I went a little purchase crazy during J. Crew’s pre-holiday sales. I hate when all of their sale items turn into final sale after the holidays, so I buy everything I’m even remotely interested in before this happens. The stadium-cloth cocoon coat is an item I’ve been interested in trying for a while. I tried on last years version and it was too over-sized, so this year I grabbed the petite version.
Sizing: I’m wearing a 0P, and I think this is my ideal size. The sizing is mostly based on shoulder width because the body of the jacket is so forgiving (I measured the bust at 18″). In the 0P I have full range of motion in my arms without feeling constricted at all. I think the 00P would have been too snug across the shoulders. So if you’re much smaller than I am, you’ll be sized out of this one.
Fit: The fit is tricky, especially for petites like myself. The cut is obviously boxy, but pretty slim overall. It hits at mid thigh, about 29″ in length. The length is long enough to keep you warm, but short enough so that the coat doesn’t swallow you whole. The sleeves in the petite version are on the shorter side, which actually looks cute with the style of the coat (I usually hate shorter sleeves). I measure mine at about 16″ from the underarm to cuff.
Fabric Content: This year’s stadium-cloth fabric is different than last year’s. Its still composed of 79% wool 21% nylon, but last year’s version was an extremely smooth, fuzz-free tight knit. This years version is still a tight knit, but the finish of the fabric is fuzzier and softer. I actually prefer this year’s fabric, its so thick and warm! Not warm enough for -20F temps (+ windchill!), but definitely warm enough for the majority of winter weather.
Colors: J. Crew’s seasonal outerwear color pallets are hit or miss for me. This year is definitely a hit. I got the navy (on sale). My favorites from this year are the midnight green and gossamer peach! Stunning and saturated. I wonder when the rest of the colors will go to sale?
Quality vs. Price: J. Crew’s outerwear is typically of decent quality. Paying $350 is quite steep for this coat, as the style is pretty basic. But $200-$250 is reasonable. The fabric is nice and substantial. The zipper is hefty and appears un-damagable. The inside is lined with polyester, but has cute little trim details that give it something special. Overall, I think J. Crew did well with this coat this year.
More pictures to come!
