When it comes to semi-formal and formal weddings, you simply can’t go wrong with a great tuxedo or a wonderfully tailored suit. You don’t have to be Cary Grant or James Bond to look good in men’s formal wear. With the right suit and the perfect accessories, you’re sure to have your bride swooning with your good looks and irresistible charms, long before the end of your wedding reception.

More and more couples today go for winter weddings over the traditional June wedding. The stark and breathtakingly beautiful contrast created by the white snow against the sky’s cool, blue backdrop creates the perfect background for outdoor wedding photo-ops.

If you plan on having a winter wedding, you need to keep yourself effectively protected from the bitter cold. Instead of whipping out your old, weather beaten leather jacket that came straight out of your closet from your “rebellious” college days, why not go for its more stylish equivalent: a brand new overcoat perhaps?

The Overcoat

An overcoat is an effective way of staying warm during the cold season. An overcoat is any type of coat that falls below the knee and over the shins. Overcoats are articles of clothing designed to be worn over dresses, uniforms, suits, everyday clothes and tuxedos.

Overcoats are often mistaken for topcoats. The main difference between an overcoat and a topcoat has to do with the coat’s material and length. Topcoats end either at the knees or a few inches above them, while overcoats are significantly longer. Topcoats are also created from a lightweight material like covert or gabardine, while overcoats can be made of heavy fabrics or fur.

The overcoat is a necessary part of your winter wardrobe. Since overcoats can be pretty pricey, it is essential that you find an elegant and stylish overcoat that you can wear not just to your wedding, but to future semi-formal and formal gatherings as well.

Choosing Your Overcoat

The following are some tips to help you find the perfect wedding overcoat:

Tip 1: Consider your overcoat a long-term investment.

As we mentioned before, it’s important that you find an overcoat that you can wear for future formal events you’ll be attending. Wedding overcoats are pretty pricey, so you’ll make better use of your money if you go for an overcoat that is classic, sturdy and long-lasting.

Tip 2: Make sure your overcoat color matches your suit or tuxedo color.

If you’re going for an all-white ensemble, then a great white fur overcoat or a black one will definitely add elegance and appeal to your overall appearance. If you’re unsure of what shade or color to choose, go for elegant and basic black.

Tip 3: Find the right overcoat fabric.

You need an overcoat that is warm, stylish and lightweight. Great fabric choices include wool and microfiber. Although heavy fabrics tend to be extremely effective when it comes to keeping you warm, they can also impede movement. If you plan on doing a lot of dancing at the wedding reception, forgo fur and go for wool instead.

Tip 4: Lastly, forgo trendy for something classic.

Trendy overcoats are pretty to look at, but they go out of season in a matter of months. Since you’re buying an overcoat as a long-term investment, a classic overcoat is highly recommended.

Watch this man modelling his full collared overcoat in winter.