Vetements Coat

Navigating the World of High-End Streetwear Outerwear

As someone who loves fashion and appreciates high-quality clothing with a rebellious edge, I’ve had my eye on Vetements coats for a while. Vetements exploded onto the scene around 2016 as a new luxury brand that blended streetwear with haute couture styles and attitudes. The idea was to take everyday street fashion and elevate it with premium fabrics, tailoring and details.

Vetements coats quickly became one of the brand’s signature pieces. Oversized, slouchy silhouettes with unique textures and prints made the coats walking anti-fashion statements. Of course, with hype comes premium price tags. Vetements is not for the faint of wallet!

But I’ve decided it’s time to finally invest in an iconic Vetements coat this season. If I’m being honest, I’m still trying to wrap my head around the world of Vetements outerwear. With limited retail locations, cryptic sizing, and sky-high costs, buying a Vetements coat requires some research.

That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive buying guide for anyone looking to purchase their first Vetements coat. I’ll break down everything from sizing and styling to materials and maintenance. Consider this your Vetements coat encyclopedia! Let’s dive in.

What Exactly is a Vetements Coat?

First things first – what sets a Vetements coat apart from other jackets and outerwear?

Vetements coats are known for their oversized, anti-fashion silhouettes and use of high-end fabrics. While shapes are exaggerated, often with extended sleeves or extra-long hemlines, the coats are still expertly tailored for drape and movement.

Unique fabric mixes, like leather with cotton or silk linings, play with texture. Prints and graphics reference youth culture, music, and pop art. Details like logos, zips, and ties add edge.

Overall, Vetements coats have an avant-garde, rebellious vibe. The idea is to take something as mundane as an overcoat and completely reconstruct it. They’re eye-catching conversation starters that defy conformity.

Some hallmarks of Vetements coats:

• Oversized, elongated silhouettes
• Draped fabrics with lots of movement
• Leather, wool, and cotton textile mixes
• Graphic prints and embroidery
• Specialty fabric treatments (wax coatings, etc)
• Bold zips, ties, and logo details
• Limited production runs
• Extremely high price points

In a world of basic outwear, Vetements challenges tradition. The coats are anti-fashion statements for those who dare to be different. Now you have a better sense of what makes them unique!

Where Can I Actually Buy a Vetements Coat?

Here comes the tricky part – where do you actually find these coveted coats for sale?

Due to the limited production runs, Vetements coats are not easy to track down. They typically sell out instantly, even at astronomical prices. Here are a few options for finding that unicorn Vetements piece:

• Vetements Flagship Stores – There are two flagship boutiques, in Paris and Zurich. But pieces are scarce and sell fast. Worth calling ahead if you’re traveling nearby!
• Luxury Department Stores – Limited quantities sometimes appear at high-end retailers like Barneys, Harrods and Lane Crawford. Again, new arrivals go quickly.
• Online Consignment – Sites like Grailed, TheRealReal and Vestiaire Collective auction second-hand Vetements. You’ll pay premium prices for re-sale but can find rare sold-out coats.
• Vetements Online – The brand website sometimes does surprise coat drops which immediately get bought up. Worth checking back for restocks if you have a specific style in mind!
• Pre-Order Lists – Some retailers like Browns Fashion allow you to join waitlists for upcoming Vetements collections. This could guarantee you get the new season coat you want.

The Vetements buying experience is undeniably an exercise in patience and persistence. But that’s part of the appeal – it’s a celebratory moment when you finally track down your holy grail piece!

How Does Vetements Outerwear Fit? Demystifying The Sizing

Here’s an area that intimidates most first-time Vetements shoppers: the fits are purposefully oversized and the sizing is far from standard.

It helps to have a game plan when trying to crack the sizing code across different Vetements coat silhouettes:

• Oversized Coat Styles – For classic double-breasted wool coats, hoodies, bombers and other slouchy shapes, size down 1-2 sizes compared to your normal jacket size. The roomy proportions are part of the aesthetic.
• Elongated Coat Styles – For trench coats, puffers and other longline shapes, consider your standard size. While still oversized, the extended lengths help balance out the exaggerated shapes so less sizing down is needed.
• Look at Measurements – Don’t rely only on the Vetements size chart. Compare actual garment measurements to a well-fitting jacket you own. Measure chest, shoulder width, sleeves and length.
• Try In-Person – If you’re able to try on in a boutique, assess the fit. How is shoulder width? Where do sleeves and coat hem hit? Get a feel for how exaggerated shapes drape.

