Judy

For length, I'd go with something more comfortable to wear with jeans, say a regular jacket style of waterproof hooded windbreaker (Goretex is great.)Underneath you can wear layers as required.

If you're worried about a deluge, when more coverage than jacket length would be desirable, pack along one of those el cheapo 'disposable' style hooded raincoats to go over the top of your jacket (they'll even go over your daybag or daypack in most instances). These raincoats tend to be quite large, and will give you a lot of coverage for those times when you need it. You can find them for a couple of bucks in discount stores, etc. True, they don't last very long, but you probably won't need to use them that often, either.

Sue, I just noticed that LL Bean has a Goretex parka; knee-length, hooded, unlined,lots of colors, but $169! Their 3/4 length lined raincoat is $149, but takes up more space than the Goretex Stowaway. But either one will last for years, so I should view it as an investment. I'll still try to find a bargain locally, but nice to know there are some quality mailorder options. I thank all of you for your replies. I've spent quite a bit of time investigating the links you all sent and checking Nordstrom's on line. They had a lot of choices, some on sale. I don't normally go to department stores but maybe I'd better. I think there's a Lord & Taylor somewhere around here.

Long vs Short

Years ago I bought a long, black London Fog (not bulky or heavy) microfiber rainproof coat with removable hood. I've used it in Paris, London, Ireland, Switzerland, Prague and Italy and it was perfect. I've worn it with and without the hood and with and without the liner. The style is simple and I've had many compliments.

However, one problem that was mentioned by FainaAgain did happen. I tripped on it going up a curb in Paris and fell and really bashed my knee, so I would recommend the 3/4 or knee length, which are also more in style now anyway.

Check Smartbargains.com and the other shops and sites recommended by posters. I bought a "travel" jacket from T.S because of the inside pockets and wore it once but the fabric was so cheesy that I gave it away.

SeaUrchin. That coat looks great.

for judybarnes, It's the fit and style of a coat that will make it or break it. This is definitely a time I think shopping in person at a decent department store would be well worth the effort (and I hate shopping myself so say this sparingly).

Thanks to you all. On Nordstrom's site I saw some coats on sale that would be perfect. But even more perfect, I borrowed a Gallery black fingertip-length, silky microfiber jacket with velvet-lined hood and zip-in lining from my sister yesterday. So it's free, even though it's shorter than I wanted.

Gallery was a brand on sale at Nordstrom's in a style I like but $119 with no mention of a lining. There's a long one for $131 with a lining. If I'm in a department store (unlikely) I'll check, and I'll keep checking Ross and TJ Maxx (more likely as I pass them weekly). I'll watch the weather reports and unless a deluge is predicted I'll go with the free one from my sister.

Excellent solution
;-)

Sounds perfect! Keep watching the sales and you might find something as nice as your sister's coat.

Have a great trip.