I didn't think it was that bad. It's a cag-parka, isn't it? A cagoul dressed up as a parka.
I think a lot must depend on the fabric, which is perhaps why it doesn't look so nice on. and the parka look is a bit 'over' now, since its Kate Moss heyday. But still, it looks thinner than the red funnel neck that another poster linked to, which must surely make it easier to wear.
I wouldn't wear it myself. I have an orange North Face v. boring cagoul that I wear when I have to, and a Mambo coat that is basically a wearable, fluffy-lined tent, I wear when camping. But generally, I make do with a coat and brolly. So perhaps my opinion, actually, counts for nothing, hettie.
I have basically given up on the quest for stylish, lightweight, rainwear. Odd, really, when you think about the prevailing weather of these shores. I'm clearly in denial. You, however, are bravely questing on. Congratulations. I admire your fortitude.