How to Pull Off Fall’s Trickiest Outerwear Trend

When it comes to topcoats, there are two standard lengths. One that hits just above the knee and one that hits mid-calf or longer. The latter is the trickiest to pull off, if only because you run the risk of looking like Neo in The Matrix or John Cusack in Say Anything, which probably isn’t quite what you’re going for. If you’ve fallen in love with a longer coat, or are just determined to stay warm this winter at all costs, here’s what you need to know about pulling off the look.

Get the fit right.No matter what the silhouette of the coat is, it needs to fit in the shoulders and the sleeves need to rest just below your wrists. Getting this right will mean the difference between looking like a cool kid and looking like an actual kid.

Be strategic about fabric choice.Wear suits to the office? Try a sporty-fabric coat. Big into jogger pants? Go for wool or cashmere. A bit of contrast is what makes this jacket look extra cool so think about your everyday style and maybe choose something slightly off from that.

Be a little bit punk about it. A buttoned-up shirt, skinny jeans and lace-up boots might not feel like much of a statement but when you throw on an extra-long topcoat, it takes on an ‘80s punk vibe that is all kinds of right. That said, avoid all-black looks and round sunglasses so you don't skew too steampunk.

Know when to pull back.Volume is a big trend in menswear right now and larger-than-life coats are part of the deal. When you’re working with these shapes the coat should hit just below your knee—any longer and it may end up looking like you wore your bedspread to work.

When in doubt, add a beanie.A calf-grazing coat can verge on too serious and we love how a beanie takes the piss out of the whole thing. Plus, add a denim jacket or a sporty down shell underneath and you’ll be able stretch topcoat season straight on through March.