Stepping outside in the winter can result in a shock to the body. Our cozy homes keep us warm from the frigid temps, sleet, and snow. But when it is time to face those elements, finding brands to rely on to keep you comfortable can be daunting. There are so many considerations to keep in mind: quality, price, effectiveness, and appeal. It can be hard to make a definitive choice that you feel checks all the boxes.
We are here to give you options that check those boxes and fit into the Classic Aesthetic. Minimalization, clean lines, and good quality make up the Classic Aesthetic. It filters out the busy and is a display of elegance that anyone can fit into. From casual to dressy, let us dig in and find those items that will help you battle the elements this winter.
Men’s Casual Coat
When looking for products of excellent quality, there are several aspects to consider: the material it is made from, how it is made, does the style and coloring appeal, and constant in my heart- were animals harmed to make this product. That is why I have fallen in love with Fjällräven. A Swedish company with its heart in the outdoors and mind on sustainability and animal welfare. Most winter coats are filled with down, and Fjällräven has made the Down Promise to ensure their products are made from ethically produced down of the highest quality. Fjällräven Chemical Guidelines are also a key to their quality as they work to balance the good and dangerous chemicals that are used throughout the industry.
Their Men’s Fjällräven Expedition Down Lite Jacket is my pick for this winter season. You can pick it up at your local REI or online. It features 700-fill-power down that is distributed in stitch-through channels. Wind- and water-resistant fabric is polyamide with a PFC-free durable water repellant to shed moisture. It has a 2-way front zipper plus a protective flap with buttons. And important for those gusts that hit us right at the knees, a drawcord adjustment at the hem.
Coming in at $550, it is worth the extra money to know that you will be warm in the bitterest of winters and that your coat was ethically sourced and made with care.
Women’s Casual Coat
This eco-friendly company is one the ladies will love, for every purchase Tentree will plant a tree in an effort to regenerate ecosystems, reduce carbon footprints and provide jobs in communities around the world. So far, they have planted 105,116,522 trees around the world! They also ensure their products are made with an Earth-First mindset that includes fair and safe working conditions and materials that are sustainably sourced and recycled. With this mindset, it is easy to understand why their products are quality made. They also ensure workers have fair wages, rest days, and access to equal employment opportunities. Another feather in their cap, Tentree only uses manufacturers that agree, sign, and adhere to their pillars of ethics and principles.
I have selected Tentree’s Daily Parka in black for this winter. It is clean lined, has an abundance of pockets (every woman’s dream), zippered and snap front placket with storm flap, Primaloft insulation in the hood and Centre Front placket, and Black Insulation Thermoplume with 100 PCR (post-consumer recycled content) from Primaloft, and soft internal cuffs that are sure to keep you warm. This year’s parka is available in black or fossil (tan with black cuffs). I chose black because the fossil would look better with tan cuffs. The coats run small so make sure to size up, especially if you want to wear bulky clothing underneath.
The price is a steal at $328 and is in my sights for a Christmas present to myself!
Men’s Dressy Coat
One of my favorite brands for Classic Aesthetic is J. Crew, as it is known for quality and timeless pieces. This is another brand that is aimed at sustainability and making plans to ensure all their key fibers are sustainably sourced by 2025. They have their own Human Rights Statement that covers how they conduct business, value their associates, support diverse candidates and associates, promise equitable pay, and so much more. J. Crew also has an Animal Welfare Policy, Vendor Code of Conduct, Published approach to Chemical Management, and Commitment to protect forests. They score huge points in my books for their effort to be responsible.
I have picked the Ludlow Topcoat in Wool Blend. As of this writing, it is currently 40% off @ $329.50. My favorite color for dressy outerwear is shades of light brown. This coat comes in Toffee which is the perfect shade of light brown to exude your classy style on date night. Paired with a solid cashmere scarf, also from J. Crew, 32% off at $66.50. Your outerwear choice for the evening is complete.
Women’s Dressy Coat
My pick for women’s is classy, elegant, and timeless. Free People’s Dilger Jacket in Cream speaks sweet nothings to those of us who love structured pieces. This piece emphasizes sleek lining with its fitted shoulder area and long coat that lengthens the body. This brand may be geared toward the twenty-something, but honestly, age is just a number and if you feel young flaunt it! To top off this evening look, I paired the jacket with a white cashmere/wool scarf from Amazon ($38.86).
Though I could not find their sustainability practices, I did find Free People’s ongoing and future Commitments toward equality within their community. They have a Diversity and Inclusion Committee, a Community Mentorship and Volunteering program that partners with 42 nonprofits, partners with Girls Inc. to inspire thousands of young women in the inner-city communities around the country. And dear to my heart, they also support their local Trans community with their partnership with William Way’s Trans Resource Center.
Next up in the Winter series… Pajamas! After a long night on the town, sliding into a warm and comfortable pajama set is the only thing to bring a wonderful day to a close. See you soon!
