Searching for the Perfect Vintage Spring Coat

Spring is always an awkward time of year for the weather. Only last week we had a day where we experienced sun, rain, hail, snow, thunder and lightening and high winds all within the space of a few hours. It’s about now that I start struggle with what coat to wear and, as usual, I always end up with the wrong one on. So, as I plan to visit quite a few vintage fairs within the next few weeks, I have made it my mission to find myself a decent spring coat. However, before I set off I need to know what sort of thing I should be looking for.

I could, of course, go for a 1940s rain mac which would be perfect for keeping me dry during the April showers

The Montgomery Ward Catalog for Fall & Winter of 1946-1947

Or perhaps even a 1960s one. Yeah, maybe not!

I do love long coats as they cover long skirts, keeping the legs warm when the temperature decides to unexpectedly drop. The 1950s produced a lot of different coat styles such as the classic New Look nipped in waist and full skirt,

and the Duster Coat, perfect for those days when you just want to cover up

1950s Duster Coat – Simplicity Pattern 3573

For the mid-length styles there’s one of my favourites, the Cocoon Coat, which looks beautiful with a tight pencil skirt or capri pants,

Cristóbal Balenciaga 1951

the Swing Coat for those days when you just want a bit of swish in your tail,

the sharp and stylish Trapeze Coat for dressier days

Or the figure hugging Peplum style which goes with just about anything.

And the 60s rejuvenated the boxy Chanel style with its round neckline (love the optional snood!)

But if it is just too warm for a coat I could go for a jacket, perhaps a cape collared one

Or one that fits perfectly to the waist, ideal for full circle skirts

Or I could be brave and try and knit one!

1950’s Knitted Jacket – Bernat Handicrafter Book No. 51

And, of course, I couldn’t forget the humble cape, either in an elegant 1950s style

Or the beautiful 1940s Nurses cape with its bright red lining (which my mum wore in the 60s).

Who knows what I’ll find on my travels but if I complete my mission, and find that perfect Spring coat, I’ll update you in a future post.