Ted Baker Papilon Coat

It’s definitely not cold enough yet to pull out the winter coat. Heck, I don’t know about you, but I’m still wearing capris and strappy sandals every chance I get. But as we head toward fall, the weather will start to get rainy, even if it’s not actually cold. You don’t want to wear a heavy coat when it’s still warm out just because it’s raining. But you also don’t want your clothes to get wet on your way into work, or wherever else you might be headed. The answer lies between a winter coat and nothing—a rain coat. There are a lot of styles out there, but I prefer a traditional trench coat. Well, maybe not so traditional since mine is pink, which you know if you’ve read my bio. To be honest, I think the traditional putty-colored trench makes everyone look like Columbo. They’re nice and all, but they’re sort of shapeless, and they can make even the fittest of us look, well, sort of frumpy. Not to worry. There are flattering trench coats out there. Ted Baker’s Papilon coat is just one example.

Not as bland as putty, but still neutral, the Papilon coat is black, which means it will go with just about everything in your closet. It’s 100 percent cotton, so you won’t get too warm wearing it, but it will still provide protection from the elements. The wrapover style is flattering to any figure, and gives it a very feminine silhouette. It has military-inspired epaulets, with front and back storm flaps. There’s a hidden two button closure, and a belt tie to keep the coat from swinging open in the wind. At 38 inches in length, that’s a definite possibility if the coat isn’t fastened. The button tab cuff is a nice touch, but my favorite part is the lining, which is a satiny green and purplish-grey striped fabric you have to see to appreciate. Now is the perfect time to add a rain coat to your wardrobe because the ones I found are on sale. The Papilon is normally $347, but you can get it right now for $224.86 at Zappos.com.

Budget Saving Alternatives

That’s a pretty reasonable price for anything from Ted Baker, but there’s no reason you can’t get a great rain coat for 100 dollars or less. Not to mention, a flashy, out-of-the ordinary coat. Check out this Hilary Radley Studio Double Breasted Fit & Flare coat. Whew, that’s a mouthful. What is it with these designers and their ridiculous names for things? I’m going to call it the F&F. The first thing you’ll notice is, it’s blue. But not just any blue. Electric blue. The rayon/polyester blend has been woven to give the fabric a brilliant sheen. There is no way anyone will be able miss you walking around in this coat, even on the stormiest of days. The F&F has a slim fit that accentuates the waist, then gently flares out. The front closes with six buttons, and inseam pockets will keep your keys dry and your hands warm. The collar and lapel are oversized for a modern look, and the back of the coat has an angled belt detail with a covered buckle. The lining is black, and the fabric is almost as dazzling as the shell. There is no mistaking the F&F for a plain old trench coat. If the electric blue is too much for you, it also comes in black, but it’s still just as shiny, so get over it and be bold. It was $229. It can be yours for just $101 at Zappos.com.

Hilary Radley knows coats. Also from her studio is this Wool Shirt Collar Belted Coat. Let’s go with the SC, shall we? Why do I like this coat? It’s red. I love my pink one, don’t get me wrong. And no, I’m not showing you my pink trench coat. You think I want a bunch of you running around in my coat? Because, trust me if you saw it, you’d totally want one. Maybe later. If you’re good. Anyway, sure, the SC is wool, but that just means it will take you from fall right into winter where it will not only protect you from the rain and snow, but keep you nice and toasty, too. Besides, it’s not 100 percent wool. There’s some nylon thrown in there to make it resistant to moisture. It has a single breasted button closure, and a removable belt. Cinch it at the waist for a nice hourglass shape, and the princess seams will only add to the effect. The shirt collar and single button closure at the cuff give it a classic look. What’s not classic is the lining. It’s an eye-popping print on satiny fabric that you have to see up close to appreciate. Add some spice to your fall wardrobe, at a price that’s too good to pass up. The SC normally retails for $254. It’s on sale now for—are you ready?—$95 at Zappos.com.