I love coats! I think they can look so sleek and stylish, and throwing on a great coat, even if you’re just wearing jeans and a T-shirt, gives you an instant shot of glamour and mystery. But here’s the problem: I live in L.A. You only need a coat maybe two, three months out of the year - and even then you could probably skate by with a nice, warm hoodie. My point is, coats aren’t a necessity here, so it’s hard to justify their standard triple-digit price tag. Still, every fall I finding myself lusting after coats, and this year I’m particularly coveting a peacoat. Peacoats are perfect for that throwing-on-over-jeans thing, and they’re usually the perfect combo of masculine (double-breasted, collar, bold buttons) and feminine (nipped-in waist and flared hem) elements. Here are three that I found that look cute, are probably sufficiently warm for southern California, and, remarkably, cost less than $100.
On the left, we have the Meduza Coat from ModCloth.com, one of my favorite websites for adorable, unique-looking clothes with a vintage flair. I love the plaid/floral pattern (aptly termed "attic chic" on the website) and the mid-thigh length. The price? $84.99. Delia*s Classic Peacoat in charcoal gray is shown in the middle. This one has a very military vibe, and it comes in a rainbow of colors (black, gray, crimson and emerald). It’s also on clearance, which means it now costs a mere $39.99. Of course, a bargain fashion post just wouldn’t be a bargain fashion post without a plug for Forever 21, so here it is: The black-and-white houndstooth coat on the right is super cute, and a steal at $54.80.
I see all of these with dark, skinny jeans or dark tights and a skirt or dress just an inch or two longer than the hem of the coat, and ballet flats. (The houndstooth coat would look particularly great with a pair of red shoes or a red bag!) So rejoice, fellow coat lovers in warmer climates! You can now indulge your fall fantasies without causing too much damage to your credit card.




