RI Beauty Expert: Choosing a New Spring Raincoat

RI Beauty Expert: Choosing a New Spring Raincoat

Gone are the days when spring meant a trip to the city with Mom to buy a new spring coat and black patent leather Maryjane’s. Today, the raincoat is as close as we get to those pretty pastel coats of yore. Still, the ritual of buying a fresh chic raincoat can be a cheery event as we transition to showery spring days.

For the purist

If raincoat to you means trench coat and always will, look no further than the local mall. But remember, this year’s trenches are simpler in structure - you won’t find awkward epaulets and useless wrist buckles. Spring trenches are still classic and menswear-inspired but in decidedly feminine colors like coral and grass green. Look for charmingly large buttons for added interest. Ignore the buckle on the belt and tie it like a robe for that double-take glance. Macy’s/Nordstom/J.C. Penney

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A little whimsy

Spring’s warm temperatures are flirty and changeable so go with a raincoat that’s unique in feel and tone. A yellow broadcloth in an unexpected graphic is geometry softened by color. Or look for a delicate piqué that’s been weatherproofed for a fetching bon ton look. Extra points for linings and trims in tropical hues. Lola is a lovely boutique known for its mix of local designers and pure vintage. Their citrusy lemon-lime coat has a girly bracelet sleeve that hints at warm weather to come but offers that protective New England layer too. Lola, 120 North Main St., Providence

Nautical and nice

With boating days on the horizon, herald in spring with an Ocean State-endorsed nautical reefer look. ZuZu’s Petals is a charismatic boutique that carries France’s St. James line of outerwear. The raincoats are beautifully made with striped linings to match. In navy, baby blue, and white. Check back often for dressier coats later in the season. ZuZu’s Petals, 165 Main St., East Greenwich

Raincoats with freshness and modern spirit meet together in a play for spring. And if you find a pair of black patent Maryjane’s in heels, your look will add that extra Mom-approved sweetness to the season.

Donna Macdonald is a freelance writer who enjoys covering topics of interest to women, especially fragrance, style, beauty. She has also written marketing material for a women's book that hit the New York Times Bestseller list and netted her an up close and personal discussion on the Oprah Winfrey Show. Donna currently writes her own personal blog, alovelyinconsequence.blogspot.com where she also writes about issues close to a woman's heart. Donna believes that when a woman finds beauty in the world, she will find beauty in herself.