How to Find a Great Wool Coat

October is Wool Month and there's no better time to celebrate NATURAL fibers and excellent clothes!

I’m getting my closet in order for chilly days, and one of the items I’ve been missing in my wardrobe is a good wool coat. I have an ancient chesterfield from my mother, and while it’s in great condition and extremely warm, it’s also incredibly heavy and hard to wear at times (mainly on the subway!) I was so happy when Liz Williams, the founder of The Checkroom, reached out to see if I’d be interested in working together. Liz is a trained seamstress and Parsons graduate who set out to create a product that matches the quality of vintage coats.

Liz Williams, the founder of The Checkroom

I’m always on the hunt for excellent quality clothing, and nowadays it really is a hunt. I’d had The Checkroom on my radar for a while, thanks to a browse through my Instagram explore page, and I was immediately impressed with Liz’s commitment to the craft of clothing, instead of just chasing new trends. (And anyone who states that their focus “is on creating fewer, better, quality pieces that are built to last” is pretty obviously my kind of person!)

Before partnering with Liz, I did my research—she uses wool that’s exclusively American-made; the fabric is woven in the US; every coat is made in her Chicago studio. There are very few companies who take this level of care with their product—did you know that 90% of American clothing is currently made overseas? (You can read more about Liz’s commitment to made in the US clothing here.)

The weaving process: photo courtesy of American Woolen

The Checkroom’s coats are made-to-order, though a small number of popular styles and colors are kept in stock for quick shipment. However, unlike most made-to-order companies, you’re able to return and exchange your coat—incredibly helpful if you need it! When I first started working with Liz, we tried out two wool coats (the Tuxedo and the Southport)—while both were beautiful, it was so nice to be able to choose the style and color that best suited me. I also valued the opportunity to chat about sizing with Liz directly, ensuring we chose the best fit.

There are so many great things about The Checkroom, but the one that resonates the most is the emphasis on family tradition and love of craft. Liz’s grandmother taught her mother to sew; her mother taught Liz. Taking those family lessons, she created a company that highlights her own personal values and creates beautiful pieces for confident women. How incredible is that?

I love how this wool coat can be styled with a casual outfit! I’m wearing these jeans (c/o), these boots (c/o), and this sweater.

You’ll be seeing me in my Southport all winter! If you want to check out The Checkroom for yourself, you can use FEWERBETTER100 for $100 off your purchase, or click on this link.

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Thank you to Liz and The Checkroom for sending me the beautiful Southport overcoat! I am so happy to support this small business and hope you love their coats as much as I do.