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Reitmans (Canada) Limited | 250 Sauvé West | Montreal, QC | H3L 1Z2 | www.rw‑co.com
What to Look For
in a Wool Coat:
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Wool Jacket
When the cold weather starts to set in, there’s
nothing quite like wrapping yourself in a wool
coat’s timeless warmth and elegance.
With decades of expertise in the field, we’re here
to guide you through everything you need to know about choosing,
styling and caring for your wool coat, ensuring it
remains a beloved part of your cold-weather wardrobe for years!
Why Choose a
Wool Coat?
Wool coats have been a timeless choice in winter wardrobes for centuries—and for good reason!
They offer a unique combination of warmth, durability and timeless style that few other fabrics can match.
Wool is an excellent choice for dressing up for a special occasion or needing a reliable coat for everyday wear.
The benefits of wool
Exceptional warmth and insulation
Wool fibres trap heat in tiny air pockets, offering outstanding warmth in cold conditions. This natural insulation ensures you stay comfortable without needing excessive layers.
Breathability, moisture management and odor resistance
Wool absorbs up to 30% of its weight in moisture while remaining dry to the touch, helping regulate body temperature by wicking sweat away. Additionally, lanolin in wool has antibacterial properties that prevent odor buildup, keeping your coat fresher for longer.
Durability, longevity and timeless style
High-quality wool coats are elastic and resistant to wear and tear, maintaining their shape and appearance. Wool is also less prone to wrinkling, ensuring a sharp look even after extended wear.
With its classic and sophisticated design, a wool coat is a versatile investment that enhances any wardrobe.
Wool vs other fabrics
Wool vs synthetic fabrics
Synthetics like polyester and nylon are affordable and water-resistant but lack wool's breathability and moisture-wicking properties. Synthetic fibres can trap odours and may not provide the same warmth.
Wool vs cotton
Cotton is soft and breathable but lacks wool insulation and can become heavy and uncomfortable when wet.
Wool vs down
Down jackets are lightweight and warm but lose insulation when wet. Wool retains its insulating properties even when moist, and some people prefer it for ethical reasons due to concerns about the down industry’s animal well-being practices.
How to Choose the
Perfect Wool Coat
Choosing the perfect wool coat involves considering various factors to ensure you get a jacket that meets your needs and preferences:
Understanding different types of wool
Merino wool is soft and comfortable, providing excellent insulation while remaining lightweight. It’s ideal for everyday wear and layering, is breathable and is less prone to pilling.
Cashmere is luxuriously soft and warm. It offers superior insulation but is more expensive and requires gentle care to maintain its quality.
Alpaca wool is known for its silky texture and warmth. It is lighter and warmer than sheep’s wool. It’s hypoallergenic, great for sensitive skin and durable with minimal pilling.
Finding the right fit
Menswear wool coats should balance a tailored fit and enough room for layering. Key points to consider include:
Shoulders
The coat should sit comfortably on your shoulders without being too tight or loose.
Sleeves
The coat should sit comfortably on your shoulders without being too tight or loose.
Length
The coat length can vary from mid-thigh to knee-length, depending on personal preference and style.
Key points to consider for womenswear wool coats include:
Shoulders and bust
Ensure the coat fits nicely across the shoulders and bust without pulling or gaping.
Waist
Look for coats that accentuate the waistline for a flattering silhouette.
Length
Womenswear coats can range from hip-length to full-length, depending on the desired look and function.
Selecting the right
style for your body
type
Classic cuts like the single-breasted or double-breasted coats offer timeless appeal. They suit most body types and are versatile for various occasions. These styles provide a structured look, making them ideal for professional and casual settings.
Modern trends include oversized coats, cocoon shapes and wrap styles. These add a contemporary twist to your wardrobe.
Considering the
climate and occasion
Everyday wear
Opt for a versatile coat that balances style and practicality. Mid-weight wool fabric coats with a classic cut are ideal, as they can be dressed up or down and provide sufficient warmth for daily activities.
Formal events
Consider a wool coat with a sophisticated design, such as a tailored cashmere coat or a long, sleek alpaca wool coat. These styles offer an elegant appearance suitable for business meetings, formal dinners and special occasions.
