The Most Flattering Coat for Your Body

It’s the same old winter-wear dilemma—do you look great or avoid frostbite? Here’s how to find a coat (a warm one!) that works for your curves.

IF YOU’RE PEAR-SHAPED

DO: A longer, double-breasted jacket is most flattering. The double-breasted style balances body top and bottom; the straight cut hides hips—smart.

IF YOU’RE PETITE

DO: Smaller than 5'4"? Stick to shorter, fitted jackets and coats—the waist-skimming length will elongate legs and keep you from drowning in your outerwear. If you want to go longer (which you might if you’re bottom-heavy), keep it to an inch above the knee in a tailored shape.

IF YOU’RE BIG-BUSTED

DO: It should never look like you struggled to button your coat—that means no pulling or gaping even with the thickest sweater underneath. Stick with single-breasted styles—the bulkiness of double-breasteds adds to your bust—and a longer length to elongate torso.

DON’T:
Overstretch a coat to fit your body.
Think you must go puffy to be warm.
Do shapeless.

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