A winter coat is a necessary investment for Canadians, and choosing a pre-loved piece is a more affordable and sustainable option. By picking a classic style with neutral colours, such as camel, blue, or black, you can invest in a coat to wear for years to come. Here are three tips to finding your perfect winter coat at your local Salvation Army Thrift Store.
TIP 1: Look for Quality Materials
All experienced thrifters know that when a garment catches your eye, the first thing you check is the label. Wool is always a popular winter coat material and is also a common Thrift Store find, but make sure that it is at least 70% wool. A polyester blend will not help you stay warm through a cold winter, and also lacks the water-resistant power of a high percentage wool or nylon material.
TIP 2: Size up Rather than Down
Layering is a key component of cold-weather apparel, so make sure that your coat provides you with enough room to fit additional layers underneath. When leaving room to layer, an area often overlooked is sleeve space. Many coats are looser fitting around the torso but tighter on the arms, which makes wearing warm sweaters underneath more difficult.
TIP 3: Flatter Your Body
Winter coats tend to be big and bulky by nature, which can make it difficult to find a shape that works for your unique body type. If you are on the shorter side, a coat that falls at mid-thigh level can help elongate, while a tie-waist coat can add a slimming effect.