Number Three

In all of the many Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis biographies I've read, I have always centered on what she wore. Though a definite lover of couture (Givenchy, Chanel), Mrs. Kennedy chose the somewhat unknown Oleg Cassini to design her White House wardrobe. Of course the gowns were the main attraction, but the First Lady wanted the designer to pay special attention to her outerwear. Mrs. Kennedy knew that crowds and photographs would often be of her in outerwear (airports, public appearances) and she knew a tailored coat would create the best first impression.

Coats and jackets are often the first garment people notice when they take in your appearance. I know I'm biased, but I never fail to appreciate a well-made coat or jacket when I see one. These ever-versatile garments can either make or break an outfit in one fell swoop.



The rules for outerwear:

1- Trenches are in a class by themselves (See Number Seven)
2- The big three colors: black, gray, and camel.
3- Length is very important. Bolero jackets are very fashionable when trying to dress up an outfit but should never go above the bottom of the shoulder blade. I also never buy coats that go below two inches under the knees.
4- Leather jackets are (mostly) acceptable if they are hip length, black or dark brown, and never ever fringed in any manner. (An acceptable is pictured below)
5- Never be afraid to replace buttons on a coat so that it has more allure. Gold buttons on a black military style coat kills me every time.
6- I enjoy a coat that nips in at the waistline so that you have a better silhouette.



I'll admit it, coats and jackets are my weakness. I have thirty (ish) but I definitely wear some more than others. One is a gray, military style coat I got in London ten years ago. Another is a gorgeous black wool with mink collar I bought at a vintage store for $45. Yet another, is a black leather jacket that I wore for Halloween as a World War I Flying Ace. So, for me every time I wear one of those pieces I'm reminded of something pleasant.

Photo sources:
here, here, and here