Extreme cold
For cold days, prioritize warmth and insulation. Look for coats with additional features such as a higher wool content, inner linings and longer lengths to provide maximum coverage. Merino wool and alpaca wool coats are excellent due to their superior insulating properties.
Styling Your Wool
Jacket
Styling with Womenswear
Casual daytime looks
Pair your wool coat with skinny jeans, ankle boots, and a cozy sweater for a relaxed daytime look. Opt for neutral-coloured coats like grey or camel, which are versatile and easy to style. A wool coat with a belt can accentuate your waist, adding a touch of femininity to your casual ensemble.
Elegant evening outfit
Elevate your evening attire by choosing a sleek, tailored black or deep navy wool coat. Pair it with a bit of black dress or a sophisticated jumpsuit, and complete the look with heeled boots or elegant pumps. A cashmere or alpaca wool coat adds a luxurious touch, perfect for formal dinners or night outings.
Accessorizing your wool coat
Consider adding a stylish scarf, a chic hat or a pair of leather gloves. A statement handbag can also complement your look.
Styling with Menswear
Professional and business casual
For a professional look, wear your wool coat over a tailored suit. Choose classic colours like black, charcoal or navy for a polished appearance. Pairing your coat with dress shoes and a briefcase completes the business-ready look. For business casual, layer your coat over a turtleneck sweater and chinos..
Weekend and casual outfits
Pair your wool coat with dark jeans, a simple t-shirt or sweater, and casual boots for a casual weekend outfit. A car coat style works well for a laid-back, stylish look. Neutral tones or subtle plaids can add a touch of interest without being too formal.
Accessorizing your wool coat
Try accessorizing your wool coats with scarves, hats and gloves. For added warmth and style, opt for a wool or cashmere scarf. A beanie or flat cap can provide a casual touch, while leather gloves add sophistication.
Caring for Your Wool Coat
Cleaning and maintenance
How to wash wool coats: Most wool coats should be dry-cleaned, but if you prefer hand-washing, use cold water and a mild wool detergent. Soak gently, rinse thoroughly and press out excess water with a towel. Lay flat to dry. Most wool coats should be dry-cleaned, but if you prefer hand-washing, use cold water and a mild wool detergent. Soak gently, rinse thoroughly and press out excess water with a towel. Lay flat to dry.
Spot cleaning tops: Blot stains with a clean cloth and cold water, and avoid rubbing to prevent damage. For tougher stains, use a small amount of wool detergent. Test on an inconspicuous area first, blot gently and rinse. Pat dry with a towel.
Proper storage
Clean your coat before storing it. Use a breathable garment bag and avoid plastic.
Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, with cedar blocks or lavender sachets to repel moths.
Handling common issues
Dealing with pilling
Remove pills with a fabric shaver or a pumice stone. Glide gently over the affected area to restore smoothness. The good news is that our wool quality is tested extensively in-house for pilling resistance.
Fixing minor tears and damage
Use a matching thread and sew carefully from the inside for minor tears. For significant damage, seek professional tailoring.
FAQ
What is a good percentage of wool in a coat?
A good wool percentage in a coat is typically 70% or higher. This ensures optimal warmth, durability and breathability while often blending with synthetic fibres for added strength and reduced cost.
How can you tell if a wool coat is good quality?
A good-quality wool coat feels soft and smooth, has tight, even stitching and has a high wool content (preferably over 70%). Look for reputable brands such as RW&CO., check the lining and ensure it has a solid weight and structure.
Should I buy a 100% wool coat?
A 100% wool coat offers superior warmth and breathability but can be heavier and require more care. Blends (with at least 70% wool) can be more durable and easier to maintain while providing good warmth.
What kind of wool coat is the warmest?
The warmest wool coats are typically made from high-quality, dense wool like merino or alpaca. These wools provide excellent insulation and retain heat efficiently, making them ideal for extreme cold weather conditions.
RW&CO.: the best brand for warm
and quality wool coats
Our wool coats are top-notch for their quality and warmth. They feature strong stitching and durable buttons, plus some styles include extra insulation for cold days.
With high wool content to resist pilling and great moisture-wicking, these coats keep you cozy and dry all winter!
Available in various warmth levels, RW&CO.'s coats are perfect for any weather, combining style, comfort, and lasting value.
