There are many occasions where we think long and hard about the outfit we will wear. An exciting gala, a formal fundraiser or, less exciting more nerve racking, your high-school reunion or that friend’s wedding that your ex just so happens to be attending. Either way, we put thought into it, we agonize over it. The outfit is chosen, shoes are laid out and accessories planned. What we almost always fail to factor in is our outerwear. You’re almost out the door and you go to throw on a coat to realize your old go-to either entirely clashes with your outfit or completely consumes it—leaving all that hard work going unnoticed. This happens all too often to me so I’ve put some serious thought into my winter outerwear collection. I’ve narrowed down my ‘must-haves’ to five can’t-live-without styles.

The Long Vest

If you don’t already have one of these in your closet you are seriously missing out. A long vest adds style to any outfit. It keeps your core warm and is perfect for milder days when you’re running from meeting to meeting. I love this Soi and Kyo Vest from Fine Finds it has fantastic oversized lapels— also made of wool for that added warmth. This piece is perfect for fall!

The Cardigan

The Cardigan is a great way to feel covered and not overwhelmed by anything too bulky. Sort of perfect for days where it’s warm in the sun but cools off in the evening. It’s a versatile piece that most people already have in their arsenal, if you have one with a little bit of weight it pulls double duty as outerwear—adding another layer to your fall look. I found this cardigan at Fine Finds it has a v-neck and no buttons, making it an easy transition to outerwear. I love adding texture to my outfits and the small cable knit gives me just that!

The Heavy Knit

Not typically seen in outwear, I love that this unexpected piece. It’s one of those coats that gives you instant style—complimenting the more basic outfits. I’ve paired mine with a simple black dress and over the knee boots. As you know, I love adding texture and this coat from Fine Finds offers both texture in the fabric choice as well as the fun black and white print. The large lapels give this coat that bit of structure that a heavy knit can often lack.

The Grey Staple 

While black is always a great go-to, grey is an easier neutral to work with. It can be paired with almost anything. It’s not overpowering in color and compliments almost any outfit. Now, not all grey coats are created equal, but I can’t recommend this one from Fine Finds! It’s a fantastic, durable wool that doesn’t immediately absorb the light drizzle and it really holds its shape. An fundamental thing to consider when purchasing a staple piece. While being a staple piece it isn’t boring—it’s anything but basic. The cascade collar off the hood – a Vancouverite essential—gives an extravagant feeling and weight to this piece. Pull it together with a wide belt to cinch the waist and it makes for a piece you can wear day and night.

The Serious Winter Coat

We may complain about the rain here in Vancouver, and rightfully so, but admittedly our winters have nothing on our friends back east! That being said, I still hate being cold. When it comes to my winter coat I’d still rather be over prepared and that means one thing: WARMTH! You want something that’s both warm and fashionable—because let’s face it, you’re going to be wearing this a lot. Fine Finds has a ton of great options but I really love this one. It is so toasty– made of wool, and has a hood (again, essential!) that comes with a removable fur trim, so it can be worn more than one way. It also features an interesting architecture that makes it a fashion piece all it’s own—the cut of the folding off the hood is sliming on any body shape. Further adding to this amazing shape is the wide leather belt. Both the difference in texture and the wide band give the appearance of a smaller waist. This is not your typical winter coat!

If last weekends storm hasn’t convinced you winter is coming, let this be your notice! Spend some time this weekend rooting through your closet– take stock of what you have, the condition of the outerwear that you plan to wear again and take note of the items needed to get through this winter! I’ve found my outfit and outerwear essentials from Fine Finds Boutique in Yaletown. Happy hunting!

Which piece do you like to wear the most this time of year? Let me know in the comments below!!

Natalie xx

Thank you Fine Finds Boutique for sponsoring this post. All comments and opinions are my own.

Photography by Allison Kuhl

Hair & Makeup by Red Carpet Ready by Christina