So here I am in a Burberry store near home to check out what makes a Burberry trench what it is. First thing to note, the sizing is British so don't be alarmed at the size number the sales person assesses you to be. I wanted to try a black or stone color as the. classic khaki is not so flattering for my skin tone. They had neither in store so the sales associate suggested the military red (shown above) in this style, just to try for size. And in addition, she picked out a different style trench in black to look for the ideal fit. Now normally I do not do red. I prefer subtlety, neutrals. So off to the fitting room. I am wearing a roomy sweater that day with skinny jeans and sneakers which I think were perfect in hindsight. If the trench could look elegant and yet fit in with the casual attire, how much better it would look dressed up or for work?
Phenomenal!!! This trench style as explained by the associate is a more fitted style, more feminine in cut. The size 8 I tried on was roomy enough to accommodate movement around the arms and shoulders while wearing the sweater, fitting the bust, waist and hips comfortably without extra width that can sometimes make a trench gather up around the waist when belted and flare too widely like a tent on the hips. And mid thigh was the perfect length for me. Again, proportions. The sleeves were slim without being tight. And...around the neck. The coat is designed to be able to stand the collar up as shown in the picture. That stiff collar that can stand on it's own without crowding the neck. A fitted coat with an open neckline! Amazing. As I looked at myself in the mirror, I was happily surprised by the red. It looked so good against my skin and not too loud since color seemed to have a hint of brown tint to it. This red could be a neutral for me, I thought! Much like a perfect red lipstick. The associate produced a silk scarf to coordinate with the coat which sent the overall look up above amazing. I was hooked. I finally tried on the boxier, classic style in black, the color I was originally looking for. There was no contest. Oh, and she showed me a neat trick. The lapels of the coat can be buttoned back to wear it open. Ha! I haven't seen that with other coats.
So what did I learn?
1. Don't ever compromise on the fit of your garments. They have to suit your proportions or else it's a complete waste of money. While clothing can be easily altered, coats, not so much! Hold out for the best. Even if it costs a small fortune, you will get your monies worth in wear over time.
2. Pay no attention to size numbers. Every manufacturer has their own system for sizing, so it is never consistent. What matters most is how it fits. You can always rip the size tag out if it bothers you that much. But to go back to the first rule, that is what matters most.
3. Be open to suggestions. I went in looking for a specific color which was practical and safe. Who knew that the girl who does not do red would fall in love with a red coat. I could still play it safe and go with a neutral but it wouldn't be love. And for the price, I better love it.
4. And finally, speaking of price. Yes a Burberry trench is pricey. There are many offerings on the market at lower price points. But here's the thing...do you love it? Whatever choice you make, I would hope you plan on keeping this coat around for a while. If you don't love it, then why buy it?
I am saving up for this coat. (Saving for it keeps the energy clean (I read that somewhere.)) And I know I will be really happy with my choice... And the scarf too!
