I love this coat more every day. I bought it in April, prior to moving overseas to a very cold country, and when I first tried it on, I wasn't so sure about it. However, now that the cold weather has broken out, I find that this coat has absolutely everything I need. First, there are two deep, easily accessible pockets on the outside, (big enough for gloved hands), as well as a great inner pocket-- perfect for winter when my jackets start to double as a purse. I love that it buttons all the way up to the neck so that I stay warm. The cowl neck wasn't that huge or dramatic, but it's different enough to stand out among all the other black pea coats. The fact that you can wear it different ways is great and makes it so much more versatile. It's also twice as thick as any other winter coat I've owned, which I so appreciate now that it's 30 degrees and only October. It definitely runs big-- I'm normally a size 10 and the 8 is still nice and loose over a regular shirts, and just perfect over a bulky sweater. The sleeves are a bit long on my petite, 5"3 frame, but I may decide to have them altered. It hangs beautifully and is really flattering on a curvy figure. I kind of felt like a rockstar walking down the road wearing this and when I got home the first time after wearing it, I was reluctant to take it off. The quality of this coat is just outstanding. The super soft satin lining, the feel of the wool, all the little details-- I'm so glad I sucked up the cost and went for better quality.