Simply by changing it to the new labcoat variant that can be closed/opened.
Still created a proper definition for the old lab coat, /obj/item/clothing/suit/storage/labcoat, as it's inherited by custom gear.
This includes labcoats, IA jackets, first responder jackets, and the brown leather jackets.
This way, code for button toggling doesn't have to be duplicated for labcoats and other coats, and it's easier to add other types of coats that can be buttoned up if someone wants.