Dos and Don’ts: Outerwear

Don’t wear a puffy jacket with a suit.
Inappropriate outerwear is one surefire way to ruin the look of a nice suit. Parkas and puffy jackets should never be worn with a suit. Opt, instead, for a classic wool or cashmere topcoat in colder months, or a basic black or tan raincoat in warmer months.

Do own one basic black coat.
The most versatile and functional coat every man should have in his closet is a three-quarter-length raincoat in black. It will look stylish over a suit and jeans, plus most raincoats feature a removable liner, which makes them the ideal year-round layering piece.

Do store your coats properly.
When not in use, hang your coats on cedar hangers inside a garment bag or store them in a plastic bin with cedar balls. This will prolong the life of your outerwear and prevent odors.

Do dress for the weather.
Wool and cashmere are your best bets for winter weather. Leave leather and suede jackets in the closet when it’s raining or extremely cold. High-quality nylon raincoats or classic trench coats are appropriate layering pieces for most seasons.

Don’t wear an inner layer that’s longer than your outerwear.
The outside layer should always be longer than the inside layer. The sleeves and hem of your outerwear should cover whatever you’re wearing underneath.

Don’t dry your outerwear on a radiator.
If you get caught in an unexpected downpour, air dry your outerwear– including leather jackets, wool coats, and microsuede or nylon jackets–in a well-ventilated area. And if you own a leather jacket, remember to condition it at least every other year to prevent cracking and dryness.

The right outerwear can last a lifetime, so visit a Men’s Wearhouse store near you to consult an expert Wardrobe Consultant for style advice and help achieving that perfect fit.

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