Compared to seasons past, coats have become more than just an article of clothing to keep warm in.
A "coat craze" has swept the fashion world, featuring varieties that include bell sleeves, funky patterns, metallic threading and creative cuts. Fortunately, there are coats for everyone at prices that won't bounce checks.
"Coats have become more affordable and a lot cuter," said Catherine Kuhns (freshman-elementary education), an employee of Mr. Charles, 228 E. College Ave. "Now you can buy three and be ready for the season."
Instead of purchasing a classic North Face or canvas parka, dig into the plethora of different styles offered in downtown shops.
The Babydoll
The 3/4 bell-sleeved coat that hits right below the waist is everywhere this season. Whether it's corduroy, fleece, wool or tweed, all alternatives are welcome in this style. Jayme Cawthern, assistant manager at Metro, 320 E. College Ave., said the store carries a 3/4-sleeve babydoll jacket by Free People, as well as a few knock-off brands.
"They seem pretty popular," she said. "We got [the Free People jacket] in black, gray and brown, and they are sort of a sweatshirt material. It's just cotton but it's a little bit thicker and has two layers with a lining."
Not all body types, however, can wear this style of coat. Girls that are bigger on the bottom should stray from babydolls to avoid looking boxy.
"Pear shapes should stay away from the babydolls and go for something that is longer and comes in at the waist," Kuhns said.
What I recommend: Renee C. by So Cool wool coat with tie in black and gray plaid, $68 at Metro.
Why: This babydoll take on a peacoat can be worn by almost all body types because of its tie at the waist. Big buttons, a round collar and bell sleeves in this season's popular plaid pattern make this coat a winner.
The Military Jacket
The double-breasted, square-shouldered coat is showing up in clothing stores downtown and is a big seller this season. Coming in darker colors, especially navy and black, this coat is versatile for everyday but can be dressed up.
This style coat, contrary to prior seasons, is being featured in longer, mid-calf lengths. It is one of the warmer options being featured this season and most styles are wool or wool blends, perfect for a colder, blustery day.
What I recommend: Tulle Military Wool Coat in navy, $85.90 at Mr. Charles.
Why: This is a classic military coat that fits with any ensemble. It's somewhat heavy duty with the wool and it would definitely keep any student warm on one of those colder Penn State days.
The Cropped Coat
Cropped coats have overtaken the blazer this season. They are mostly 3/4 sleeves, so they are in no way meant for warmth. Tweed, wool and twill are just a few fabrics that are being featured on these shortened coats.
"The biggest seller was probably the 3/4-sleeved cropped houndstooth," Cawthern said. "It sold out really quickly, it had a little round collar to it; we might be getting more of them back."
The cropped coat is the perfect finishing piece for any outfit and suitable for one of those warmer fall days.
What I recommend: Alice Temperley Melton Wool Cropped Jacket in Athens Blue, $44.99 at Target, 315 Colonnade Blvd.
Why: One of London's biggest designers has finally launched a discounted line at Target, and this shade of royal blue with ruffling is feminine yet sexy, like so many of her collection's pieces.
The Trench
The most flattering of all coats because of its elongating powers, this year's trench is sweeter with rounded collars and bigger buttons that tone down the city-slicker styled jacket.
Don't hesitate to spice up this style of coat trench by adding pins, broaches or wearing a scarf to spice up this classic.
Kuhns said a trench is perfect for those who want to flatter their waists and are bigger on the bottom. More petite girls should explore babydoll and cropped coats instead.
What I recommend: Fire Fox canvas trench in khaki, $58 at Metro.
Why: This is a really affordable price for a classic canvas trench coat with its big, tortoise shell buttons.
The Classic Wool Coat
This classic is anything but standard. Fur trims, loud colors and differing collar styles are just a few changes this winter staple has undergone.
Mr. Charles carries a variety of Tulle coats, a brand that practically specializes creating fashionable wool coats. Kuhns said this brand has been the major seller for the store and that she's noticed this year's coats are either extremely cropped or very long. Tulle's longer wool coats are featuring double-breasted styles, 3/4-length sleeves, houndstooth and mostly basic colors like black and gray, with the occasional red or more eccentric shade.
Collars have also nearly disappeared and have been replaced by a subtle mock-neck cut or nothing at all.
"It makes it easier to wear a scarf with," Kuhns said. She added that if there is a collar on a coat, it will most likely be more rounded.
Mariel Sylvis (senior-marketing), an employee at Connections, 130 S. Allen St., said the big seller is currently a long black-and-white houndstooth tweed coat by LEI that features a belt at the waist like a lot of coats this season.
"Coats can be so bulky, so a belt can make it look nicer and add a shape," Sylvis said.
What I recommend: Free People Army of Love Coat in cobalt, $228 at Connections
Why: Though this coat comes with quite a price tag, it will make a statement in this electric shade of blue. Unlike many styles featured this season, this coat has a hood with detachable faux fur lining, making this piece luxurious yet simultaneously practical.
