Your outerwear during colder months is the first thing, and sometimes the only thing, that people see when you are out and about. But contrary to popular belief, that bulky parka or hiking coat is not appropriate to wear with all outfits. And that’s true for men or women.

We might use Edmonton’s winter to excuse any number of fashion faux pas, but there is nothing worse than seeing a gentleman wearing his Mountain Equipment Co-op jacket with his suit coat hanging below it.

So men, here are some tips to make sure you are giving the right impression and looking stylish.

One of the most versatile coats you can buy is a three-quarter-length car coat in a nice wool or, better yet, a great pattern like a plaid. This transitional coat is great with suits as it will cover up your suit coat, but it is also very stylish with slim cut jeans and nice shoes.

Sterling Derk from Derk’s Menswear advises, “Look for details such as coloured buttons and buckles.” Derk says, “Look for detail under the collar of your coat such as leather, brightly coloured felt or patterned material so when you flip your collar up to stay warm there is additional interest.”

One detail that is very hot right now is quilting, which is also being incorporated into topcoats. This style of coat is very easy to dress up or dress down. Again it’s a great option for a transitional coat.

Some coats come with cheaters, which are false vests that can be zipped out of the front of the coat. If you do remove it, however, this will open up the gorge of your coat to reveal your shirt. For any coat with a gorge, and most top coats have a lower gorge, wear a scarf. This will not only help keep you warm, but is a chance to show some personal style.

Accessories can help to beat the grey-black winter blues: get a great silk scarf with a wool backing. It looks dressy — and keeps you warm. And if you’re lucky enough to have a breast pocket on your coat, throw a pocket square in there to show you are man with good taste and a sense of style.

Jeff Morter, Simons merchanising manager, points to another trend we’re seeing this season in men’s outerwear: Double breasted coats with details such as belts and reversed seaming. Extra-long coats are also making an appearance.

I particularly like long coats for an evening and more formal look; they are a must when wearing a tuxedo or tails.

So remember, men, when heading out during the winter months, that your outwear is a reflection of your style and is often your only chance to make a good impression.

ABOUT THIS CONTENT: This story was produced by the Edmonton Journal’s editorial department as a result of Simons’ interest in this topic. Simons was not given the opportunity to put restrictions on the content or review it prior to publication.