Patagonia downtown parka is wonderful

By amy senninger Ranked #71 - Women's Down Jackets January 19, 2012

I can not even begin to bemoan my down parka woes. I had to order and return three others before I took a chance on this one, having read the reviews. Boy, was I happily surprised. This down coat is actually flattering. I know it's hard to believe and I thought it just looked great on the models because theyre so skinny, but it looks fantastic even on regular me who is a 5'5" normal sized six. The fabric is lovely, a sort of satiny soft hand without being flimsy. The Prussian blue is true to Patagonias web site photos, a deep blue with very slight greenish undertones and slight black undertones. Sort of the night sky color right after sun set. This coat is very cozy and warm. I tried it with no layers but a thin tee on a freezing day and found that I was asking too much for below zero in Michigan but, when I wear an camisole, long sleeve shirt and a very thin sweater I am totally warm with no bulk or weight. In other words, sensible but not excessive layers. The only thing I am unhappy about is the lack of a snap way up high on the neck/hood area to keep drafts out, something other reviews mentioned. Are you listening, Patagonia? I mean this coat is not exactly cheap and it annoys me that I have to spend money to add this but given that this is the only fault I could find, I am very happy. As far as size goes, I am glad I read reviews and got a small. Normally I am between a small and a medium with chest 34 1/2 waist 30 hips 37. Usually my waist is bigger than the size chart small but my hips and chest match. The small fits snug but very pretty, even with a normal weight sweater. More important, this coat fits my short torso really well. Often I have to order petite sizes which then have too short sleeves. I say go for it, it's worth the money!

View Details: Patagonia Downtown Loft Down Parka - Women's

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