Shine OnHow to choose the right coat for your body type
Unless you’re one of the lucky Canadians experiencing temperatures above zero (come on B.C., send some of that warmth our way!), you’re probably relying on a hefty winter coat to keep you warm.
A great coat is an essential winter staple and is really the only thing keeping us from succumbing to winter’s death grip. Given how much time we spend bundled up, it’s important to find the right coat for you, both in terms of style and proportion.
Whether you’re curvy, busty or tall and slim, there’s a coat out there to suit your style and sensibilities. At the end of the day, finding your personal style is about experimenting, but it’s also helpful to know what cuts and silhouettes flatter your body. Even if you don’t fall exactly into any of these categories, these helpful style hints should steer you in the right direction.
If you are…
Curvy
If you have a Kim Kardashian-esque body, you’ll look great in fitted coats with waist-accentuating details like a belt or peplum that flares out. This will create a super slimming affect. But be careful to choose a coat that’s fairly simple, avoiding too many distracting frills that can take away from your amazing shape. A single-breasted coat also works well for you.
MACKAGE Hattie Black Light Wool Jacket with Belt, $750
Petite
If you’re slim and on the shorter side, the hem of your coat should hit around the hip bone – and shouldn’t go any longer than the knee, so you don’t get swallowed up. A double-breasted pea coat or puffer would suit your proportions perfectly.
SOIA & KYO Delphie Grey Down Coat, $520
Athletic
A straighter body is easy to flatter with just a few style tricks. Fake curves by selecting a coat that’s fit and flare. You can also get away with a somewhat extravagant fur collar or large lapels. A playful funnel neck could also help accentuate your figure.
Ted Baker Laureol Flared Skirt Coat, $745
Plus size
If you’re plus sized, the best coat for you is one that’s fitted and tailored to perfection – don’t be afraid to show off your curves. Big collars also work well on you, drawing attention to your face.
Pear-shaped
You have narrower shoulders and slightly wider hips. For you, a waist-length coat is ideal. You can afford to wear something with more details around the top half (such as wide lapels) to draw attention upwards, but keep the bottom half fuss free. An oversized coat that’s a little boxy is a great shape to balance out your body.
Club Monaco Matalin Coat, $549
Busty
Busty girl, you’re blessed with something a lot of girls would kill for. However, there’s a right way to accentuate your assets – and sometimes it involves minimizing them so your proportions are balanced. If you’re busty, try to avoid coats with a frilly or busy top. Opt for something fitted or even a bit boxy. V-necks are also universally flattering on women with larger busts, and that goes for coats too.
Wilfred Cocoon Wool Coat, $325
Apple-shaped
An apple shaped body will do well to avoid any coat that hits right at the waist. Your ideal coat is ¾ length with a slight flare. A deep V-neck is flattering on you, but avoid busy details like a furry collar that will only add volume up top.
Calvin Klein Wool Blend Clip Walker Coat, $350
Strong shoulders
If your shoulders are on the broad side, you want to avoid busy necklines, so opt for something simple like a crew neck or inverted lapel. It’s okay to have details on the lower half, as it will draw attention away from your shoulders.