Yes, there is trial and error involved. But that’s the reality when it comes to achieving the perfect “fashionably ill-fitting” Vetements look. With a mix of sizing down, scrutinizing measurements, and just taking the plunge, you’ll find your ideal oversized coat match.

Is The Investment Worth It? The High Price Tags Explained

Let’s address the elephant in the room – Vetements coats are insanely expensive. Is the luxury price tag actually justified?

It depends who you ask. There’s no doubt you’re paying for the hype, exclusivity and brand cache. But the high cost does stem from some real production factors:

• Limited Quantities – Vetements makes very few of each coat style, driving desire and prices up. Low supply but high demand equals sky-high costs.
• Prêt-à-porter Pricing – Despite the streetwear image, Vetements uses fine fabrics and techniques from luxury fashion houses. That prêt-à-porter positioning comes at couture costs.
• Manufacturing in Italy and France – Vetements produces all coats in small Italian and French ateliers. Highly skilled garment workers in Europe drive up labor costs.
• Specialty Fabrics – From premium leathers to technical wool blends, the unique textiles and treatments are sourced at high costs.
• Intricate Details – Coats have special trims, graphics, embroideries and hardware that require artisanal production.

So while the value is inflated by hype, know that craftsmanship and scarcity play real roles in pricing too. For the ultimate anti-fashion statement piece, many Vetements fans happily pay the premium. But the coats are certainly treated as luxury investments!

What Styles and Silhouettes Are Out There?

One of the joys of browsing Vetements coats is discovering all the creative shapes and styles out there. Let’s explore some of the stand-out options from past seasons:

• Oversized Wool-Cashmere Coats – These classic wool coats with peaked lapels showcase Vetements’ signature exaggerated proportions. Often in rich colors like red, blue or grey, they make the ultimate power silhouette.
• Deconstructed Trench Coats – Vetements trench coats have an avant-garde vibe, with asymmetric closures, detached sleeves, and eclectic fabric mixes of leather, denim and cotton.
• Misproportioned Bomber Jackets – The classic bomber gets remixed with one sleeve longer than the other, curved hems, or blown-up scales. They put a unique twist on the streetwear staple.
• Distressed Leather Coats – Leather biker jackets, trench coats and overcoats feature raw edges and uneven distressing for that anti-luxe vibe. The buttery leather breaks in beautifully.
• Oversized Hoodies – Hoodies get the luxury treatment in merino wool and cashmere with extended sleeves and dropped shoulders. It’s sportswear made subversive.
• Graphic Coaches Jackets – Vetements uses vintage-inspired graphics, logos and embroidery to transform basic coaches jackets into ironic anti-fashion.
• Elongated Parkas – Puffer jackets and technical parkas feature elongated lengths and dramatic drapes for bundles of avant-garde style.

The silhouettes runway the gamut from everyday classics given a makeover to entirely new inventions. Pick your preferred flavor of oversight statement piece!

Choosing the Right Colors and Prints

Beyond shapes and fits, Vetements coats come in a vibrant range of colors, prints and graphics. Some options to look for:

• Black – A classic Vetements color, black coats have a bit of punk edge. Great for versatile wear.
• Grey – From dark charcoal to pale silver, grey makes a sophisticated neutral. Works especially well on wool coats.
• Red – Vivid reds make any coat pop. Try a bold red leather option or rich wine wool.
• Blue – Cool navy and cobalt blues bring versatility. A smart color for oversized denim coats too.
• Green – Olive greens and forest tones lend utilitarian, military vibes. Ideal for parka and trench shapes.
• White – Crisp white fabric provides high contrast on silhouettes like puffers. Keep the white pristine for maximal impact.
• Cream – Softer creams complement checks, plaids and houndstooth coats beautifully.
• Yellow – Vibrant yellows attract attention, playing up the avant-garde attitude.
• Woodland Camo – Vetements often uses tonal camo prints in earth tones. Blends into streetwear looks effortlessly.
• Graphic Prints – Coaches jackets feature photography, pop art, logos and typography for an ironic twist.

Don’t be afraid to go bold with color and pattern! The unconventional combos make the coat more “you.”

