The Ultimate Guide to Buying Vintage Coats in 2024

February 8, 2022

When it comes to acquiring vintage coats, contemporary pieces simply can't compete. New items may have their appeal, but let's face it – they're just trends. Investing in vintage coats not only eliminates the need for annual replacements but also ensures unparalleled quality that stands the test of time, both in style and durability. Every fashion-conscious individual should have at least one vintage coat in their collection.

However, delving into the world of vintage shopping, whether you're a novice or a seasoned pro, can be a daunting task. The challenge intensifies when you're on the hunt for vintage coats in impeccable condition, free from unpleasant odors and damaged linings – a crucial aspect of satisfying retail therapy.

To streamline your journey and spare you the hassle of endless internet searches for the perfect vintage coat, we've curated the ultimate guide for purchasing vintage coats in 2022 and beyond.

Key considerations when shopping for vintage coats:

1. The Smell Test:
Conduct a sniff test to identify potential issues. Be on the lookout for moldy/musky odors or the notorious mothball scent, a repellent against pests but an unpleasant chemical smell that's nearly impossible to eliminate. Rest assured, our curated coats are free from such undesirable fragrances.

2. Check the Lining:
Examine the lining for any rips or tears, as these are usually reparable.

3. Shoulder Pads:
Don't let shoulder pads deter you. They can be easily removed, often enhancing the garment's shape without them.

4. Inspect Pockets:
Take a careful look inside pockets to avoid any unpleasant surprises before making a purchase.

5. Look for a Union Made Tag:
The Union Made Tag, with its various colors and styles since 1900, serves as a vintage indicator. A coat adorned with this tag is a timeless piece.

Trust us when we say the ten coats highlighted below are not just stunning; they are timeless. Discover your coat soulmate, knowing you'll be the sole owner within a 2000-mile radius. Elevate all your outfits with these exclusive vintage finds. Cheers to a wardrobe upgrade!

The Classic Trench Coat

For rookies to the vintage coat life, a classic trench coat is a great place to start. Perfect for winter in warmer climates like LA or spring/fall time in NYC. Whenever your outfits feel a bit meh, just throw it on to get an instant boost.

Pro tip: Opt for a trench coat in a darker shade like the CC Grey Trench Coat to have a coat that goes with literally everything.

The Colorpop Coat

If you're not the type to shy away from color and you love some color serotonin on dreary winter days, then go for a bright colored coat like this Cherry Red Wool Coat. Wool coats keep you warm and with this color, all eyes will be on you and compliments guaranteed!

Pro tip: When going for an oversized look, buy a coat that is one size larger than your original size and if the sleeves are too long, simply roll them up for a cool idgaf casual look.

The 70s Fur Coat

For the bohemian at heart, a 70's fur patchwork coat like our Vintage Muskat Chocolate Fur Coat will make you feel like you got teleported back to 1977 grabbing a freshly pressed Rumours record by Fleetwood Mac while sipping a coke out of a glass bottle.

Pro Tip: If you opt for fur, always go for vintage as it is the most sustainable option. It already exists and dosn't fund the fur industry plus it is being kept out of landfills and can be passed down for generations.

The Bouclé Coat

Inspired by menswear tailoring and a boxy fit, a Bouclé Coat is perfect for girls who love to add some texture to their outfits.

Pro tip: Grab yourself a vintage coat with deep pockets like this Speckled Bouclé Coat, so you can store your phone and do your hands a favor by keeping them warm on the go.

The Classic Camel Coat

If flashy is so not your style and you'd rather indulge in classic neutrals, then camel coats like this stylish Camel Berlin Coat is the way to go. Timeless and no drama necessary.

Pro tip: Pair a camel coat with any color and pattern you already have in your closet.

The Utilitarian Coat

Clean androgynous lines and structure are what define utilitarian style. So if you love any fit with a military flair to it, then go for vintage coats like our Olive Trench Coat to add a badass feel to your everyday essentials.

Pro Tip: A utilitarian coat looks best a bit oversized.

The Teddy Bear Coat

If COZY was a coat, this Dark Chocolate Teddy Bear Coat would be it. Like a trusted blanket, a teddy bear coat is perfect for fall and staying snugly warm in the dreary winter months.

Pro Tip: Layer a pair nude fleece leggings under black sheer tights so you can wear your favorite dresses under your coat even in the cold winter months.

The Short Coat

For vintage-heads living in places where you can get away with not covering your butt without freezing in the winter, short coats like this Sand Herringbone Coat will do the trick! And for out NYC gals, this is your must-have Spring/Fall Coat.

Pro Tip: Short coats add a professional look to any outfit, so they are perfect for your important business meetings.

The Plush Coat

Plush coats are like the baby sister of teddy bear coats. Whether you're a Romantic, Bohemian or Vintage Femme Style Type, a Plush Coat is a must-have for your closet.

Pro Tip: A plush coat is a statement piece in itself and can easily be dressed down with jeans, a turtleneck and boots or dressed up with a floral dress and chunky heels.

The Persian Wool Coat

The Persian wool coat is the best pick if you're living in freezing climate and want to be cozy and warm while being out and about but want to look stylish instead of silly in a puffer coat. These coats are made out of very high quality vintage wool, with a dash of exclusivity.

Pro Tip: Go for a solid color like this Wool Persian Lamb Berlin Coat, so you don't have to worry about it not fitting in your wardrobe color palette.