Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Glam in Gray: an H&M Coat Review





Photos: Katie Derus | Coat: H&M (available online in the U.K. here)| Sunglasses: Prada | Shoes: Nine West (last seen in the last Petite Fashion Challenge) | Bag: Rebecca Minkoff

I bought this glam-looking H&M coat at the beginning of the fall, so I was somewhat surprised to see a few of them still lingering in the store when I popped in recently. After wearing it a few times, I think I know why there are still some left on the racks: this is kind of an odd duck of a coat.

I'll begin by saying that it's usually important to me to not have my coat be a big hassle to put on. I generally want to get out the door quickly, and spending a bunch of time figuring out collars and buttons and sashes isn't really my thing. I was willing to set my usual requirements aside for this coat because I loved the unique collar and adorable bow belt so much. However, practically speaking, I've found never want to wear it since getting into it is such a production. The collar has to be threaded through itself, the snaps are difficult to align and snap properly, and the bow belt has a tendency to whip its little elasticized self everywhere but where I want it to go when trying to snap it into place.

Since I have ended up not wearing this coat much, I decided not to fork over the money it would take to alter the sleeves, which are a bit too long for me. It was interesting to me, though, that when I looked at H&M's catalog shots of the coat, it seemed like the sleeves were also long on the models (I'm guessing both have a solid 10-12 inches of height on me). I'm not sure if this was the intended look, but it seems as if the sleeve length issue is universal across sizes.

Finally, the coat seems to only fall or lie properly when one doesn't walk, sit, or otherwise move around much. As soon as I begin moving, the pockets gape with the lining peeking out, the hem alignment looks off, and it bunches in odd places.

While this coat may still be available in some stores, I wish I had returned it while I could. The overall look, the interesting detailing, and the price were all very attractive, but the wearability and fit will probably cut short this item's life in my closet.

19 comments:

  1. I think the coat is great! Perfect for running around outside for date-night in the city or an outdoor wedding in the chilly months. And that bag is to die for!

    Meg
    @MissMegasaurus
    www.glamoroushustle.com

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  2. You have a wonderful personal style !

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  3. On first glance, I thought "what a gorgeous coat, and she wears it so well!" but then when I read your review, I began to see the flaws! I so admire your standards in style, and the details really count! I have really come to the place where I want to look and feel as luxurious as possible, and I think all of the little flaws accumulate to make an overall impression or feeling. Otherwise, I agree - this coat is truly glamorous and I love that collar! You, with your impressively chic taste in style, also wear it so well with the perfect pairings. I can also see how it would be a hassle to fuss with extras in the morning - I too like to just grab a coat and go! Great review Tam.

    x
    Rachel

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  4. I really love the overall look of the coat. The details, like the collar, are beautiful. I too have such a hard time with sleeve length. Because I live in Southern California, I only own one nice, thicker coat. The sleeves are a tad long, but I haven't altered them mainly out of laziness. For me, as long as they aren't too long, I don't mind it. I love your style!

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  5. The coat looks cute with the bow and that unusual collar, but, then again, who wants so much hassle just to wear it and to keep it in place!! Looks great on you though!!

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  6. I just found your blog from Refinery 29. Pretty much love it already. Your coat is BEAUTIFUL! As are the rest of your outfit posts. Sigh. Any fitness tips, you look great!? Anyways, Following you on GFC. Come by, say hi and follow if ya like:) XO
    real budget, real busy, real body fashion:
    4scarlet.com

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  7. i love it! your bag is amazing, love the color and texture :)

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  8. Thank you for your sweet comment.Follow you back!xoxo

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  9. I love your coat!

    Kisses Anne
    http://annenobody.blogspot.com/

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  10. Despite its flaws, that coat looks beautiful on!

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  11. It looks lovely in the pictures at least. over time I've learned that h&m is not the place to go if you need a jacket or coat. followed xx

    wanna do it back?
    http://xbadtemper.blogspot.com

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  12. OMG I love this coat!! Too bad you aren't enjoying it, these pictures look so glam :)

    Perhaps you could sell it? I'm sure someone would want it!

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  13. I love the look of the coat! Too bad it's not too great....
    xo,
    http://peppermintandivy.blogspot.com/

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  14. Great coat! I love the RM bag!

    http://brightandsassy.blogspot.com/

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  15. This coat reminds me of the first lady of France, very nice!

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  16. Aw, that is too bad that there seem to be so many little flaws in what looks like a gorgeous coat! I love the neckline and the belt...looks so sweet on you.
    XO - Marion

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  17. that coat is gorgeous and very chic! love the bag too :)

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  18. The coat is so lady like with a bit of sass with the collar. What a cute bow belt!

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