Sizing Options from XXS to XXXL

While Vetements runs oversized, the brand still aims to be as inclusive as possible. Most coats are produced from XXS up to XXXL.

For women’s coats, XXS equates to a US 00, XS is a US 0-2, and so on up to XXXL as a US 14. Men’s sizing runs from XXS as a 28 up to XXXL as a 40-42.

The extended sizes at both ends of the spectrum allow you to find the ideal oversized Vetements fit no matter your build. Again, don’t be afraid to size down as the proportions are meant to dwarf.

It’s also worth noting that many coats are produced as unisex pieces. So don’t feel beholden to gendered sizing – shop according to your fit preferences. Vetements encourages celebrating individual style.

Fabrics That Are Built to Last

Despite the deconstructed looks, Vetements coats employ some of the finest fabrics around. The material mixes ensure the investment pieces last for years.

• Italian Wool – Wool from top Italian mills gives coats warmth in lightweight, soft blends. The wool holds its shape nicely.
• French Leather – Buttery lambskin and calfskin leathers come in a range of finishes from supple to distressed. Breaks in beautifully.
• Lightweight Cotton – Durable cotton twills, denims and poplins allow oversized shapes to drape perfectly.
• Silk – Silky linings and accents provide ultimate luxury. Light and lustrous.
• Technical Fabrics – Coats feature tech details like water-resistant cottons, breathable mesh insets and insulating Primaloft.
• Cashmere – Plush Italian cashmere offers amazing softness and warmth even in oversized fits. A true luxury material.

While styles may exaggerate proportions and details, these thoughtfully sourced fabrics ensure longevity. Vetements uses only the best!

Demystifying the Cleaning and Care

With all those premium materials, proper care is key to keeping your Vetements coat pristine. Here are some top cleaning tips:

• Check Labels – First, inspect garment labels for any specific instructions. Follow suggested professional dry cleaning vs. washing methods.
• Spot Clean – For light stains, gently blot with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Take care not to over-saturate fabrics.
• Steam or Hand Wash – To refresh coats, use a garment steamer. For deeper cleaning, hand wash delicate coats and lay flat to dry.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals – Skip the bleach and strong cleaners! They can damage rich fabrics and finishes.
• Repair Fast – Don’t ignore loose buttons, torn linings or scuffed leather. Visit a specialty leather/tailoring shop for fast repairs.
• Store Properly – Keep coats on wide, padded hangers in clean garment bags. Avoid folding or creasing the pieces.

With some routine care, your prized Vetements coat will only get better with age. Handle with love and that investment will last and last.

Key Differences From Other Luxury Brands

What sets Vetements apart from other posh outerwear brands like Burberry or Moncler? Beyond the obvious anti-fashion vibe, there are some key factors that differentiate the Vetements experience:

• Hyper Exclusivity – Tiny production runs make acquiring Vetements uniquely challenging (but rewarding once you track down a piece!)
• Avant-Garde Shapes – The extreme silhouettes and proportions feel more experimental and radical compared to traditional luxury styling.
• Bold Graphics – While luxury brands tend toward subtle logos and prints, Vetements embraces loud graphics that wink to street culture.
• Made in Italy and France – Unlike many luxe brands moving production abroad, Vetements keeps manufacturing in Europe.
• Prêt-à-porter Pricing – The coats may reference streetwear but they’re priced at stratospheric couture and ready-to-wear levels.
• Cult Following – The hype around Vetements comes from its vocal celebrity and influencer fans. Wearing the brand shows you’re “in the know.”

At the end of the day, the appeal lies in that fine line Vetements walks between anti-fashion edge and ultra high-end production. The juxtaposition is what fuels the appeal!

Price Breakdown: What to Budget For

Let’s break down what to actually expect to pay when investing in one of these coveted coats:

• $2,000 – $3,500 – More basic oversized wool and cotton coats fall into this “entry level” designer range.
• $3,500 – $5,000 – Unique silhouettes, leather mixes and special details bring mid-tier pricing.
• $5,000+ – The most conceptual pieces with fine fabrics and trims can run up to $10,000 and beyond.

Yes, we are talking serious financial investment here! But devoted followers have been known to save up for years to buy that special occasion Vetements coat. Just be extremely intentional when making such a big fashion purchase.

