how to update that old coat of yours…

just like shoes…i feel one can never have too many coats…but that is just me…i happen to really love coats…but whether you have one or two…or like me…too many to mention…they are a big investment…and not one that you get rid of year after year…

so if you’ve got some old coats hanging in your closet…and they happen to be in great condition…but maybe…you are just a tad bit bored with them…why not update them? make them “new” again…

one of my favorite fashion tidbits: want to spruce up an old coat? add a fabulous big belt or some new buttons to create a brand new piece…

those are two very easy ways to update an old coat…sometimes the belt might not work…it really depends on how thick your coat is…but the buttons? the options are limitless…have you ever taken a look at the rows and rows of buttons offered? you can go vintage…modern…and everything in between…

i thought i would offer up a few more options…sometimes what worked before…may seem dated now…for example…sometimes…the sleeves can be changed…how about making the sleeves 3/4? and then style this with some long leather gloves? or work with the length of the coat…perhaps shortening it will give you more options…

depending on the style of the coat…sometimes (with the help of a tailor) the collar can be re-shaped…or be adventurous…hunt through a local antique, vintage or thrift store for a fur collar…it can easily be attached to the current collar…

small embellishments work wonders as well…sometimes…something as simple as adding a vintage brooch to your coat…or step out of the box…and add a cluster of three…tre chic!

most recent update that i saw…by a fellow image consultant…one of her clients had an old boxy jacket (more of a blazer jacket)…so they cut of the sleeves…tapered in the sides…and made a very classy vest…added a nice thick belt…and voila! a whole new piece to a current wardrobe…

while i am an advocate for getting rid of items in your closet that you know in your heart of hearts you will never wear again…there are those items that may not be right as they are…but can be “fixed” to be one of your favorite pieces…

have you ever updated an old coat? what tricks did you use?