There’s nothing quite like the thrill of unboxing a brand-new winter coat.
Whether you’ve splurged on a classic wool number, nabbed a bargain puffer, or finally found the perfect trench, a new coat is more than just a way to keep warm—it’s a statement.
The style, the cut, the colour—all of it says something about who you are and how you plan to take on the chilly months ahead.
Are you bold and bright, or sleek and sophisticated? Maybe you’re all about comfort, or perhaps you’re chasing the latest trends.
But before you strut your stuff down the street or to your next coffee catch-up, there’s one tiny—but crucial—detail that could be letting your whole look down.
And, as it turns out, it’s a mistake made by thousands of Australians every winter.
Let’s talk about the ‘stay stitch’ (also known as the ‘vent stitch’). If you’ve ever noticed a little X-shaped stitch holding together the back vent of your new coat or blazer, you’re not alone.
This stitch is there for one reason only: to keep the coat’s shape during shipping and packaging. It’s not meant to be a permanent fixture.
Yet, every winter, you’ll spot people—even the most stylish among us—walking around with that little stitch still in place. Fashion stylists and retail experts have called it their ‘pet peeve’, and once you notice it, you’ll see it everywhere.
Why does this matter? Well, the vent at the back of your coat is designed to give you freedom of movement and a better fit.
Leaving the stay stitch in place can make your coat look stiff, restrict your movement, and, let’s be honest, it’s a bit of a fashion faux pas.
It’s like leaving the tag on your hat or the sticker on your new shoes—a small detail, but one that makes a big difference.
The fix is simple: grab a pair of scissors (or a seam ripper if you’re feeling fancy), snip the X-shaped stitch, and gently pull out the threads. Voilà! Your coat is now ready to move with you, not against you.
This isn’t just a tip for coats, either. Blazers, suit jackets, and even some skirts and dresses can come with similar stitches.
And don’t forget about those pesky stitched-shut pockets! They’re often sewn closed to keep the garment looking crisp in-store, but you’re meant to unpick them before wearing.
If you’re feeling a bit sheepish because you’ve been unknowingly sporting your stay stitch, don’t worry—you’re in good company.
Credit: THE ICONIC / TikTok
Even fashion editors and influencers have been caught out. In fact, one office worker was recently outed for still having the stitch on her blazer, and it was swiftly snipped away with the office scissors. Crisis averted!
Social media is full of people sharing their own stories and pet peeves about this little-known fashion rule. Some say they feel compelled to let strangers know, while others joke about carrying scissors in their handbags just in case.
And if you’ve got a mum or a friend who’s a stickler for detail, chances are they’ve already unpicked yours for you.
So, next time you buy a new coat (or blazer, or skirt), take a moment to check for any temporary stitches. It’s a small step that makes a big difference to how your clothes look and feel.
Have you ever been caught out by the stay stitch? Or do you have your own fashion pet peeve that you wish more people knew about?
Share your stories and tips in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you! And if you spot someone with their vent stitch still in place, maybe give them a friendly heads-up. After all, we’re all in this together—and everyone deserves to look their best this winter.
Also read: Winter hazards every pet owner should watch for—are you prepared?
