3 Things to Consider With a Rain Jacket -

Rain jacket (xxl), Stripe Breton Button Tee (1x), Denim (16w), Boots (up half size)

Can you believe it is officially FALL?! I am over the moon, personally. I think a chillier and cozier chapter to quarantine is very welcomed at this point. I still manage to get outside a lot during the Fall and early winter. Which brings me to my next point, that a good rain jacket is a closet must! It really is a year-round essential, but find myself reaching for it the most in the fall and spring. Even though it may not rain as extensively in the fall as it does spring, I find that this is the perfect outer layer over a fleece or sweater for when that chilly breeze or drizzle comes to town. Even when it’s not raining, it’s a great outer shell. But, there are a few things to consider before buying a rain jacket, that in the end, will make a big difference.

I’ve had some bad rain jackets in my days, and I mean bad. Mainly because I was not taking into account the ways in which I would actually wear one, and what I would be wearing with it! I love this rain jacket, it fulfills all my criteria I will chat about below, and it is size-inclusive! As you’ll gather from it’s reviews, it does sell out quickly every year. I would say it runs true to size with a little room, I am in the xxl. Okay, so here are my tips!

YOUR BUDGET

The number one thing to consider before buying a rain jacket is your budget! There are some pretty decent rain jackets that are inexpensive, but they are far and few between. This is a piece that will see a lot of activity, so you want it to be an item that will last, without stretching yourself thin financially. So, it is always important to set your budget and find the best one within your spend criteria! You will likely only need one or two raincoats in your closet, so it is definitely an area worth investing in, instead of another sweater or two! The one I am wearing is budget friendly, considering I have had it for three years and wear it a lot! In the long run it is definitely worth it!

YOUR LAYERING HABITS AND SILHOUETTE NEEDS

Before buying a rain jacket, think about what you would be wearing underneath it. Are you one to layer before heading out the door? If so, find one that has a little extra room. I love my rain jacket because there is an adjustable waist, which is perfect for layering. If I am just wearing a tee like I am here, I cinch the waist. If I am layering up with a fleece or sweater, I loosen the waist to accommodate. Before getting a raincoat, I also took my figure into consideration! Many rain jackets are cropped or shorter, so before taking the plunge on one, think about your silhouette needs. Is it long enough for how much coverage I prefer? Is it loose or fitted? Do I have room to layer and adjust as needed? I knew I needed one with a little extra length because that is what works on my body, and this one is perfect. With curves, there is that sweet spot of not being too long, but being long enough that it works with our figure.

YOUR ROUTINE

This may be the most obvious one, but when you’re purchasing any piece of outerwear it is always important to think about your routine and lifestyle! How often are you going outside? Will you be wearing your jacket to work or mainly around town? If you are an outdoorsy person or live in an area with an extreme climate, maybe best to consider a Patagonia-type raincoat! If you are facing the elements mainly getting from point a to point b, and need one for everyday, you will likely do well with a J.Crew or LL Bean rain jacket. Also think about where you will wear it. Since you likely won’t have a lot of rain jackets in your closet, it is important that what you do have is versatile! I love mine because I can confidently wear it into the office as a polished outer layer, but also style it with jeans and sneakers just as easily.