Expert names five coats to avoid — including the ‘old bath mat’ style
SEPTEMBER is finally here and that means it’s time to put away your summer clothes and wear something a little more comfortable.
As temperatures slowly drop and evenings get colder, coats have once again become an essential part of our everyday outfits.
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But if you’re not yet looking for the perfect fall coat, read on. According to an elegance coach, there are a few viral styles you should avoid.
On TikTok, the guru named @ladyblue_official I’ve rounded up five choices that, despite being worn by many, actually make you look ‘cheap’ – or even like you’re wearing ‘an old bath mat’.
Black biker jackets
Since leather jackets were first introduced by bikers around 1928, they have become incredibly popular, with almost every fashionista owning one.
Whether you’re looking for a genuine leather version or a faux leather alternative, the options on the high street are virtually endless.
But while these jackets are mainstream, the expert warned that biker jackets are ”not elegant at all”.
Furthermore, she explained in the videothis spring/fall item ”is so over the top” – ”and most of it looks poor quality”.
Padded puffer jackets
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The quilted puffer jacket is available in almost every store, such as Zara, Marks & Spencer and H&M, for a relatively affordable price. A few years ago, the jacket took our wardrobe by storm.
However, if you want to elevate your look this season, it’s best to skip the viral style, as it looks ‘too dated’.
The guru urged fashion lovers to shun the trend: “They don’t do anything to make it look flattering on your body.
“You can never look elegant and well-groomed in these synthetic, plastic jackets.”
Fleece teddy coats
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There’s no better feeling than slipping into a comfy teddy coat. And with so many different colour options and lengths, it’s easy to see why this soft outerwear item has become such a hit on the high street.
The elegance virtuoso shared her harsh assessment of the coveted style, saying: “I can no longer throw away an old bath mat that doesn’t belong there.
“Or a cheap toy from the vending machine,” she chuckled.
Beige trench coats
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A trench coat is a classic that never goes out of style and can be combined with almost anything. A trench coat is a must-have that we all need to have in our wardrobe.
The ultimate, lasting piece, this chic trend is also the perfect choice for the change of seasons, when temperatures are neither too hot nor too cold.
While the expert has nothing against the style per se, she did warn that “fast fashion brands are ruining it by copying it cheaply.”
“So now everyone has a bad version of that – you all look the same and the quality is clearly visible.”
“It doesn’t fit well, the stitching is bad and the buttons are horrible.”
How to Look Chic on a Budget
Fashion stylist Gemma Rose Breger and beauty journalist Samantha Silver showed how to make your outfits more stylish without spending hundreds of euros.
- Never spend money on designer denim: River Island ”always has such a great selection of fashionable jeans that follow the current trends”. The retailer offers a wide range of sizes from UK 6 – UK 18 and three leg lengths – with prices starting at an affordable £25.
- There are no rules for jewelry: ”Get something at a flea market or thrift store, score on Vinted and eBay, buy something from the clothing section of your local supermarket when you go shopping or have a look in clothing stores on the high street.”
- Don’t forget the second-hand sites: With the rise of second-hand sites like Vinted and Depop, there’s no excuse not to buy – or sell – second-hand clothes. Gemma, for example, managed to get her hands on a pair of chic Chanel sunglasses for just £17.
Pilot jackets
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Also known as the faux fur coat, the aviator jacket is another trend we’ve seen make a huge comeback. According to John Lewis, searches for this garment have increased by 68% since last year. The Guardian reported.
If these jackets are well made, they can indeed last a long time. But as the pro explained, this is not necessarily the case with most affordable versions on the market.
“That’s absolutely not true. It’s like carrying a fake Chanel bag that does more harm than good.”
If you can’t afford a real sheepskin coat, or you just don’t like leather, the expert advised you to avoid this model altogether.
