Ah, fall. The season of adorable mini pumpkins and mass confusion over what to wear. Do you go for warmth or style? What if you want both? Thankfully, there is one cozy autumn staple made to solve this awkward conundrum. That is, the coatigan. With incredible versatility, this transition lifesaver is perfect for everything from work to family apple picking. Whether you’re a seasoned coatigan connoisseur or still in the dark, take time out of your busy day for a toasty cup of tea and some core tips.
1. All About Base Layers
2. Play With Pattern
3. Go for Contrast
4. Build a Colour Palette
1. All About Base Layers
The first tip is to think about coatigan styling through the lens of practicality. Like its namesake, this easy top layer is a cross between a coat and a long cardigan. Something you can wear indoors or out and layer over anything. To steer you in the right direction, start by considering your base layer.
Make the versatility of the coatigan really work by wearing it over a high neck top. For example, the gathered folds of a cowl neck sweater mimic a scarf by filling up an open neckline. In terms of warmth, you’ll be getting cozy coverage without spending ten minutes looking for said scarf (which has gone missing yet again). Likewise, a mock neck top will combine to create the perfect balance of comfort and fashion.
2. Play With Pattern
Yes, it’s fall, but that doesn’t mean you have to be married to plaid. Because the coatigan doesn’t venture too far into coat territory, they are available in a wider variety of patterns and details that you can take advantage of. Bring some delicate curved lines into the mix with a feminine paisley motif. This example features a touch of rich auburn that perfectly matches the sweater underneath. Can’t let go of your plaid? Then look for unique details like a grommet front for a style that’s all your own.
3. Go for Contrast
If you simply can’t make up your mind between all the patterns and details, think simple and use contrast as your golden rule. Take advantage of an open front by creating a contrast base layer. In this case, a black or white turtleneck is your new best friend. Building contrast will really highlight the pattern and silhouette of the coatigan itself and is an easy way to pull together an intentional outfit. Depending on how much contrast you create with your first layer, you can end up with a look that is more or less bold.
4. Build a Colour Palette
Finally, one last core tip before you’re off to google soup recipes… Another way to achieve cohesion is by identifying a colour palette. An easy way to do this is to group together colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel. Warm colours will go with warm, and cool with cool. This luxuriously soft coatigan features cool purple shades that match the cool tone blue shirt that is peeking out from underneath. If you prefer something more neutral, creamy whites and beige are a polished way to go.
Now that you have some inspiration, we would love to hear how you will be styling your coatigans this season. Drop us a comment or share your own tips in the comments below!
