Update: We got a house! I'm not going to live in a van down by the Willamette River. But, I still desperately need a PNW-approved raincoat. I have my Helly Hansen (which, if we're being honest, is a tidge tight right now) but I want something that's not insulated - just a raincoat. I also want it in a color that isn't black or olive green. In a fit of optimism, I ordered that cute Madewell raincoat but it's going back:
It runs big. Really big. This is a medium and I am swimming in it! It's also not quite my color. Hmph, here are a few other contenders:
This one is Athleta and I've been waiting impatiently for it to show up online (it was in the catalog months ago!) I think the color is an interesting neutral but it's really expensive and it's sherpa-lined, which is not really what I need right now. Still, I might keep my eye on it.
This J.Crew raincoat is super cute, a classic shape, and also comes in bright yellow and navy. But, it's a little bit too perky-preppy for me in these colors. If it came in camel or gray I'd probably be all over it.
This is by Seasalt (thanks for the rec, Make!Do!) and I love the easy shape and the interesting color. I'd never heard of this brand out of Cornwall, but it's definitely on my radar now.
This is a less-fashion-more-function option from The North Face. I do like that it's a classic trench coat color but is also fully waterproof.
Finally, my dark horse option, I am pretty into this Babour rain jacket I found on Nordstrom Rack. Something about that very British plaid lining! Navy isn't usually my jam but something about this is very appealing. It also comes in a soft gray, just FYI.
What do you guys think? Any suggestions?
PNWer here. Highlight recommend going with something waterproof (or highly water resistant), especially since umbrellas are not a thing here. I know that means fewer options, but it's worth it! It doesn't typically pour up here, but the sprinkles definitely accumulate and not getting soggy makes everything better.
ReplyDeleteYes, all of these options are waterproof (not just water-resistant, which is bullshit.)
DeleteI love the Seasalt one! The interesting color with a simple, but stylish design win me over.
ReplyDeleteI went to a Madewell store to figure out my size for that raincoat, I knew there was no way I'd be able to guess. My Madewell tops are XXS through M, EYE ROLL. I got it in the pink and I LOVE it. The pink is cooler and bluer than it looks online. Looks like the Barley is maybe not saturated enough for you? You wanted it a little warmer/brighter? Of all these, I think I like the Barbour the best. It looks so functional it goes right over into design, if that makes sense.
ReplyDeleteI love the pink in theory but didn't think it would work on me. I don't mind the barley color (though I do wish it was more saturated, yes) but the fit is definitely not for me. I'm glad it worked for you!
DeleteSeasalt is THE BEST. I moved to Scotland 3 years ago and they're all I wear now. I have a winter raincoat for 1/4 of the year and an unlined one for the rest of the time. They're so well-made, are waterproof while still breathable, and the customer service is excellent. Buy all the Seasalt!
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteI live in Seattle and I have a Patagonia raincoat that I love - it's an older style that is no longer available, but similar to this one: https://www.patagonia.com/product/womens-torrentshell-3-layer-city-rain-coat/27119.html?dwvar_27119_color=SGRY&cgid=womens-jackets-vests-rainwear
ReplyDeleteThanks!
DeleteI live in Seattle. In the PNW it’s totally acceptable to own (hoard) a collection of outerwear (do you need a dressy raincoat AND a casual raincoat? Probably yes. A warm raincoat and a lightweight packable option? Probably yes.) I have a sleek black option for meeting days & fancy occasions, and a beloved olive green Jcrew option that’s not waterproof but has giant pockets and you’d have to pry it from my cold dead hands.
ReplyDeleteGive me time! I never need an excuse for a new jacket.
DeleteYes to a collection! Different lengths, fabric weights, level of waterproofness...you need it all to be properly equipped.
DeleteI have this Eddie Bauer one; currently on sale. Paid full price, no regrets.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.eddiebauer.com/p/20612683/women%27s-girl-on-the-go(r)-trench-coat?sp=1&color=Dk%20Charcoal%20Htr
I love the Seasalt or the Barbour! Hope you find one you love!
ReplyDeleteThis is functional, not fashion, but amazing for rain, especially the adjustable hood. I have the primaloft lined version (which is now too small...) and am waiting for a sale or coupon to buy this mesh lined version. https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/82668?page=h2off-raincoat-mesh-lined
ReplyDeleteI just bought the J Crew Perfect Lightweight Jacket and really like it. Love the drawstring waist. I also looked at the Everlane ReNew Anorak but sizing seemed dicier so I figured I’d order the J Crew and if that didn’t work I’d try Everlane.
ReplyDeletePNW'er here...I just bought that Barbour one in gray from Nordstrom Rack and LOVE it. Good size hood, lots of pockets, rain beaded right up when I wore it today. Highly recommend. The sleeves are long, but I am tall so it doesn't bother me. Some people might want them tailored. Agree with those above who recommended Patagonia (can sometimes find on sale at REI) or Eddie Bauer. I have the EB Charley rain parka, and it is very good in the rain.
ReplyDeleteI just received that new J Crew classic raincoat you show above, and it is going straight back. It is rubbery feeling, not breathable, zipper feels cheap, and the only pockets are those 2 drop in ones with snaps. Not practical for busy people in this climate, in my opinion.
I like the Seasalt one. Not from PNW but often wear raincoats instead of using an umbrella. A good fitting hood and a jacket that is comfortable and not too tight is the key.
ReplyDeleteNot a PNW'er but I have a Patagonia rain jacket. I got mine at a tag sale for my kid who ended up not liking the look. Looking it up, it is kind of spendy. BEST RAINCOAT ever. I have 2 big dogs who want to go out no matter what. It keeps me all dry no matter how long I am out. I think it's at least partly the hood? Comes out over my face. Not really a strong fashion choice but very, very servicable. I cannot love this coat enough.
ReplyDeleteI just got this one and it's very cute and extremely lightweight: https://www.columbia.com/p/womens-pardon-my-trench-rain-jacket-1839841.html?dwvar_1839841_color=649&pos=0
ReplyDeleteNot sure it's totally waterPROOF, but it is definitely water resistant.
I love the Barbour!!
ReplyDeleteI often steal my husband's Pendleton and I love it. Thinking about this one for myself. https://www.pendleton-usa.com/product/womens-techrain-hooded-anorak/10438.html?dwvar_10438_color=3126#q=coat&start=34&sz=30&cgid=W450
ReplyDeleteI'm in Portland and my HH coat from NR (IIRC you have the same one?) is my most-worn in the winter. This time of year, though, you mostly want something lighter for the warmish rain. And definitely a hood. Rain is accompanied by wind more often than not so umbrellas aren't super useful. My current shell raincoat looks fine but it's definitely function over fashion: https://www.rei.com/rei-garage/product/120835/marmot-essential-jacket-womens
ReplyDeleteI just got the J.Crew one and love it! It fits great and I am a fan of bold colors and green in particular. And I love the anchor lining.
ReplyDelete