Nieve

The details forgot to mention that yes, there are hand warmer pockets. I originally ordered Size 6 and needed to exchange for a Size 4. I'm 5'5" and 120 lbs - I wear 6 in Spyder Vail, but this model runs a bit roomier and longer. It's a sweet jacket and the waist and hip adjustments can't be beat for giving the perfect silhouette. I'm layering it with an XS The North Face Aconcagua vest for when it's really cold (I get cold very easily). The ample pockets and zips make this a real functional jacket, not just fashionable.

I searched, high and low, for a stylish, slightly edgy, yet feminine, "puffer." I bought (and returned) several different varieties, before finding my "dream puffer" -- the Metropolis - by The North Face. The clever use of webbing detail creates a very slimming and hour-glass-ish silhouette - and even ups the comfort factor (less bulky). The faux fur detail and the slight sheen/taffeta like crispness (no shine) of the fabric elevate the formality of this "puffer". And the slightly cropped length makes the proportion quite smart. So for me, the Metropolis is perfect. Re: the sizing. I personally was looking for a "streamlined fit" (with the intention of wearing my puffer as a casual, yet very well designed, everyday coat). In most brands, I am an XS (5'5", 125). For the Metropolis, I own the XS in the Black, and the S in the Moonlight Ivory - I "just liked" the slightly larger size in the Ivory. Accessorization: I pair both my Metropoles with a "contrasting color" snowflake beanie cap (mostly black/grey with the Ivory, and mostly ivory/pale blue with the Black). Re: occasions to wear. I wear suits to work (the "dress up" kind, alas, and not a snow "suit" :-), and the Metropolis rises to the occasion and looks as tailored (and edgy) with a skirt and heels, as it does with trim jeans and a turtleneck on weekends. Special Hint: For extra flexibility, I also bought the trim-fitting Alegna Vest (also North Face), which happens to layer perfectly and weightlessly under the Metropolis. (Just be aware that the length of the Metropolis is slightly cropped, so your layers most likely should also be on the shorter side).