All the fashion mags were touting 2006-2007 as the year of the coat. But since the weather hasn't - at least until this week - gotten cold enough to warrant either the expense or the effort, I decided to make do with the one I already own. Nevertheless, El Ninos and global warming aside, I got curious about the things I should look for if I ever did decide to plonk down some cash.

Gregg Andrews, a Chicago-based fashion director at Nordstrom, offered some pointers:

Before you shop, establish what you need a coat for - will you wear it to work over a suit, over jeans? Will you be wearing it mostly in your car, on public transportation or does it need to withstand snow, rain, cold - all three? Do you want something dressy? Do you need something for a conservative environment, like Capitol Hill? Are you a gadget hound who wants lots of pockets?

Since coats are an investment, you should buy the best you can afford. Cashmere is warmer than wool, but not as durable and a lot pricier. Check to see how the lining is sewn in, how the seams are finished. Banding at the wrists will offer more warmth, as will a hood. Double-breasted-styles and high collars also give more warmth. If you want your coat to do double-duty for day and evening, look for one with a detachable fur collar in black or charcoal.

The classic wool coat has long been the standard bearer of winter wear, but, says Andrews, this year the so-called puffer coat has been attracting lots of interest. "Puffer coats are coming in longer lengths, especially for women. Many of them are made from a techno fabric with a metallic luster, which makes them look dressier and suitable for wearing over business suits or jeans. They're fashionable, warm and lightweight."

"A trench coat is a wardrobe must for both men and women," says Andrews. And with a zip-out lining and detachable hood, it offers versatility that can work in all sorts of weather except the coldest. The classic trench is still a favorite, but updates come in white, pastels and metallics, in addition to printed fabric and leather.

Whatever coat you choose, though, when it comes to practical, you're better off with neutral colors (camel, gray, navy, black, brown or taupe) and classic double-breasted or belted styles. Andrews says that it's far easier, not to mention less expensive, to change the look of a coat with accessories than to buy a new one. You can always add interest with brightly colored gloves, patterned scarves and hats.

Armed with this info, the frigid forecast for the days ahead, and stores still stocked with winter coats deeply discounted, now may be the ideal time to buy one.