Winter coat conundrum

[MamaNell]

I’ve got loads of winter coats- trench/ ski coats/ long beautiful coats/ fun brightly coloured ones but don’t seem to have the one I need!

Im going to Paris in December and would like to be stylish but warm while looking at the Christmas markets, museums, lunches. I’m also going to Iceland in February, where I also want to be warm but care less how I look as it’ll just be me and the kids 😂

is there anything that might suit both trips as I don’t want to spend loads twice?? Or even brands I could look at?

could a good long wool coat be warm enough for Iceland if I got insulated trousers and tops??

You would need a technical coat for iceland.
There are some really pretty ones out there now with glam furry hood and belts to synch on your waist?

What's your budget? I bought a coat from Woolrich last week while in Italy and it has a thin puffer and an outer waterproof layer, and is warm up to -10 degrees. They are around €800 (I bought it in an outlet and paid €600). I think this is THE winter coat for style and practicality, fit, and something to be worn for years to come.

You need a ‘proper’ coat for Iceland in February (having been there at that time of year myself). A long wool coat is nowhere near sufficient. You need something waterproof. And the wind makes it even colder so expect COLD. I think anything which looks chic in Paris in December won’t be warm enough for Iceland (unless you want to be melting in Paris). Also, take handwarmers to Iceland. I found them a godsend!

No a wool coat will not be sufficient for Iceland, you need windproof and waterproof.

How about Didrikson? Protected Species do a more winter version of their amazing waterproof coats.

https://www.didriksons.com/uk/women/jackets/parkas/lea-women-s-parka-2-505817-060

I was fine in a wool coat in Iceland in December in the middle of a snowstorm! I also had a furry hat and gloves.

What do you want to wear in Paris? Do you mind a down or technical looking jacket or did you want a fashion one?

I was in Iceland this year and would get a three in one type jacket. Like the pine bank from Patagonia. There are some amazing stylish outdoor brands now that an are more urban style.

if you want a more fashion-y coat for Paris you will need two separate Coats

Have a look at END. and working class hero’s websites for inspiration.

also alpine trek does some great kit and the heber peak sylvite he coat is lovely but huge onsite down x2

If you've already got a ski coat take that for feb/Iceland. We've done finland at that time of year and you need proper hard core stuff for the snow. For Paris I'd look at some of the nice long line puffer coats if you don't mind something that's not super flattering, super dry had some nice ones, the Holland cooper ones are more flattering if you don't mind the extra cost, and some have belts to cinch. Alternatively, whistles always have attractive coats and they work well too if you want a more classic wool coat. Try vinted if you want a more expensive brand - there's lots of barely worn and then dry cleaned options, I've got so many good ones from there for half the price of new.

No, you will not be able to use the same coat for Paris and Iceland.
For Iceland you will need a proper coat, warmer than what you need in the UK. You could check Vinted. Or use your ski coat and make sure to add merino /thermal layers.
For Paris use one of your beautiful long coats. You will need a coat similar to, or less warm than what you use in the UK.

Didriksons has lovely warm coats

I have seen lots of ladies in these this week, they look nice (although my husband did ask

Oops he did ask if it is a uniform coat. I like it, is it warm? I asked one lady and she said not really.

You need the fairfax and favor Charlotte coat. Stylish and realllllly warm!

I’d say it would do both jobs well. And you can get a matching bobble hat

It sounds like you already have what you need! Use the ski coat for Iceland and the long wool one for Paris.

You have loads of coats. There isn't one universal coat unless you don't care what you look like. Any "compromise" will look too casual/sporty in Paris and at the same time too clueless tourist in Iceland.