Ask Chris Black: What Non-Puffer Coat Should I Get? | The Strategist

Nov 05, 2024

12 items in this article

12 items in this article

Chris Black has returned to the Strategist with a monthly column to answer all of your burning questions, from super-specific style predicaments to workout and tennis recs to foolproof host-gift ideas that will get you invited back to the beach house.

I must be honest with you, chief. I am not sure what a “sports scientist” is, but that is something we can avoid. As the temperatures drop, the scramble to find the perfect coat is very real. I think I found a handful of different options. Hopefully, one will scratch the itch.

I just love the length of this bad boy. It will protect you from the elements down to your ankles. It’s not super-warm, but you can put a sweater or flannel underneath and be good to go.

This windowpane raglan wool overcoat from New York’s Wythe is more fun than the traditional black, navy, or camel color but still very wearable on a day-to-day basis. It also features a nice substantial collar that is easily flipped up to protect your neck if the wind is whipping.

This jacket from London-based Carter Young has a comfortable and relaxed slightly cropped fit and features a two-way zipper and storm flap. It also has lots of pockets because carrying a tote bag in cold temperatures truly sucks.

This is a warm-down jacket disguised as a cool garment-dyed parka. It’s from Stone Island, so you know the quality is impeccable, and the fit will be on point. It is waterproof and also has a hood, so you can honestly wear it anywhere.

I used to be anti-belt, but then I realized that, unlike jewelry, it is an essential accessory that serves a purpose. Overpriced logo-clad designer belts are corny, so let’s go with something more subtle. Here, we have plenty of options for all occasions.

Western-style belts are all the rage because they are timeless and can be dressed up or dressed down. This one from Maximum Henry is made from 100 percent Belgian vegetable-tanned leather and is offered in 15 colors. You can even monogram it!

Sid is the go-to for standards, and this belt is no different. The tobacco suede is the perfect shade to wear with jeans, and it will age beautifully over time. It features an unlacquered brass buckle that can be swapped if you want to add a buckle with a little more flair.

My dad always rocked a braided leather belt, so I have a particular affinity for them. This one is made from heavy-duty British leather and has a solid brass buckle. It will look relaxed but not sloppy.

On the surface, this belt looks super-straightforward, but the good Brits at Mr. Porter actually got busy with the suede color options. Choose from a lovely rich green, subtle cream, or navy to spruce up any bland trousers.

Not surprisingly, I have many feelings about robes. I would never wear one at home (I run hot), but they are handy when staying at a hotel. Of course, I get the appeal and want you to lounge in something you feel comfortable in. We will avoid anything silky or sexy; I don’t think you are going for Hugh Hefner.

Tekla is the go-to for towels and sheets, but the robes are fantastic. Made from terry, they have nice big hoods to keep that noggin covered. I love this blue with white stripes, not boring but not loud.

I am a sucker for a black-watch pattern, and this robe is no different. I can see you throwing this bad boy on with some nice slippers and grabbing the newspaper from your lightly snowed-in porch with a steaming cup of third-wave coffee in hand.

If you want to make a statement, this is the robe for you. Missoni is the family-owned brand that has been around since 1953 and it is beloved for its patterns, like this zigzag motif. This jacquard-woven robe has giant pockets, a belt, and a hood — luxury knows no bounds.

This one is a little lighter, made from 50 percent natural linen and 50 percent cotton, which feels easier to lounge in. It has slit pockets and a pattern-corresponding belt and comes in a few colors. I am partial to the olive.

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