Figure fixing coats
If there’s one big buy you’ll never regret, it’s the perfect winter coat. But this is no mean feat. Coats can add inches or bring out your best bits, so know what you’re looking for before you invest.
I’m petite
Coats can drown petite figure, so shorter swingy cuts like capes work better than puffy parkas, or long sweeping silhouettes. On the plus side, you can pull off sweet details like Peter Pan collars and big buttons, that start to look odd on bigger bodies. It’s really worth checking out petite ranges, as the sleeves will be the right length, the shoulders will be the perfect width and the hem will fall where it’s meant to. Try the petites range on asos.com, for women 5’3 and under – it’s surprisingly grown up and pleasantly affordable. Zara, with its tiny Euro sizing, is also a safe bet if you’re a skinny Minnie.
I’m tall
Be happy – you have the widest choice of coats out there. That said if you’re very willowy you may find the sleeves on high street coats annoyingly short, and a lot of current styles too girly for you. Military coats or belted trenches are a brilliant option if you’re tall, you have the height to carry them off and they come back every season. Try Hobbs, Reiss or Whistles – their cuts seem to suit tall bodies and they all excel at classic tailoring. Gap and Banana Republic are worth checking out too, as US labels are usually cut to a taller, broader physique.
[See also: 20 coats for autumn/winter 2011]
I have big boobs
Bosoms can be bothersome when choosing a coat. While you may want to emphasize an hourglass physique be careful with belted styles as the fabric tends to bunch up above, making your chest look bigger and your torso look shorter. Longer, fitted shapes are usually more flattering than a boxy cut or a cape and avoid big lapels and pockets on the chest. Bravissimo, better known for their underwear, have a few good coats if you need inspiration.
I’m pregnant
If you’re having a summer baby, you’re going to need a maternity coat. Like all maternity wear, the options are frustratingly narrow and expensive. If capes are to your taste anyway, you’re in luck, as this a cape is the perfect cosy bump solution. If not, have a look at the parkas and wool coats on Yummy Mummy Maternity. Or, if you’re hoping to have a big family, splash out on the Belle Coat at Tiffany Rose (£219).
I really feel the cold
We hear you. By December, you’d rather look frumpy than frozen. Enter Uni Qlo. For the first time, someone has made coats that are fit to be seen in, in sub zero climates. Their ‘down’ range feels like you’re cocooned in a duvet, but because it’s so heat-efficient the padding is ultra light and the cuts are super fitted. You’ll buy it for emergencies, and find yourself wearing it every day.
Tweet us @YLifestyleUK
