While winter is in full swing, I still rotate in my favorite lighter jackets by layering up underneath. A long-sleeve thermal (my family is hooked on these Jockey waffle ones…we each have the full black pantset and look like ninjas slithering around the house) plus a thick turtleneck sweater can make a trench feel just as substantial as a wool coat.
I’ve gotten a number of questions about Boden in the past, but held off on ordering as their sizes go down only to 2P. For those who aren’t familiar with the brand, Boden is a British retailer known for their casual basics, often in fun colors or patterns like this coat. Even though I knew this trench would be roomy on me, I decided to try it to at least experience their quality and sizing.
The quality of this jacket is very good in my opinion. The outer is 100% cotton and is “showerproof” (water-resistance is very much appreciated here in New England). The inside is fully lined with soft fleece for the torso and hood, and a satiny-feel polyester inside the sleeves. There’s a detachable hood, zipper plus button front closure, and side pockets lined in more fleece (a nice surprise for cold hands!). While taking the sleeves apart to slim them from the inside, I noticed that several seams are sealed from the inside with plastic-y tape, which I’m guessing is to aid in water-resistance.
The shape of this coat is mostly straight with a slight A-line silhouette. The material weight is between light to medium, and the cotton outer is more rigid as with most water-resistant trench fabrics. My ideal jacket style is more fitted and waist-cinching, but I think this is an adorable (love the oversized dot print too) and functional option for those who can fit the sizing. 
As previously noted, I usually take two sizes down in American brands so this coat is roomy on me throughout. I did slim both sleeves by 1.5 inches (per this tutorial) and folded them up 1 inch in these photos. For sizing reference, I had a 5’2″ friend who is a 2P in Ann Taylor / LOFT also try this on, and it was snug on her with the sleeves being a tad short. I would estimate this jacket in sz 2P fits similar to between an American 0P-2P or H&M; 4-6, depending on how snug you like your items. I would also guess that as with most brands, their knit, stretchy pieces may run more on the smaller end. See this knit dress fitting nicely on Sydney in a size 2P.
Measurements of my 2P (please factor in some width the lining takes up): 14″ across the shoulders, 17.5″ across the chest, 16.5″ across the waist, 30.5″ length, 22″ sleeve length, 6″ original sleeve width. The measurements for every size are listed for each item under the Measurements tab > Garment measurements section, and I found them to be pretty accurate.
WOW!! what a lovely coat…u just look beautiful amita@glamplaza.com
Hi Tamster, I'm flattered you would trust me with styling you! Unfortunately I'm not qualified to do so professionally, aside from just sharing tips from personal experience through this blog. If you're in LA, I'm sure there is a wealth of personal stylists. I'd look for one with body type and style similar to yourself so you can be sure they understand what you're looking for. Good luck!
Hi Sandy, I straighten it sometimes if I have time in the morning. I know it's damaging though! I usually don't blow dry my hair and just let it air dry then sleep on it to flatten.
Hi there – mine is from last year so I can't speak to this year's version, but mine is a little itchy and I did have to shave off some pills with my sweater shaver ($10 or less at bedbathbeyond and similar stores). I always wear a tee or long sleeve shirt underneath. It serves its purpose though as a layering piece!
Jean, I'm not sure if your location is Boston or Los Angeles since you've posted some videos from Los Angeles. Do you do any consulting for people to assist them in their clothing choices/styles? I am also petite, but almost 50 years old. I'd love to pay someone who has your talent to help me pick choices for my age, somewhat fat belly and yet look professional for work.
I just placed an order yesterday for a shift dress and am hoping it turns out well. Somehow I was mailed a brochure and was intrigued by the pretty outfits! I love your coat and the classic outfit underneath!
you never failed amazed me jean..love the trench coat I love to own one someday
cute!! lovely look 🙂
ladywannabeblog.blogspot.com
I've never shopped at Boden, but this jacket seems great! I love the unexpected stripes for a trench coat and how you styled this outfit together!
Suzie Q
http://www.StyleCueBySuzieQ.com
I bought a dress in 2p from Boden and still found it to be too big for my frame (5'1" and 90lbs). That being said, it was a beautiful dress, and the customer service was absolutely fantastic.
I've bought a few things from Boden before they introduced the petite line. I've found their regular size 2 (the smallest they offered) to be way too big for my 5'2 95 pound frame. As per measurements given on their website, their petite 2 isn't going to be a good fit for me either. I wish they offered smaller sizes for ladies like myself. Otherwise, I love their quality, design, and customer service.
I have never heard of Boden before but will have to check them out now. I love this jacket! Especially the added pop of color from the lining and zipper! Thanks for sharing Jean!
The coat looks nice on you. Thanks for introducing the brand.
I've never shopped Boden, but am in love with your coat. The 2P rainy day mac you show here is already sold out. 🙁
It's the time of year for cozy looks like this!
You look adorable and warm!
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The trench is cute on you, but I think a more fitted style works better. It looks bulky from the back. Boden is a big favorite among the fashion-conscious, more "mature" ladies in my office (suburban Boston). The cuts are forgiving of curves, and the colors are flattering. I've not felt compelled to try anything (I'm 40 but admittedly dress somewhat younger). The sizes seemed big, and their petite selection is not comprehensive, especially in tops.
that trench is adorable! love the stripes! xo
http://allthingsprettyandlittle.blogspot.com/
Jean, do you straight iron your hair, I love how healthy your hair looks….
What a lovely coat! The pop of purple from the zippers is so cute. The whole outfit is adorable and festive, perfect for a holiday brunch!!
Choo Choo
http://choochooli.blogspot.com
Actually cowlneck sweater
Lovely!try uni qlo heat tech. Their stuff is amazing!!!
Happy to see your new post in the freezing morning! I have been looking for a turtleneck sweater. How do you like your Gap one? Does it has a good quality?
I live in London and Boden's never really been viewed as a stylish option here! It's more of a family brand full of mums. Which is why I was surprised to see that this is Boden. They seem to be revamping but some of the stuff looks like cheap up close.
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Boden do some great clothes, however, I do find that the large prints can be over powering on a petite lady. We need small prints to keep us in proportion or we appear to be even smaller than we currently are.
http://www.petitestyleonline.com
Christmas is coming, the latest michael kors bag here, good price quality, introduced to everyone
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i love this!
xoxo from rome
K.
kcomekarolina.com
I do shop at Boden, as I live in the UK. The quality is consistently good to excellent for the price and they have a tremendous guarantee where if you are not happy with an item within a year (!) of purchasing it you can return it. The sizing runs reasonably large as you found out especially for tailored pieces like their trousers. Some of the designs are a bit too classic for me and might target a slightly older market but there are some real gems . I have the same trench in black and even though it is not my most stylish coat, it is so warm and practical that it's definitely a favourite!
I love Boden, too, especially as they offer – as you mentioned – bright colors and wonderful patterns. You look wonderful in this coat <3 And like you I wear woolen underwear in the colder seasons and so I´m also able to wear many kinds of garments without freezing :)
xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
http://www.dressedwithsoul.blogspot.de
I love the sheen on that jacket, the preppy stripes, the purple zipper and contrast lining. Very nice details.
Also, lol @ the image of you guys as ninjas. I want a black set now!
x atelier zozo
I've never shopped Boden, but I just visited their sites and they have so me lovely stuff. You look really nice 🙂
xo
http://pinksole.com