Dear Julie,

"How many are too many?" when it comes to coats?
When I'm working with a client and we've put together a wonderful outfit and then I say,,,,,,,,,,, "Now what coat will you wear?" This is often followed by a long pause. Why the pause? Somehow we often see the coats as separate pieces, when they are actually an integral part of the wardrobe. Therefore, I have some suggestions of what a "wardrobe" of coats would be.

For instance in the cooler climates, we need a significant variety of coats and jackets to fit our ever changing weather. Below is my suggested list. You may have a couple less; you may have a few more. But if you are working with me - you probably need about this many.

Mid-Temperature Coats
These coats are for when temperatures in the mid 60s-40s, and are short, medium, and long lengths, usually with a removable lining. Think "trench" or "rain or shine" style. They are usually neutrals, but occasionally come in colors, often are 100% cotton, polyester, or a blend. Sometimes these can be found in lovely shades such as rust, burgundy or teal.

In my experience, people who commute to work via public transportation tend to need a full-length trench, just because it is cooler in the morning and evening. For the people in and out all day, a knee length trench coat may be a better choice.

I also love my clients to have a short jacket in either leather or suede. If their palette allows it, this is in a fabulous color.

Winter Coats
Winter coats are also necessary at short, medium and long lengths. Wool-felt, is the most popular fabric, however you can also get a check/tweed/plaid. Take note that at least one of these three wool coats will be to accommodate a bulky sweater.

A "down" or fiber-filled coat and/or jacket may also be necessary, especially if you're the type who's always cold.

Winter coats are made in lots of different fabrics. If you have questions, just email me as there are just too many to discuss here.

Others
Obviously you don't want to wear your "good" coat walking the dog, raking leaves, or shoveling snow. This is where the "throw on jacket" comes is needed. It's often a quilted jacket, barn coat, or even the worn out trench coat that has been replaced and you just can't throw away the old one. (You know who you are!)

Another piece to consider is a "fun coat"- taking color, texture and style into consideration. This is where you can be creative and break out of the mold with a bright color or interesting pattern.

This may sound like a lot of outerwear, but if you really think about what you wear and therefore what you need, they all get used. Do you have to have this many? No, certainly not. But if you have this many, its not "too many".