Well it’s that time again folks. Time to dust off your winter jacket, or better yet start looking for a new one!

That’s where Due West and Woolrich John Rich & Bros and I come in :).

As much as I love my classic black parkas, I’ve been needing a change after the many winters of my favorite black classics.

This year, thanks to Due West and Woolrich John Rich & Bros., I’ve fallen in love with this iconic Woolrich jacket this winter because this premium outerwear brand always integrates technical qualities made perfectly suited for city dwellers. Plus, I’m obsessing over the military/utilitarian inspired style of this army green beauty of a jacket. This army green is just the perfect step away from black. Army green is still dark enough not to show every minute blemish that is sadly bound to happen in the slushy winter months.

Other than the color, there are so many things that I find we often forget to think about. PLUS, with seasonal trends and personal preferences constantly changing, I’ve updated my HOW TO shop for winter jackets below.

Must-have features to look for in your jacket for Winter 2017:

1. Oversized & soft hood

Because you KNOW you’ll be walking through snowy/windy storms very soon, and there’s nothing better than hiding your face in a plush pillow-like hood.

2. Soft & moveable outer material

One of the reasons I love to wear wool/cashmere winter jackets is because of how much easier they are to move in than parkas, but nothing is warmer than an actual winter parka so look for one that you feel comfortable moving around in. I prefer a washed cotton or something that feels like it. Waxed cotton is a great choice too as it provides for extra water resistance.

3. Versatility

So if, like me, you live in Ontario, Canada, one of THE MOST indecisive weather areas in the world or somewhere with similar unpredictable weather, then versatility is key. Some days it can be warm enough that a light layer and a thick knit might do the trick and the next morning it will be -30 degrees C!! So look for a jacket that has multiple detachable layers, whether they zip off, button off, whatever your preference. I promise this feature will be your new best friend.

4. Relaxed Fit

You already know that finding a soft and easy to move in material is a must-have, but we have yet to talk about the fit of your new favorite winter jacket. I’ve had perfectly fitted parkas, and super oversized parkas, but all of which wearing days and days in a row never felt quite right. So look for a jacket that fits you, but also has extra room around the shoulders / armpit area and covers your butt. With all the oversized/thick knit sweaters we’re all undoubtedly going to pile on, you want to make sure they will fit under your jacket! One of my biggest pet peeves is having bunched material around my shoulders from my sweaters not fitting into my jacket properly!

Are you ready to shop yet? Your winter jacket shopping arsenal is all ready to go :)!

I’ve linked the style I’m wearing in this post HERE and in all the images. (It also comes in a black colorway with beautiful grey fur too if you’re not ready to jump out of your comfort zone quite yet :p)

They are all available at DUE WEST so hop on over and give them a visit. Maybe I’ll see you all there!

Stay warm friends <3

Jess