Hi there,
I was in Paris in March and loved every minute of it. It was a bit chilly, but I wore my winter ski jacket, so I stayed nice and warm.

Everyone (just about) was wearing these great wool coats, and they were so nice. I've wanted to buy one for a while, but never did since I have so many other coats. Most of the Parisians would wear the black wool coats, many with the collar somewhat up. Their coats look a bit different from those I've seen sold in stores in the US.

Anybody know what I'm talking about? I should have just bought one there, but got a lot of shoes instead. I'm just wondering where's the best place to buy these wool coats (for women).

I have always had great luck at Filene's in Boston and Macy's in NYC. The Nieman Marcus catalogue had some beautiful wool coats this past winter, and Harrods of London also had some beautiful outer garments.

5 years in Boston taught me that the outer garments are really important for setting the tone, so I hope you find a nice one!

Filene's is no more. Bought by the parent company of Macy's. Downtown Crossing is still open but only to get rid of remaining high end merchandise.

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where's the best place to buy these wool coats (for women)
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do you mean in france? in the US? (if so where)? or just general ideas?

the best way to get french wool coats with the most character for the lowest price is used. in london, the oxfam shop in kensington (many french expats here) often has some good choices. likewise, there is a new charity shop roughly across the street from the kensington oxfam shop that had many choices.

the most consistent supply of vintage french wool coats was available from a french run shop in stables market camden. sadly, i believe this has closed but i'm not totally sure (didn't see it last time i was there but wasn't particularly looking for it).

in the US, i have seen a few such coats available at a vintage clothing shop on newbury street (probably only one or two).

it's likely that the majority of the coats that you were seeing in Paris were not the finer ones that i'm referring to that are available used (and new at a price) but just inexpensive ones such as the ones sold at H&M.

I was wandering through Macy's one day looking for winter socks and stumbled upon the most magnificent dark charcoal gray cashmere coat (under $100) that fit perfectly and was beautifully designed (with terrific pockets).

Even so, it's not what I'd take to Paris (or NYC, or London, etc...), when packing light (and I do not).

Far more practical, for me anyway, in the chillier weather, is a waterproof down coat with a hood (to preclude the need for dragging and umbrella all about every day), if I take only one coat.

Why don't you just purchase a black wool peacoat at an Army/Navy store? Dress it up with a big wooly scarf a la The Olsen Twins. You will look very chic.