4 Things To Look For When Buying a Parka

Okay, so winter is almost outta here. It’s basically March. Holy moly. But if you’re like me and live in a indecisive, constantly PMS-ing climate, like Toronto, Canada, you’ll know that the parka is still out and in full force. When days are warms, nights feel like you’re in the mountains… and that definitely calls for my trusty parka.

Parkas have definitely received a bad rep over the years (and especially in Canadian fashion), of being those annoying, bulky, non-stylish items that you have to wear to avoid getting frost bite. And although the latter is most definitely true, I definitely think there are ways to find not only the best parka to keep you warm, but one that’s also going to look chic AF over your cute layered outfits.

Almost every year, I treat myself to a new parka (perhaps as a little sunshine to the otherwise gloomy reality of winter). And with most of the harsher winter months behind us, it’s the perfect time to snag those parkas on a deal. Having purchased so many (and yes, my winter storage box is legit a massive one), I feel like there are key components of the winners that I now try to look for in any new addition.

Parkas lack in typical cool-factor, what they make up for in price haha So you definitely want to be sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck when you’re picking one of these babies up. Sharing all the things you should look for when buying the right parka and some of my favourites I’m keeping my eye out for below:

Comfort

When you’re wearing this thing every day for months on end, you gotta make sure it’s comfortable. After all, the best parkas should make you feel like you’re floating around in your duvet haha Make sure to bring bulky sweaters and lots of layers when you’re trying it on so that you know whether to size up. If it squeezes your armpits and you feel too restricted, get the size up.

Fit

So the reason parkas get such a bad rep is because they’re typically not very flattering. Anyone getting images of the Michelin man in their heads? When you’re looking for the right parka, make sure to see if there are adjustable straps along the waist, a belt, or something like that to give you a bit more shape.

Statement

The classic black parka is exactly that, classic. But if you’re looking for something that’s going to keep you looking a bit more chic, opt for a bold colour, statement sleeves, and prints, for that touch of fash-un.

Warmth

Most of all, you’re looking for this. Make sure to look for quilted interiors and down-filled jackets. The warmest parkas are the ones that feel like a pillow when you sit on them… I call it the “sit-test”

I found my new found parka love in this stark white Canada Goose jacket I picked up from Shopbop. I love the way that it looks sporty, but also really bold with the bright white. It also has backpack straps on the inside that help with the whole “freezing outside-boiling in the mall” conundrum.

Rounding up some of the other parkas I’ve coveting below:

SHOP PARKAS

FOR STYLE, WARMTH, AND COMFORT

1. Mackage Trish Coat (Shopbop, $1209.64)
2. Mackage Kimia Parka (Shopbop, $496.59)
3. Hilfiger Tartan Short Down Coat (Shopbop, $540.13 – SALE)

4. A.W.A.K.E. Orange Pugger Jacket (Shopbop, $1343.33)
5. Canada Goose Chelsea Parka (Shopbop, $1050.47)
6. Mackage Rena Twill Parka (Shopbop, $1209.64)

7. Canada Goose Kensington Parka Red (Shopbop, $1139.60)
8. Canada Goose Kensington Parka White (Shopbop, $1139.60)
9. Ulla Johnson Roi Puffer Jacket (Shopbop, $1597.99)

At the end of the day, what you’re looking for is something that you’re going to love and wear with just about anything for months out of the year (and if you’re in Canada, well, basically all year round haha). Make sure you find something that keeps you as warm as your tropical dreams do!

Happy parka shopping friends!

mel inspired