Trend Envy: Anoraks

Anoraks are the new trench coat

By Yelena Moroz
Published: Mar 03, 2008

Did you know that in Britain, nerds are referred to as “anoraks?” That’s definitely going to change after this spring, since the anorak is getting its moment as the perfect way to transform a ho-hum look into an urban fashion statement. Finally, designers are making them in styles that don’t look like they escaped from an L.L. Bean catalogue. Not that we didn’t love the waterproof staple before, but come on, it didn’t exactly look sexy with heels. Until now. Here is how to work an anorak day, night or weekend.

In general, jackets that hit mid-thigh are the most versatile because they can be worn with short dresses as well as skinny pants and leggings. Bring out the finer points in anoraks with dangling drawstrings, roomy pockets, saturated brights and prints; Etro, Daryl K & Kerrigan, and Richard Chai can teach you a few lessons. Shorter styles can even look a little Katherine Hepburn if you find a version with a pulled-in waist.
Etro, Daryl K & Kerrigan, Richard Chai
Sure, you can wear an anorak while shopping, walking your pooch, or loitering in Barnes & Noble.
But you can also wear one to the office, even if it’s a conservative atmosphere. Opt for a jacket
that’s simple but full of character, like the white number by Pringle of Scotland [shown]. It’s all in
the details: side pockets, rolled-up sleeves and ‘ventilation’ slits that add a subtle pizzazz. You
might feel a little strange lingering by the water cooler in outerwear, but you won’t fall victim to subtemperature air conditioning when sitting at your desk. Pair with prints and movable fabrics
(as shown) to balance athleticism with femininity. Pringle, Preen, Nina Ricci
Yearning to have the most fun with this style? Take it on a date or a late night soirée, at say, a posh
nightclub. Go for texturized metallics with open lapels and you’ll score high on the trend-o-meter.
Lela Rose, anorak-inspired-wear-extraordinaire, demonstrated with her plethora of styles that a
dressed up, sporty motif is more Spice Girl than hiker. Keep the collar high and you’ll reign over
the glitter-glazed bimbos. Lela Rose, Iceberg, Vera Wang