Boden | Claudette Coat | $290 $203
Size 8 

With the holidays closing in on us my festive spirits have been running on high. Seasonal music, candy canes, hot cocoa, gift wrapping. My house is a full on Pinterest explosion (though admittedly with a 60/40 ratio on the #pinterestfails). I am basically Buddy the Elf, and clearly had to buy this coat.

Boden, like everyone else, has been having some great sales, and this gem is currently listed for $203. While I’m never one to shy away from bold color, I have traditionally been more conservative in my outerwear selections (perhaps in a subconscious effort to be more versatile?) Whatever the case may be, this coat broke the mold and it’s absolutely stunning. The faux fur collar is removable, but why would you? It is sumptuously soft against your neck and elevates the look and feel of the garment. And don’t get me started on the lining! Boden’s ever thoughtful design team has done it again. If the fur detail hadn’t already persuaded me, this detail would have tipped the scales. They had me at polka dots. If you reside in colder climes, I would suggest sizing up so you can layer or if you go with your normal size, plan to reserve it for more tepid winter days. I think I personally would be most comfortable in this coat between 30 and 50 degrees. It’s definitely designed with the more temperate British winter in mind.

Regarding fit, I struggled a little. As you may notice, I’ll have to tailor it. Being 5’ 1”, I would have benefited from a petite option. Regular sizing gets tricky for me because I need to order larger sizes to accommodate my bust. I’m typically a 36D, but I’m currently nursing my baby so who on earth knows my true size!  However, once I size up to accommodate my bust, the rest becomes too large. On the bright side, I’ve gotten really good at alterations 🙂

So the moral of the story here is this: If you are a petite purchaser, be ready with your sewing pins. If you are of average to tall height, I think you’re golden. I absolutely adore this coat and am seriously consider ordering it in another color. Seasons greetings to you!