In Canada, a warm winter coat is essential, but many toasty options can leave you feeling like a marshmallow. We share our tips on how to choose a chic winter coat that will flatter your figure.
Busty
When you’re busty, finding a coat that accommodates your bust while highlighting your waistline can seem like an overwhelming process. Opt for a coat that hits about mid-thigh, as a longer coat will help to balance your bust, creating an hourglass silhouette. A single-breasted coat will help eliminate pulling at the bust and won’t add extra weight to the area, and a V-neck style will offer a better fit. Avoid any extras at the bust area, such as lapels or pockets.
Perfect for daytime wear, this Betsey Johnson skirted down-and-feather coat (nordstrom.com, $152) has minimal details up top and a full skirt to balance your figure. For nighttime, this Jessica Melton wool-blend jacket (sears.ca, $160) — a longer coat with one row of buttons and a simple collar that doesn’t add bulk across the bust — is a great choice.
Pear shape
The goal for a pear-shaped figure is to draw the eye upward and bring focus to the neckline and to the narrowest part of your waist. To do this, look for a tailored coat that is cinched at the waist. A belted coat will also help to further accentuate your waistline, and a coat that hits around your upper leg will avoid having extra fabric that draws attention to your hips. Women with pear shapes look great in coats with details that draw the eye upward, such as ruffles and lapels.
A good choice for daytime, this Victoria’s Secret quilted faux-fur trim puffer (victoriassecret.com, $168) has a belt to highlight your waist and a faux-fur hood to draw the eye upward. For nighttime, this Laura double-breasted wool-blend coat (laura.ca, $200) has a flattering A-line shape that hits mid-thigh and a tapered placket to balance your figure.
Apple shape
If you have an apple shape, opt for a tailored A-line coat that flows over your midsection and creates an hourglass silhouette. A coat made with thinner material will avoid adding bulk to your body, and a coat with simpler details will avoid adding weight to your look.
For daytime, this simple, tailored, DKNY quilted motorcycle coat (thebay.com, $185) is a winner, as its quilted fabric will maintain a slim silhouette while keeping you warm. A great choice for nighttime, this grey fit-and-flare bow coat from Gap (bananarepublic.gapcanada.ca, $310) has a flattering A-line cut and highlights the waist with a unique bow-detailed belt.
Petite
Petite women should opt for a tailored coat to help add shape and structure, making belted coats and peacoats good options. To avoid looking smaller in your coat, choose one that hits at or just above the knee. A coat with elongating details, such as vertical stitching and long rows of buttons, will make you look taller.
For daytime wear, Old Navy’s cropped peacoat (oldnavy.gapcanada.ca, $36) is tailored and has rows of buttons to elongate your figure. For nighttime, Tommy Hilfiger’s colour block trench (tommy.com, $199) is a flattering coat that hits just below the knee and has strategic colour blocking to help you look taller.
More on winter fashion
The dos and don’ts of dressing for a Canadian winter
Winter accessories you can’t be without
Stylish winter accessories
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