Fashion & Style

No matter where you live, there are times when some sort of protection against the rain is required. Whether you live in the city or the country, a raincoat is a piece of apparel that often comes in handy. With so many choices available, it may seem challenging to choose just the right type of coat for your specific needs. Here is a guide to help you make your decision.

Raincoats can be as simple as a plastic poncho that you pick up at the dollar store in an emergency, or as important as a custom-made, tailored designer coat that can sell for thousands of dollars. In selecting a raincoat, consider your lifestyle. How will you be wearing this coat and for what occasions?

If the coat is to be worn for professional occasions, a tailored trench coat is the perfect choice. Trench coats are available with or without a lining and in a variety of colors. The standard is tan, but today’s coats are available in black, brown and even maroon. Normally, they are made using cotton or a cotton/polyester blend. Sometimes, a special coating is added to make the coat more water-resistant. Make sure to check the washing instructions on the coat. Some can be machine-washed, while others are considered dry clean only.

For a unique, individual look, consider an Australian duster. These coats, which were originally worn by Australian cowboys, have been citified and come in a variety of colors and fabrics. These coats are often made using coated canvas. They are impervious to water and wear quite well. However, they are not machine-washable. The climate is also a consideration. If you live in an area where the winters are harsh, a zip out lining is a must. A lined raincoat can transition from fall to winter to spring simply by removing the lining. Also, if you are traveling on business, the coat can quickly transform depending on the climate at your destination. A well-tailored trench adds polish to a business-man’s wardrobe as well as protecting from the rain.

Price varies according to a number of factors. British-made, tailored trench coats are pricey but well made, and have become a status symbol. But you don’t have to spend a fortune to buy a quality raincoat. If your budget does not accommodate such an extravagant purchase, try one of the online auctions and search for a coat by name. Chances are good that you will find a number of fine raincoats available for a fraction of the cost of buying a new one. You might also check out a consignment or thrift shop. You might be lucky enough to find an expensive raincoat for a bargain price. Sometimes department stores slash prices at the end of the season and you can pick up a real bargain. You just have to know when and where to look.

If you are not a businessperson or prefer to dress more casually, a short, hooded jacket may be a good choice. Short rain jackets are made in cotton, cotton blend, or nylon. These jackets are great for camping, golfing, hiking, running, and other outdoor activities, plus they pack well for travel and are usually machine-washable. For heavy rain, a slicker is the best choice. Slickers are generally made of rubber and can be either long or short. They are durable and offer great protection against the elements. Although yellow is the most popular color, slickers are available in many other colors as well. If you are going to be outside for extended periods of time in heavy rain, a slicker is the answer.

Ponchos are also great protection from the rain and can be purchased for very little money. Normally made of plastic, a poncho is a great choice when you find yourself needing something in a hurry. Often, the less expensive ponchos are designed to be worn once or twice. It is a good idea to have a poncho in your car trunk in the event of an emergency. Long or short, formal or casual, expensive or inexpensive, there are plenty of raincoats from which to choose. Make your selection based on your own personal requirements and you won’t go wrong.

By: Donna Reynolds