Big and Tall Men's Leather Coats

As winter approaches, the search for big and tall men's leather coats grows ever stronger. Fortunately, there's no dearth of comfortable, cozy coats available in extended sizes.

Leather coats are timeless and polished.

Nothing says smart and polished quite like a leather coat. It has the ability to pull together even the most casual outfits – think jeans and casual sweaters – and is one of the most versatile types of outerwear. There are numerous styles available, ranging from blazers to trenches. Though it might be tricky to find some styles in extended sizes, today more and more specialty retailers are offering big and tall leather coats.

Shopping for a high quality leather coat is essential. Consider it the ultimate investment piece: If you shop well, you'll end up with a coat that will last you for years. These tips should help, especially if you've never shopped for leather before:

• Lambskin is often considered the most comfortable material, due to its light weight and soft feel. You'll also come across cow- and sheepskin coats, but pay close attention to the texture. Is it excessively heavy? Does it constrict your movement at all? If the answer is yes, move on until you find the right coat.
• Check out the leather's appearance. Though a few scratches are certainly normal (and can lend your coat that quintessential "worn-in" look), some styles are more consistent from top to bottom. Coats in particular are less casual than, say, a biker jacket, so it might be appropriate to seek out something with a slightly more formal, cleaner look.
• If you're in the market for a coat, you already know warmth is essential. In addition to simply looking good, your coat should be lined with a material substantial enough to keep you comfort in uncomfortable conditions. Look for quilted linings or lining made with kasha, a conventional material that is extra-soft and guaranteed to keep you warm.
• Embellishments are also important. No, we aren't talking about over-the-top details – just the basics, like zippers, topstitching and buttons. Make sure that they're properly and securely affixed.

You know what to look for, but perhaps you aren't quite sure where to begin. Searching for big and tall men's leather coats can be a challenge indeed, mainly because fit is the most crucial aspect of any garment. During the winter, you want a coat that is roomy enough to accommodate a pullover sweater underneath, yet still fitted enough to look flattering without anything bulky beneath. Length may also pose a problem, especially for taller individuals.

Simply put, the ideal leather coat does not constrict your movement at all. It should fit your shoulders perfectly, allow you to raise your arms easily and fall "just right" in its natural state (for example, sleeves should not extend far beyond your wrists, and the shoulders' seams should not extend beyond your natural shoulder size).

With these tips in mind, it's time to begin shopping. These retailers offer decent selections at varying price points:

• JCPenney is one of those stores you can almost always count on for timeless merchandise. Visit the men's section, click on "big and tall" and then select "coats and jackets" to find a selection in extended sizes. Among them are professional lambskin blazers, roomy car coats and smart walking coats. Items may be returned in store for convenience.

• Main Modes Leather Factory offers a wide range of men's leather jackets and coats, with a few available in big and tall sizes. Simply click on "big and tall coats" to find them. Among the offerings are classic lambskin car coats, chic trench coats and sharp two-button blazers. Garments may be returned or exchanged within 10 days of purchase.

• Sears is another no-fail option when it comes to enduring clothing. The men's big and tall section features a decent range of leather coats. All you need to do is simply search by material to find them. From comfortable parkas with detachable hoods to cold weather-friendly dusters, there's something for just about every taste. Items are returnable in store for convenience.

Though there's definitely some convenience involved with shopping online, it's best reserved for items you're confident will fit you well. For something as substantial as a leather coat, it's helpful to try it on in person first. If there's a specific reason you want to order online (for example, perhaps there's a great discount code you want to take advantage of), try the coat on in person first and then order it online.

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