First, the sickbed report. My doctor says it is just a nasty virus, and I should stay in bed. I suspect enterovirus. Today it is hard to breathe. But they ruled out pneumonia (at least for now). It's watch and wait.

They did not say I had to stop planning my wardrobe.

I have not had a chance to add my coat tally to the recent thread about coats. But for winter coats, I currently own 3.

1. Dark blue-grey (slate) puffer coat with removable hood/ faux fur by Lole. It is an extremely well made and warm coat but it does have a slight "gear" vibe to it. Which makes sense, because it's made by a gear company. (Going into its 4th season). I love this coat, but the grey (while flattering) can weigh on me after a few months of frequent wear. I live in a grey place.

2. Wool blend military style colourblock peacoat by Vince Camuto. Got this on a steal from Winners a few years ago and wear it a LOT. It has only a thin poly lining so is not as warm as my other coats. And it is quite fitted. But it does layer over a leather jacket or blazer and is a great travel coat. You may not be able to tell from the photos but it is ink up top and black on the bottom. (Going into its 3rd season).

3. Hilary Radley coat in cranberry red wool/ alpaca. This is my dressiest coat and also my most luxurious. I love it. It was my first major purchase on joining YLF. I am sorry this photo is so horrid. It's not quite knee length but is my best coat for skirts/ dresses. The neckline can be worn up, like a funnel neck; folded over (I am not sure what that neckline is called); or open for an exaggerated collar look. I love this variety. (Going into its 4th season).

I would like to add another coat to my collection. I am considering a cocoon shape to accommodate bulkier knits. I am also considering another puffer coat.

If I get a new puffer I would strongly prefer a colour or white/ cream. If anyone has any leads, please let me know. Sadly, I'm sized out at LLBean. And usually (though not always) sized out at Land's End.

I was also hoping for colour in a new wool coat, if I get one. Coats are among my statement items, I wear them a lot, and the colour makes me happy.

Problem? I haven't found many coloured coats that could work for me this year. Alas.

Here are the J. Crew cocoon coats I have been mulling about. The first one is a lovely colour for me (I think) but reads so much more casual to my eye.

The second is elegant and sophisticated, and as a neutral, probably more versatile. But would that be soul-sucking beige on my complexion? I can wear oatmeal and taupe and a pink-beige very well -- but a yellowy beige makes me look as bad as I can possibly look.

Also, can anyone tell me the difference between double cloth and stadium cloth?

Sizing is a whole other issue. Ugh. Can't try on where I live. Have to guess. Will have to pay big time for shipping back if there are any mistakes.

Thank you for your thoughts!!