Now that it’s spring, I’m looking for the perfect lightweight urban raincoat – not one for walking in the woods and not a classic trench coat that can feel a little stuffy. Is there anything between that and one that’s overly trendy and doesn’t last? — Ilene, Denver
“April showers bring the need for a raincoat” is not such a happy adage as that of May flowers, but it is equally true. Especially because in this weird in-between period when winter jackets are too heavy but spring jackets too light, the raincoat is the perfect outerwear, whether there is real moisture in the air or not.
That’s why the trench coat has become such a popular resource: it’s elegant enough to wear without a downpour and protective without being sweaty. That’s why it’s become so versatile: gender-fluid and chock-full of references, especially cinematic, be it law enforcement (“The Pink Panther”), romance (“Casablanca”) or simply chic (“Breakfast at Tiffany’s “).
That, in turn, is why it can feel like a wearable cliché.
However, there are other options. For sheer functionality, our sister experts at Wirecutter have a list of raincoat recommendations, but if you want to combine protection with a little flair – or if you don’t want to look like you’re about to go hiking in the Pacific Northwest – you need to consider a few more factors.
Like how much coverage you want (below the knee vs. the thigh); the importance of waterproof versus water-resistant (the first can withstand torrential rain, the second more mundane sprinkles); and the issue of a hood (that is, are you willing to carry an umbrella?). And remember, a raincoat should be a long-term investment, meaning it’s worth spending a little more on fabric and a fit that will last.
I have a Barbour waxed coat, which I like because it’s structured without being bulky and has the counter-intuitive appeal of a country coat moved to an urban setting. And I’ve been wearing it since… the turn of the millennium.
For me it’s worth it. Where else to look? A good rule of thumb is cherchez the experts – brands born in countries with, say, climatic expertise when it comes to moisture.
For example, Stutterheim, the Swedish label, offers a great daffodil-yellow quasi-slicker that may remind you of your childhood, but is cut with the kind of swing back that gives it a grown-up elegance. Boden, the British brand, has a custom color blocking that’s nice too – and comes in a small floral print too. Rains, a Danish brand with a name that says it all, has a waterproof, belted jacket with a nice minimal coolness, as well as one in a juicy tangerine.
And if, after some detective work, a ditch still seems like the best way to go, Lands’ End offers the style in a relatively affordable rainbow of spring hues. Parade away.
Your style questions, answered
Every week on Open Thread, Vanessa answers a reader’s fashion-related question, which you can send her anytime via e-mail or Twitter† Questions have been edited and compressed.