great Winter Coat appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Whether you’re in the snowy days of winter to the rainy months getting closer to spring, these coats will see you through the season in fashionable style!

Ladies Esprit in Military Green
www.burlingtoncoatfactory.com

Buckle Front Cape
www.mintvelvet.com

Ladies Zero Exposure in Black
www.burlingtoncoatfactory.com

Mad Men Wollen Jacket
www.bananarepublic.com

Ellos Leather Jacket in Black
www.laredoute.com

Lands’ End Double Breasted Wool Coat
www.landsend.com

Lands’ End Classic Trench
www.landsend.com

Winter Trench
www.asos.com

The post Best Winter Coats appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Deep Red Wool Floppy Hat
www.newlook.com

Crystal Flower Studs
www.accessorize.com

   Marino Cape
www.landsend.com

   Luxury Leather Water Resistant Gloves
  www.marksandspencer.com

Peacock Feather Earrings
www.georgeatasda.com

Felt Hat
www.frenchconnection.com

The post Winter Accessories appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.