Wearing A Jacket All The Time
Wearing a Jacket All the Time: Reasons and Considerations
For some people, wearing a jacket is not just about fashion or function – it’s a lifestyle. Jackets can provide comfort, security, and a sense of identity to those who have made them a wardrobe staple. But is it healthy or practical to wear a jacket at all times? Let’s explore some of the motivations behind this constant outerwear, as well as factors to weigh if you’re considering joining the club.
Why Some People Wear Jackets Constantly
There are many reasons why some individuals opt to wear jackets as often as possible, no matter the weather or setting. Here are some of the most common motivations:
Comfort and Security
For some, a jacket provides a sense of comfort and security like a warm hug. The extra layer creates a barrier between the person and the external environment. Zipping up feels protective, while big pockets allow you to keep precious items close. For people who struggle with anxiety, sensory issues, or insecurity, the cocooning nature of a jacket can feel soothing.
Signature Style
To others, a jacket becomes part of their identity and personal branding. Just like Superman has his cape and Sherlock Holmes his Inverness coat, some people adopt a jacket style as their signature look. A leather jacket, varsity jacket, or vintage overcoat worn daily becomes an expression of individual style or group affiliation.
Compulsion and Habit
In some cases, the urge to wear a coat at all times may relate to obsessive-compulsive tendencies or habit disorders. The compulsion to keep the jacket on can feel uncontrollable, no matter how hot or uncomfortable it becomes. Body-focused repetitive behaviors like constantly adjusting jacket zippers or tugging at sleeves can also develop.
Hiding Weight Gain or Loss
For some, wearing oversized jackets or layers helps conceal fluctuations in weight. Rather than expose positive or negative changes, enveloping oneself in a big coat provides a shield. This also applies to those trying to hide physical medical issues or conditions.
Regulating Body Temperature
Others are drawn to constant coat-wearing due to being extra sensitive to cold and heat. Medical conditions like anemia or hypothyroidism can make someone feel chilled more easily. Wearing a jacket, even in warm environments, helps maintain equilibrium.
Practicality
Of course, for some it’s purely practical – jackets provide storage and warmth outdoors. For bike commuters and outdoor workers especially, a durable overcoat solves multiple problems. When your livelihood depends on it, keeping that coat on often makes sense.
Factors to Consider Before Adopting This Lifestyle
While some valid reasons exist for wearing a jacket everywhere, there are also some important factors to keep in mind before adopting this as your 24/7 lifestyle:
Overheating Risks
One of the biggest concerns is overheating, especially in warm environments. While it may feel comforting keeping that coat on indoors, your body may end up dangerously hot. Sweating excessively in a jacket can also lead to dehydration, nausea, and fatigue. Listen to your body’s cues and avoid heat stroke.
Impeded Movement
Restrictive outerwear can make certain activities challenging. Driving a car safely or moving through tight spaces can be difficult in an inflexible winter coat. Similarly, range of motion for exercising, playing sports, or performing manual labor may suffer. Adapt with coats allowing greater ease of motion.
Laundry Needs
With frequent all-day use, jackets require washing more often. Read garment labels carefully and choose coats made from materials that can be frequently machine washed and dried. Spot clean as needed between washes. Having duplicates makes it easier to cycle jackets for cleaning.
Changing Situations
Consider when it may be appropriate or required to remove your coat – formal events, hot venues, security checkpoints, etc. Be willing to briefly shed layers in situations where constant outerwear is impractical or disrespectful. Some discretion goes a long way.
Perception by Others
Wearing any single item constantly could be viewed as odd or inappropriate. Be aware of how your habit is impacting professional and personal interactions. Respect dress codes and adjust to avoid negative perceptions. Explain your motivations if questioned.
Cost Considerations
Frequent jacket use means investing more money in quality outerwear built to last. Look for durable yet affordable options that fit your needs. Leather and wool hold up well but require more care. Consider budget-friendly brands, sales, and secondhand shops.
Jacket Styles for All-Day Wear
If you want to test out joining the 24/7 jacket club, some styles will fare better than others for daily wear. Look for these ideal features:
Materials
Choose outer shells made of durable, washable materials like cotton, nylon, polyester blends. Leather and wool also work well but require more frequent cleaning. Avoid suede, silk, or other high-maintenance fabrics.
Weather Resistance
Look for wind and water-resistant coats that will hold up to different conditions. Ample lining provides warmth but also allows ventilation to prevent overheating. Durable water repellent (DWR) coating causes moisture to bead up.
Range of Motion
Try less-restrictive jacket styles that don’t impede movement – bomber jackets, light parkas, or swinging trench coats. Raglan sleeves and stretch fabrics also allow greater mobility.
Pockets
Interior and exterior pockets provide plenty of storage options. Deep cargo and patch pockets plus interior media pockets keep essentials secure and accessible on the go.
Easy On and Off
Zip, button, and snap closures around the front, cuffs, and collar allow you to put on and take off with ease. Adjustable waists, hems, and hoods provide customization.
Lightweight
Look for lighter jackets that won’t quickly feel cumbersome to wear all day. Materials like technical nylon and packable down or synthetic fill work well.
Healthy Habits for Jacket Devotees
If you’ll be wearing your jacket constantly, adopt these habits for better health and hygiene:
- Listen to your body and remove layers to avoid overheating. Stay hydrated.
- Wash frequently according to garment instructions to avoid odor. Hang dry when possible.
- Apply stain protectors and waterproofing sprays to help jackets last longer.
- Periodically air jackets out and use cedar chips/strips to absorb odors between washes.
- Keep a removable base layer (like a hoodie) on underneath to absorb sweat. Change base layers to keep jackets fresher.
- Spot clean as needed using upholstery cleaners or hand washing. Disinfect interior linings.
- Check seams and fabric for damage after each wear and make repairs as needed to prolong lifespan.
- Invest in 2-3 well-made jackets and rotate them to reduce individual wear and extend use.
- Store properly on non-wire hangers in breathable garment bags.
Deciding If Constant Coat Wear Is Right For You
While jackets offer many benefits, taking the plunge into 24/7 wear is a big commitment. Make sure it’s the right choice by:
- Evaluating your motivations and needs. Do the pros genuinely outweigh the cons for your lifestyle?
- Experimenting with wearing a coat more before jumping into full-time. Try a trial 30-day challenge.
- Assessing your reasons over time. A shifting life situation may change your desire for constant outerwear.
- Consulting a therapist if compulsions or emotional issues surround coat wearing. Understand the psychology behind your actions.
- Talking to your doctor if temperature regulation or other health issues are involved. There may be medical treatments to help.
- Considering more moderate approaches – like stylish layered outfits – that allow jacket removal.
The choice is personal. For some, wearing a trusty jacket everywhere genuinely improves life quality. For others, more flexibility works better. Reflect carefully, do your research, then follow your instincts. Most importantly, listen when your body says it’s time to take that coat off.