What is the Difference Between Peacoat and Overcoat

The main difference between peacoat and overcoat is that peacoat is a thigh-length double-breasted coat while overcoat is a knee-length, single or double-breasted coat that is heavier.

Peacoats and overcoats are two types of popular and versatile outercoats you can wear in winter. There are several differences between peacoat and overcoat.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is a Peacoat 
     – Definition, Features
2. What is an Overcoat
     – Definition, Features
3. What is the Difference Between Peacoat and Overcoat
    – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Peacoat, Overcoat

What is Peacoat

A peacoat is a popular and versatile outercoat that provide warmth against the cold. It is a short, double-breasted outercoat made of coarse woollen cloth. Originally, peacoats were worn by sailors of European and American navies. Therefore, peacoats were usually made in navy colour. Today, however, both men and women wear peacoats in different colours and styles. In fact, they are versatile outwear or winterwear you can wear for both casual and professional looks. They can make a formal look trendy and smarten up a casual look.

If we look at the cut and style of coat, peacoats usually have double-breasted fronts and broad lapels with wooden, plastic or metal buttons and slash or vertical pockets. Single-breasted coats are also available. Moreover, peacoats have a shorter length (usually extend to the thigh), allowing greater freedom of movement. Another main feature of peacoats is that they are made of heavy wool.

What is an Overcoat

An overcoat is a long coat you wear on of top of another garment.  They are perfect for cold weather, where staying warm is important. If you want to stay warm and stylish, an overcoat is a good choice for you.

Overcoats are generally made from heavy materials such as fur or wool. They can cover most parts of the body since they reach below the knees. You can also wear an overcoat with a suit. In fact, this is the only type of coat that can complement a suit since it is long enough to cover a blazer or a suit jacket. Overcoats can also be single-breasted or double-breasted. Double-breasted overcoats need to be worn fully buttoned since an unbuttoned may give the coat a big and floppy look. Single-breasted coats, on the other hand, can be worn buttoned or unbuttoned. They can give you a sharp and form-fitting look. 

Difference Between Peacoat and Overcoat

Definition

A peacoat is a short, double-breasted overcoat made of coarse woollen cloth while an overcoat is a long coat you wear on top of another garment.

Style

Peacoats are mainly double-breasted, while overcoats can be single-breasted or double-breasted.

Colour

Moreover, peacoats usually come in navy colour while overcoats come in different colours.

Length

While peacoats have a thigh-length, overcoats have a knee-length.

Weight

In addition, peacoats are lightweight than overcoats.

With Suits

Peacoats don’t go well with suits or blazers since they are short.  Overcoats, on the other hand, go well with suits.

Conclusion

Peacoats and overcoats are two types of popular and versatile outercoats you can wear in winter. The main difference between peacoat and overcoat is that peacoat is a thigh-length double-breasted coat while overcoat is a knee-length, single or double-breasted coat that is heavier.

Reference:

1. “Mens Coat Guide – How to Choose the Perfect Outwear Coat.” Hockerty, 12 Feb. 2020, Available here.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Man wearing peacoat and sunglasses” (CC0) via Pikrepo
2. “Young white bearded male wearing black turtleneck top with long overcoat and eyeglasses carrying a laptop, as he walks on the street” (CC0) via Pikrepo