Overgarments

Overgarments are outerwear items worn over other clothing to provide warmth, protection from rain or wind, or to convey formality or style. They are designed to be worn atop base garments and are typically visible as an outer layer in everyday wear.

Common overgarments include coats, jackets, overcoats, raincoats, capes, cloaks, and ceremonial robes. Parkas and anoraks are also overgarments intended for cold or wet conditions. In fashion contexts, the term outerwear broadly encompasses protective shells and insulated pieces worn outdoors.

Materials range from wool and cotton to leather and synthetic fabrics. Many overgarments are lined for warmth and feature elements such as waterproof membranes, windproof layers, hoods, cuffs, zippers, and buttons. Lengths vary from cropped jackets to knee-length or full-length coats.

Historically, overgarments have evolved from cloaks and robes in antiquity and the medieval period to tailored coats in the early modern era and beyond. They play practical roles in climate adaptation and ceremonial or social signaling, and regional styles reflect local weather and cultural norms.

Care depends on material: wool and leather require special cleaning and conditioning, while synthetics can be machine-washed. Waterproof or treated fabrics may need reproofing, and proper storage helps preserve shape and function.