One night, we were returning from a movie in downtown Detroit, and I was shivering in the People Mover Station and using good husband as a windbreak. "Tomorrow, you're going to go out and get yourself a coat," he told me. I've been having difficulty with this decision and have put it off for two years. I wear a thin cape I made, single layer wool, and it doesn't cut the wind. It also means no carrying a bag over the shoulder (that just pulls up one side of the cape into your armpit) and it chokes you when you sit down in the truck or on the train.
So I was worried about the whole "mens garment, women's garment" quandary. And trying hard to balance that with sensible warmth (Detroit is not where Jesus walked in his sandals. It's COLD here). And I wanted to be thrifty, but the thrift shops didn't have anything that was plain enough or well made to last, or reasonably priced.
This is a very black, thick, men's 100% wool coat, raglan sleeved to fit well, and I took off the Mystery Parts (you know, the parts you have left over when you assemble the lawnmower or new bookcase). I put a snap at the neck to replace a button that showed, and the others are all enclosed in a hidden fold-over so I left them. I took off the belt loops and belt, and will make a purse from those. It is longer than my modest skirts, very well made, with three very large pockets inside. $119 after tax, thirty minutes of adjustments to make it plain
enough for me, and it is delightfully thick and warm.
Best of all, when I bought the coat, I was able to answer curious questions from three men who wanted to know why I dress the way I do, and we all said a prayer together for Detroit before I left there. Now, when else would those fellows meet a Plain Quaker? And have a chance to introduce a religious sharing into their workplace? I believe verything happens for a reason. 
Looks warm and nice 'n plain.
Funny how you brought up that you view coats as men's wear as I was seeing them in that light too but couldn't decide what to do to replace them...shawl, cape, etc. All women's wear are not easy to get around in and do things in.lol.
Posted by: wendy | January 14, 2008 at 08:40 AM
Oh nice choice and looks fabulous all fixed the way you wanted it!! way to go and a great price as well!! I still wear the old fleece MEN's jacket too and have yet to find a nice women's coat I like and isn't outrageously expensive!! way to go!! Hugs Linda
Posted by: Primdoll | January 14, 2008 at 08:29 PM