put a coat on it.

Coat: JCrew. Jeans: Hudson. Shoes: Payless. (similar.) Scarf: Old Navy. (similar.) Sweater: Loft. (similar.) Bag: Target. Sunglasses: H&M (similar.)

Raise your hand if it got like insanely frigid where you live over the last week.  Granted, we’ve had beautiful sunny weather here in Seattle and who’s going to complain about that this time of year, but good grief it’s been cold.  They weren’t kidding about that cold front.  This time of year, during that first really wicked cold, I start thinking about coats.  Coats are one of those things that I just die over.  It might be because they are so elusive to me (finding a coat that actually fits is nearly impossible when you’re super petite) but beautiful coats have always been my weakness.  Luckily, with more and more retailers offering great petite options for coats, especially online (hallelujah) I don’t have to just dream about them anymore.

I’ve learned over the years, that a great coat is a worthy investment.  Like a great pair of boots, or the right classic handbag, it’s worth spending a little more on.  A good coat will keep you insanely warm without adding extra bulk and will last for years and years to come.  And like all classic closet pieces, it should both fit and flatter you.  I bought this coat two winters ago, (you can still find it at J Crew) and I’ve never regretted it.  It’s not bulky in the slightest, but it’s by far the warmest coat I own.  I also love how long it is, it keeps me warm all the way down to my knees, and I love that it’s off white.  I’ve always had a thing for white coats.  And just in case you were wondering, it doesn’t get nearly as dirty as you think it will, I’ve only had to dry clean mine twice.  I love this coat, I wear it constantly during the cold months, and I know I will for years to come.

And for all my petite ladies out there, here’s the 411 on great coats for us tiny folks:

J Crew’s petite coats fit like a dream, Loft as well, and Banana Republic.  J Crew Factory, same great sizing and even better prices, plus they’ve got lots of great petite options.  So far, my luck with Anthropologie’s petite section has been superb, and I’ve never tried Asos’ petite coats, but I do know that the rest of the stuff I order from them fits really well, especially petite pieces, so I’m guessing the fit is good.

Gap’s petite sizing is dismal (which makes me want to cry because I love their stuff) but I find all their tops, and coats (petite and otherwise) are huge on me.  Old Navy is the same way, which is a shame, because they have some really cute trendier pieces this year that I love and are a great price (up to 50% off right now), but they are all huge on me.  And I’m just at that point in my 30’s where I don’t want to look like I borrowed my big sister’s coat, if you know what I mean.

Also, with regards to coats of the wool variety, if you’re oscillating between adding a blue or black coat to your closet this season, might I suggest this beauty as an alternative.  Grey is a great option because it’s versatile and can be worn with almost anything.  Also, I think it’s a little unexpected, and you know how much I love that.

Find all my favorite coats this season below, and let me know where you find your favorites.  Any other great places to find petite coats out there? (I’m always on the hunt.)

1,2,3,4,5,6,7

1,2,3,4

ps. J Crew is still having their 25% off sale (including their beautiful coats) until tonight: use code: SHOPNOW