Cropped sleeve outerwear
November 6th, 2007Three-quarter-length and bracelet-length sleeves are particularly popular on coats and jackets this season. These sleeve lengths are super for Autumn, but a little chilly for Winter. By adding long opera gloves to the look, you’ll create a dramatic ‘40’s fashion effect and keep your forearms warm. Opera gloves are expensive, and might set you back the same amount that you paid for your coat or jacket. But they can be thrifted for a fraction of the price if you fancy the look and are determined to wear it at a price.
The beauty of three-quarter-sleeve outerwear items is that they’ll take you all the way into Spring if they’re not made of heavy Winter fabrications. They’re also perfect for mild Winter temperatures, with or without opera gloves. So if you’re on the fence about purchasing a three-quarter-sleeved coat or jacket, remember that you can extend it’s life into Winter and Spring. Savvy choices about the additions to your wardrobe will help you to get the biggest bang for your fashion buck.
November 6th, 2007 at 8:36 am
What about the cheaper opera length gloves that you might find on Amazon or even at a formal wear store? Do you know if there is a significant difference in quality/warmth? I’ve seen them easily for under $10, but I wonder about the quality. I wore some at our wedding, but that was just for a day.
November 6th, 2007 at 9:39 am
I found some not-quite-opera length gloves at TJ Maxx. Black, elbow-length, ruched velvet for $12 or so. Your readers might want to check that out!
http://whatiwore2day.blogspot......apeze.html
If you can stand the cold, I also think that smart, wrist-length, leather gloves look fresh with the 3/4 sleeve as well.
November 6th, 2007 at 10:23 am
Super tip Kasmira. And I absolutely love the look of smart wrist length gloves with cropped sleeve outerwear. It’s very 40’s and ladylike……albeit a bit drafty.
November 6th, 2007 at 1:47 pm
Claires also carries inexpensive gloves of all lengths. The quality is not like Nordstrom, but for the few times I would ever wear them–it’s a good deal.
November 6th, 2007 at 2:38 pm
During this past year I have actually bought 3 coats at a thrift shop. All have the bracelet length sleeves as well as wonderful and unusual cuts to them. (The are all to the knee, I was really tired of hauling around the midi length.) I was thinking of bringing them to a tailor to get more length out of the sleeves, but after reading this, I think I will wear them another season “as is”. Ladies, don’t overlook thrift shops. I paid less than $50 for each of them, and they are unique and stylish. I was inspired by Alligators, Old Mink and New Money book. It is a great read.
November 6th, 2007 at 3:56 pm
I am hesitant to buy something in that price range that is sure to be passe next fall. I am more likely to buy trendy items for my kids, since they will outgrow them before the style changes. So, if you can find something that current in a consignment shop, more power to you! But I think I’ll stick to my classic black wool waistcoat this winter…and splurge on a trendy scarf and hat!
I also like the comments about “thrift” shopping. We have a great upscale consignment shop in the area. Not only do I shop there, but I sell items there as well. Big fan of recycling clothing.
November 7th, 2007 at 8:07 am
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November 7th, 2007 at 8:25 am
Recycling clothing (and anything else really) is extremely popular in France. “Recycling Events” are called “Brocantes” and they are much like what Americans would call yard sales, but on a much bigger scale. Such exchanges definitely have their place and purpose and I too am in favour of them.
There is a part of me that feels that three-quarter-sleeve outerwear is forever fashionable because of it’s vintage appeal, and the right vintage clothing is always hip. I also suspect that this trend (cropped sleeve outerwear) will continue in modern fashion for a good few years, but I’m not completely sure of that yet. Time will tell.
But if you are in the market for just one coat and you don’t live in a place where the Winters are mild, it’s best to stick to long sleeves for maximum versatility. You can always wear cropped sleeved jackets in Spring and that’s truly a forever fashionable item.
Like all thrift store and bargain shopping Meg (and in fact all shopping in general), you’ll need to weigh up the quality (this includes fit) and function of the item with it’s cost. I’m sure that there is a bargain to suit every shopping need if you look long and hard enough. It’s all about whether you have the time, patience, expertise, skill, taste level and luck to sass out bargains. And if you do, you’ll save yourself a pretty penny!
Super tip Joey.
November 7th, 2007 at 5:33 pm
When I wrote about finding coats in a thrift shop a few comments back, I wasn’t talking about buying “current clothing” more cheaply, I was really referring to vintage. One of the coats seems to be from the early 60’s and two from the late fifties. Two had been relined and are extremely warm, which is a plus here in New England. The styles are unique, and you would be hardpressed to find these styles being cut today. I am a sew-er, and I am constantly looking for unusual patterns. The dressy one has a mink collar that can be worn up around the neck or flat. The shape is tapered to the knee, reminiscent of the flapper era, although I don’t think the coat is that old. My point here is that there are some quality items that transcend current “style” and will always look fashion forward.
November 7th, 2007 at 5:57 pm
Thanks for your explanation Debbie. I just wrote a response to Nicole that was to your point. My reference to vintage clothing was two-fold (clothes that are new and look vintage, and clothes that are authentically vintage). You are absolutely correct - the right vintage pieces transcend modern trends and will continue to do so. They do not make clothes like they use to.