The Perfect Coat

[Northernexile]

I'm really hoping the good MNers of S&B can help me. I am desperately
in need of a coat that can do everything. I have been looking for the perfect coat for about four years. It needs to:

• Have a hood
• Cover my arse
• Keep the rain off a bit
• Look vaguely stylish

I ideally want something fairly lightweight, not for deepest winter, that will work for walking the dog, taking kids out etc, but I don't want a typical waterproof-type (sweaty) outdoorsy coat. I don't know if this coat exists, but I will be eternally grateful for any suggestions/recommendations. I'm 36 and a size 10-12. Thank you!

Just returning to see what you all think. I've narrowed it down to two Ilse Jacobsen coats that are within budget. Thanks for all the recommendations!

Now looking for opinions on these. Which do you prefer:

www.brandoutlet.com/ilse-jacobsen-rain-37b-black-long-softshell-raincoat.html

Or:

www.brandoutlet.com/ilse-jacobsen-indigo-moonstone-rains-55-3-4-soft-shell-rain-coat.html

Also unsure whether to get a 10 ir a 12. Can anyone who has one let me know if they come up big/small etc?
Thank you!

I love the Jigsaw one! Damn, do I NEED another coat?? I was thinking of buying the Coast waterproof jacket by Joules.

I was coming on to say protected species as well. They're fab! www.protected-species.com/shop/

They come up quite slim fitting, ime, so if you're going to be wearing a jumper underneath later in the year I'd go for the 12.

Good choice!

Thanks mumbod, will try the 12. Just need to decide which one now. I also really like the Protected Species coats, but they are a little more than I wanted to spend while I'm on maternity leave.

What about this Comes in loads of colors, seems to fit the bill

.

Damn, I really want the Jigsaw one now!

What about this? Bargain!
(Concealed hood)
www.regatta.com/grace-jacket-navy-0-14.html

Try Seasalt. I have a long lightweight raincoat from them which is perfect for summer.

Barbour have some lovely waterproof jackets at the moment in red, blue or yellow. I just love my waxed jacket, it's warm, windproof and has a good and a collar that turns up, plus lots of pockets for crap. I got mine after DS1 was born when I realised I couldn't push a pushchair, walk the dog and carry an umbrella!

http://www.naylors.com/barbour-ladies-trevose-jacket-red?gclid=CNm4-POYrNQCFYiT7Qod4IMM_g

I have a soft shell jacket Northernexile, I love it but its pretty warm - not for sunny days

Try Landsend. I bought their long Squall parka for about £70.00 in their sale. I'm a teaching assistant and have to stand outside for an hour each day on playground duty so I needed something that could withstand showers and wind and keep me warm whilst just standing around. It does the job!! Very warm and lots of pockets!!

Phase 8 Alanna trenchcoat, has removable lining! Well tested in rain last few days! Think the name is Alanna could be wrong

www.lyst.co.uk/clothing/phase-eight-alanna-hooded-trench-coat-navy-1/?atc_campaign=Clothing+-+OOS+Sold+Out&atc_content=Phase+Eight+-+OOS+Sold+Out&atc_country=UK&atc_grouping=DSA&atc_medium=cpc&atc_source=google&gclid=CPnZst3ertQCFV8NGwodcgMBSw&gclsrc=ds&dclid=CPr5vd3ertQCFS0g0wodU-gNJQ

This might be a bit sweaty for running about on a warm day, but it's lightweight, has a hood and is very waterproof. Bum well covered. m.zalando.co.uk/rains-curve-waterproof-jacket-oliv-ri021g004-n11.html
I have one in rust and am getting used to the fabric. It is very flattering and has a good range of colours. I am a 10_12 and a 36 c and have the xs. Its a little tight across the chest, but great everywhere else.