So far, I am pretty impressed with this raincoat; it is attractive, genuinely long without the higher price point of a maxi raincoat (it hits in the middle of or below the knees on people under 6 ft, seemingly), and has the basic features required to keep it versatile between activities and contexts (a two-way zipper and some thigh coverage for cycling, ample pockets, elegant, timeless looks), as well as some unexpected ones (the packable hood is nice and un-dorky, though a bit tedious to pack for me so far). The waterproofing seems excellent right now, though I worry about it becoming compromised sooner than I'd like. I also feel that the papery material will be light enough for summer. The dewy Lolë logo is a very cute touch, and mysteriously not featured in any product photos!
I wish the waist tie was longer, and threaded through external fabric belt loops rather than hidden and fixed in place--it does not hit at my natural waist, and is thus difficult to tie in a way that distributes the extra material comfortably. I also wish it was possible to wear the collar folded downwards by means of buttons affixing it to the neckline; it gets in the way at moments, and the only option is to unzip and expose the neck while the collar gapes awkwardly and sticks up stiffly. I suspect others will have similar problems. I am not happy with the stingy hook-and-loop placket closures on a jacket of this price; buttons/hidden magnets promote longevity, and buttons do appear on the cuffs! Drawcords on the hood would have added functionality. Additionally, I think the sleeves could have been longer and potentially foldable, in keeping with the other long, oversized and packable features of the coat. With all the foldable/hidden/packable/adjustable bits of the trench, I also think a few reflective details that can be hidden or shown depending on the context would have been a stellar inclusion, but I am biased by cyclist-dom. Lastly, I am also unsure how long the delicate-seeming material will maintain its nice look without accumulating scratches, tears, or white streaks, as poly-shelled raincoats often do.
Fit-wise, I think it's a bit odd that I needed an XS as someone who is usually about a size 6. The S had bizarre proportions and did not give a 'roomy, oversized vibe'; unless smoothed down and kept immobile, it *billowed* and tented in the bodice (even over an ample bust), and its width, without a proportional increase in arm length, made it difficult to easily extend and lift my arms without lifting the whole coat upwards as well. The XS is a huge improvement (without being tight in the chest at all), and there is still room for a medium-weight layer underneath for someone my size.
Overall, my expectations are met--for someone searching for this complementary balance of function and aesthetic merit on a ~$200 budget, I think this is one of the best options currently available in Canada, even if it is apparent where corners were cut in the design.
