My New Old Coat

And a love letter from Patagonia

For the first time in 36 years, I bought a coat. This may not seem like breaking news to those of you living in places that require snow tires and ear muffs until April. But I’ve been residing in America’s version of the Italian Riviera for a few decades, so I’ve had no need for a proper coat. A slicker, a cardigan, a wrap, perhaps a fleece — any of those sufficed when winter temperatures in Los Angeles dipped to a “chilly” 50 degrees. On the rare occasions when I did visit a colder climate, I would simply wear an old ski jacket or borrow a coat from a friend.

But with less than three months remaining before my exodus from California to North Carolina, I suddenly realized that my current wardrobe, consisting primarily of sandals and tank tops, is not going to suffice in January in the mountains. And, since my Eastward Ho will set me back a pretty penny — I’m shipping all my belongings, including my Prius — there’s not much room in my budget for couture winter wear.

Here’s the good news: having recently turned 60 and segued into the Eileen Fisher stage of life, I no longer care about impressing anyone with swanky labels and slinky frocks. If I could turn back the clock, I’d exchange the armloads of Anthropologie ensembles that ended up on a Goodwill rack for IRA contributions.

My new priorities are comfort (who really prefers a zipper over an elastic waistband?) and thrift. So with those objectives in mind this past weekend, I spent a full five minutes browsing Patagonia’s online store before I selected the first “Worn Wear” black parka in my size. I saved $65 buying used and Patagonia sent a love note lauding me for conserving natural resources with my purchase of a previously worn garment. When I tried on the coat, I felt not only fetching, but also morally superior.

Now, for some snow boots. Recommendations, anyone?