The Camel Coat

Things that I did and did not accomplish in 2016:

DID:
1. Start blogging
2. Get CPA license
3. Remove wisdom teeth

DID NOT:
1. Start investing
2. Get driver’s license
3. Buy a camel coat

Though seemingly trivial, items #3 from both lists are the most significant in their category. I’ve been putting off getting my wisdom teeth removed for almost four years, proving that you can be 27 and still an awfully irresponsible adult. And since the winter began, I’ve browsed over 30 stores, both online and off, for that dang camel coat. Zara dropped the shoulders too far. COS dyed the wool a bit too dark. And All Saints made me feel like I was just coming out of a bubble bath.

Lucky for me, 2017 is shaping up to be the year 2016 never was. A year where hopes and dreams come true, instead of nightmarish realities (stay in your homes on Jan 20!). Baited by the massive SALE signs on Massimo Dutti’s window panes, I walked into their Antwerp store, perusing the racks for a low-key low-price winner. Instead, being the irresponsible adult that I am, I fell in love with a mannequin standing in the New Collection section, a casual camel coat laid atop her shoulders. Damn all you visual merchandisers, you trap my ass everytime.

THE UTILITY:

A good coat says all the things that you don’t need to. I’m sharp, I’m elegant, I’m a complex woman covering many layers. Such is the unwitting charm of outerwear. When the color black is too common, white too high-maintenance, camel is the perfectly underrated and fashion-forward choice. Watch as it finishes any professional look with immediate grace. Also note that you can wear the coat with sneakers and ripped jeans on weekends for that cool look of comfort.

Oh and P.S., my leisure look includes the striped top from this blog post, and my professional one grabs the a-line skirt from this post. Utilita State is all about re-wearing and repurposing clothes that you already own, so sift through your wardrobe again. I’m thinking this camel coat might bring on some new inspiration 😉 .

Featured: Massimo Dutti / DOUBLE-BREASTED CAMEL TONED COAT

• Delicate wool blend
• Straight cut, collar with notch lapels, long sleeves with slit
• Two flap pockets on outer and one interior
• Dry clean only
• €249 EUR

Alternatives:

Ralph Lauren
Sole Society
ASOS