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21st Century and Contemporary Coats and Outerwear
Finding the Right coats-outerwear for You
There is a stylish garment for anywhere in the universe, and on 1stDibs, finding the right vintage and designer coats and outerwear doesn’t have to feel like a journey to the ends of the earth.
Outerwear includes many types of garments aside from the standard coat. From capes, gilets, jackets and cloaks to raincoats and kimonos, fashion designers have long been preparing us for the elements, and outerwear in general has changed and evolved significantly over time.
A lot of the coat styles in our closets, such as the durable Navy-inspired peacoat, were popularized by soldiers who battled aggressive climes in their regulation field jackets and parkas — indeed, keeping troopers comfortable guided the design of the military surplus garments that have often become buzzy fashion trends. Even today, owing to the likes of Burberry, a luxury fashion house that is among the originators of the trench coat worn by British officers during World War I, the trench remains a timeless style, now available in a range of colors that can be worn throughout the year.
While women in late 1700s England donned an adaptation of a men’s jacket called a spencer — the likeness of which could be spotted in Ralph Lauren’s ready-to-wear collections hundreds of years later — designers hadn’t widely been crafting outerwear specifically for women. Generally, the outerwear of choice for the fashionable, well-heeled lady prior to the 1800s usually consisted of capes, shawls and stoles. By the mid-1800s, women were wearing overcoats with multiple layered collars popularized by men (often called a Garrick coat in England), and as women entered the workforce during the 1920s, hemlines climbed, jewelry was prominent and fashion conventions were broken across the board.
Thankfully, the 20th century’s tradition of challenging the norm continues steadfast in today’s outerwear fashions. Contemporary designers certainly find inspiration in 1960s and 1970s coats by Pierre Cardin, Yves Saint Laurent and Bonnie Cashin, but unisex options abound in modern creations that take both function and style into account. Find what inspires you in the full range of vintage and designer coats and outerwear available for sale on 1stDibs.
- What is a Malacca walking stick?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A Malacca walking stick is a long stick made out of palm trees native to Asia. People use the sticks to help them maintain their balance when walking, particularly over uneven terrain. In some cases, artisans use the sticks as umbrella poles. On 1stDibs, find a range of Malacca walking sticks.
- Are mules hard to walk in?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024Whether mules are hard to walk in will vary from person to person. However, experts generally state that mules should be relatively easy to walk in, provided that you choose a pair that fits you well. The level of support provided by the insole and the height of the heel may impact the walkability of any shoe. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of mules.
ChicjoySeptember 24, 2020It is virtually impossible to walk into an Hermes store as a new customer and be offered a Birkin for purchase. Most Birkins are offered to loyal clients who have established a purchase history at a particular store and with a particular sales associate who may take note of your Birkin or Kelly wish.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Walking sticks go by many different names. Some of them include: cane, handstaff, stave, shillelagh, crutch, alpenstock and staff. Walking sticks come in many different varieties from different staff material to unique and interesting heads, making them a desirable collectible. Find a collection of vintage and modern walking sticks on 1stDibs.
- Do walking sticks really help?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, walking sticks are helpful for walking. Walking sticks can help maintain posture, stability and provide support as well as take some of the impact out of your lower back and knees. Shop a range of vintage and contemporary walking sticks on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021The best wood for a walking staff or walking stick is oak and blackthorn. These are two exceptionally hard woods that are noted for their endurance. These are ideal if you want a stick that will endure a long time or provide you with strong support. Find a collection of antique and modern walking sticks on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021There is not one consistent height for walking sticks but is instead dependent on your height and what you plan to use it for. Standing with your arms by your side, the walking stick should be 6 to 8 inches above your elbow. For climbing up steep hills, a longer stick is important.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021To measure a walking stick, the base should be placed a little wider than a foot from the outside of the wearer's shoe. The handle should be at wrist crease height with the elbow slightly bent when standing upright.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021The best walking cane is the one that is properly sized for the individual who will be using it. Walking canes are designed to take pressure off when walking hence it is important that the person can stand as upright as possible, with their elbow slightly bent. Find a collection of antique and vintage walking canes on 1stDibs today.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021There are many types of wood used for walking canes. When choosing wood for a walking cane it is important to consider its weight, durability, availability and appearance. Find a collection of antique and vintage wooden walking canes on 1stDibs today.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021The best type of walking cane is a matter of choice. Look for basic features — it should have an easy grip and a contoured handle for ease of holding. Find a variety of vintage and antique walking canes on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021The best walking cane for balance is the one that is properly sized for the individual who will be using it. Walking canes are designed to take pressure off when walking, hence it is important that the person can stand as upright as possible, with their elbow slightly bent. Find a collection of antique and vintage walking canes on 1stDibs today.
- 1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021Scottish walking sticks are also called canes. They’re typically made of wood and have a ball on one end for someone to grip.
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