Raglan Coat Roundup
If you're looking for the overcoat that can do it all, here are some pieces worth perusing!
While I do love a good overcoat, whatever the design, I’ve grown particularly fond of proper balmacaans with raglan sleeves.
When it comes to outerwear, the versatility is unmatched! Balmacaans are designed to be worn atop suits and sport coats, like any other overcoat, yet they look surprisingly suave with casual wear and even athleisure.
If you follow me on social, you’ve already heard my yap on this here.
Which is all well and good, but naturally, the next question is “where can I get one?”
Let’s examine some options at entry level and premium price points with a few affordable options at the end!
Madewell: Balmacaan Overcoat - $398
Great entry-level offering. It definitely has the look and heft you’d want from a balmacaan. The speckled tweed herringbone brings so much dimension you could get lost in it.
The only bummer is that this ravishing blend of natural fibers (54% wool, 7% silk, and 5% cotton) are blemished by 33% polyester. In my mind it’s an acceptable amount of synthetics for this look and price but fabric purists will understandably find that to be a deal-breaker.
Bonobos: Italian Wool Overcoat - $499
Moving on to our 100% wool offerings, this beauty from Bonobos comes in a gorgeous rust tweed herringbone featuring generous flecks of orange and olive woven in to create a glowing autumnal palette.
The details and fabric are immaculate but the one potential setback with this coat is the length. As long coats have come back into favor, many specifically want theirs to reach past the knees. For us short kings, it won’t be a problem, but for gents as tall as this 6’2 model that may be something to watch out for.
On the other hand, not everyone’s on board with the billowy overcoat look, in which case they may even prefer their balmacaan a touch short.
Suitsupply: Navy Herringbone Raglan Overcoat - $599
Suitsupply has a few raglan sleeve offerings this season, all of which are worth your attention! I’m particularly enamored with this navy herringbone that looks almost iridescent in some lighting, but they also have a black speckled wool option if you prefer a more subdued look.
Suitsupply: Herringbone Belted Wool-Cashmere Overcoat - $699
This one is for the earth tone and monochrome outfit aficionados! Taupe herringbone, wool-cashmere blend, reverse box pleat on the back, and with a self-fabric belt. Chef’s kiss.
A bit pricier but those details more than warrant the cost.
Reiss: Atelier Wool Check Raglan Overcoat - $1190
Moving further into the premium price range, we have this handsome houndstooth Prince of Wales check balmacaan from the British brand, Reiss.
100% wool, self fabric belt, and before you get concerned about the length, do note that this chap is 6’3, wearing a medium jacket, and it does reach his knees. Now *that* is a proper overcoat!
Todd Snyder: Wool-Cashmere Belted Overcoat - $1298
Skipping back across the pond, we look to Todd Snyder’s modern American take on this classic Scottish garment. While the all-important raglan sleeves remain true to form, these buttons are a visible feature rather than hiding them behind a fly front as is standard.
Noteworthy details include the self-fabric belt, flapped patch pockets, and scrumptious swelled edges across this cozy wool-cashmere blend that you can almost feel through the picture.
Macys: Michael Kor's Classic-Fit Check Overcoat - $99
Raglan sleeves, suave brown and black houndstooth pattern, and exposed buttons rather than a fly front. The fabric is 70% synthetic, but the look is solid and it’s certainly a bargain at this price point. Not a bad way to sample this style.
H&M: Dark Brown Checked Car Coat - $119
The details, such as swelled edges and a throat latch on the collar, are fantastic! The fabric itself looks like a proper tweed houndstooth. But it’s not.
100% polyester is typical at this price point, and while it won’t perform or last as well as real tweed, this coat does look sharp!
Asos: Topman Oversized Brushed Plaid Overcoat - $199
Another stylish houndstooth balmacaan with the expected details, but alas, the fabric is mostly synthetic. Despite that compromise, Topman makes a solid affordable coat.
Which of these looks best to you?