For the ultimate personalized experience, also consider booking an in-person styling appointment at a flagship boutique. The experts will help collate a wishlist and track down your perfect piece. Now that’s luxury service!

Reviews You Can Trust (From Me!)

As someone ready to join the ranks of Vetements coat owners, I’ve done some deep digging into consumer reviews. Here are the key feedback highlights:

• True to Size – When sizing down appropriately, coats fit oversized as intended. Love the exaggerated look.
• Luxe Materials – Leather, wool, cotton and silk all rate incredibly high-quality. Clearly built to last.
• Unique Style – Wearers feel like they stand out fashion-forward in these unconventional silhouettes.
• Worth the Splurge – For loyal Vetements fans, the sky-high costs equate to long-term value.
• Expert Tailoring – Despite deconstruction, everything is impeccably finished and assembled.
• Runs Warm – Thanks to premium fabrics, even oversized coats provide cozy warmth. Toasty!

I’m thrilled to see the positive reviews matching the brand’s vision. This definitely boosts my confidence in investing in my first piece! The unanimous vote seems to be these coats deliver amazing quality, comfort, uniqueness and attitude. Sign me up!

In-Store or Online: Purchase Pros and Cons

Where should you ultimately buy your Vetements coat – directly in a store or online? Each option has its pros and cons.

Purchasing In-Store:

Pros

• Can see, touch and try on products in person
• Expert sales help for personalized fitting
• Immediate gratification taking your piece home same-day

Cons

• Very limited store locations
• Need to travel to Paris, Zurich, etc.
• Products sell out rapidly in-store too

Purchasing Online:

Pros

• More size/style options from various retailers
• Can shop directly from home anywhere in the world
• Often easier to track down sold-out items

Cons

• Unable to trial pieces for fit before purchasing
• Potential for import fees, duties and taxes
• Waiting period to receive your order

At the end of the day, the in-store experience is unmatched for service. But shopping online offers more selection flexibility. Get the best of both worlds by visiting a boutique for fitting, then ordering online once you know your size!

Return Policy Dos and Don’ts

Given the hefty investment, it’s good to understand any return policy intricacies in case a Vetements coat doesn’t work out. Some key dos and don’ts:

DO:

• Review return terms before purchasing, especially for online orders
• Return any unworn pieces with tags still attached in original packaging
• Try coats on immediately upon delivery and process returns ASAP
• Follow any instructions for initiating a return provided by the retailer

DON’T:

• Assume you can return worn, used or damaged pieces (you likely can’t)
• Take too long initiating the return – most have 7-14 day windows
• Remove labels or make any alterations before deciding on a return
• Ship back without following the step-by-step return procedure

Treat high-dollar deliveries like a try-on appointment. Decide quickly if it’s a keeper, and follow return protocols promptly. That way, you avoid any hassles if needing to send an investment piece back.

Styling Tips: How to Wear Your Vetements Coat

You’ve been patient. You’ve paid the price. Now it’s time to show off your amazing statement coat! Here are my top styling tips:

• Pair oversized coats with slim jeans or leather leggings to balance the proportions
• Add chunky sneakers or boots to complement the exaggerated shapes
• Keep accessories minimal – let the coat be the hero of your outfit
• Play with revealing layers like crop tops and mini skirts to show coat length
• Choose basic tops and bottoms in black, white or grey to make the coat pop
• Cinch with a skinny belt to emphasize the waist if you size down significantly
• Layer over hoodies and tees for an urban streetwear look
• Dress up with tailored trousers and pointy boots for avant-garde polish
• Go all out with a full luxury layered ensemble – furs, silk and leather!

However you style it, your Vetements coat is guaranteed to make a dramatic entrance. Strut your stuff and celebrate being part of fashion history!

In Conclusion, Start Saving Now!

Hopefully this buying journey has prepped you to find your perfect Vetements investment coat. It’s a commitment – financially and stylistically – but the payoff of owning an iconic anti-fashion piece is priceless.

Now the fun begins. Bookmark those retailer sites, scout pre-order lists, and start putting aside a little cash each month. Before you know it, that impossible-to-find Vetements coat will be yours!

It’s exciting to finally be at a place, both financially and confidence-wise, to indulge in one of these extraordinary garments. Fingers crossed I’ll be joining the ranks of Vetements coat owners soon. Let the hunt begin…