How to Wear a Classic Men's Peacoat
T&C's fashion team styles eight fresh outfits with this wardrobe staple.
The peacoat originated as a piece of functional outerwear nearly three centuries ago to protect European and America sailors from harsh wind, heavy rain and cold temperatures at sea. It is always double-breasted, shorter than a traditional overcoat, and has broad lapels that can be buttoned up. In more modern times, peacoats have been adopted by civilians and remain a popular option season after season. It’s a true classic and few clothing items have remained as on-trend as the peacoat for hundreds of years.
So, how do you wear it in 2021? Start with everything that goes underneath—layering is a key element to any successful winter weather outfit. It begins with a sweater or a shirt, possibly another jacket, then a scarf, and rest will follow. It’s worth investing in a good peacoat, since it will inevitably remain popular for decades to come. Below are eight outfit ideas to style a peacoat to perfection.
Add Denim
Two coats are better than one. Stay warm while still looking put together by layering a denim jacket underneath your coat. Keep the bulkiness at bay by starting with a thin sweater as your base layer, then a light denim jacket, then a peacoat.
Play with Patterns
A bright scarf against a dark coat is always a nice touch. Bruce Springsteen has an effortless way of showing off his creative flare with this patterned red scarf and aviator shades. Tuck in a bold scarf and even the most neutral outfit will pop.
Don Head-to-Toe Black
Take it from New Yorker—you can never go wrong with black. Keep it sleek and simple with a turtleneck under your coat and a pair of dark denim. Shiny loafers will complete an ensemble that can go anywhere.
Go Sporty (But Chic)
Enliven a classic style with an element of surprise. Michael B. Jordan demonstrates this perfectly with a subtly patterned sweater and white high-top sneakers.
Keep it Classic
A peacoat with gold buttons will be a closet staple for years to come. Wear it over a blue button-up shirt, striped tie, and gray trousers for a look that will have you on the best-dressed list anywhere you go.
Stay Buttoned-Up
For the days when the wind won’t stop blowing, make sure to button that coat all the way to the top. Popping the collar will help keep your neck warm and changes the silhouette slightly.
Try Color-Coordinating
To make a full-on fashion statement, match a colored peacoat to other items in your wardrobe. Here, the burgundy coat coordinates with the blazer and brogues, while lighter pants and a white shirt break up the monochrome look. Introducing a small pop of another hue, like this blue tie, makes things even more interesting.
Layer it On
If you prefer to avoid wearing a bulky coat in the colder months, consider layering a jacket (or two) under your peacoat. Pairing with jeans and sneakers will ensure ultimate comfort as you jet from place to place.
MaryKate Boylan is Town & Country’s Senior Fashion Editor, writing about all things fashion and jewelry.
Emma is a Freelance Fashion Assistant at Town & Country, where she helps out with all things fashion and accessories for both print and digital.
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