Winter is traditionally the time to invest in a warm coat, one that will tick all the boxes in terms of style, versatility and practicality.
A statement coat is the one key investment a woman should make for fall winter. It should represent her personality and flatter her figure — no matter whether it’s tall, curvy, petite,big-bellied, pear-shaped, big busted or boyish.
Think cut, color, collar, fabric and print. This wardrobe staple needs to transcend seasons and make the most of a woman’s body shape.
Coats for Tall Women
Lucky women who are long and lean should choose a coat which adds volume. Tall, slim figures can carry off a shapeless style in bold prints such as tartan or houndstooth check. High collars and necklines serve to flatter a long silhouette and textured fabrics such as fur will add bulk. To create more curves, a belted waist will give the illusion of an hour-glass figure. Single-breasted or double-breasted, this is one body shape that can wear oversized styles with aplomb. This is the only body shape which can truly compliment a long-length coat. A classic double-breasted trench with lots of epaulettes, buttons, buckles and pockets has all the class and detailing to create volume and this fall winter’s (2009) cocoon style coats are particularly flattering on tall women.
As height is not an issue, a boxy-style jackets will add depth, as long as it is not too baggy. Tailored jackets with seaming at the chest or waist will serve to add some curves. Pockets will add volume and depth.
Coats for Curvy Women
Women with curvy, hour glass figures look best in low-necked single breasted 1 or 2 button styles. A coat which cinches the waist is especially flattering as it highlights those curves, rather than hide them. A-line cuts will skim a figure in all the right places, avoiding any unsightly lumps and bumps. Belted styles define curves even further, with wide belts emphasizing waists. In contrast, this season’s trend in structured shoulders will help define a sharp silhouette, and balance out the body.
Jackets should be shaped and allow plenty of chest and collar bone on display. Hemlines should finish just below the stomach area, sitting just above the hips. Fitted, waistband detailing will flatter curves rather than swamp them in loose fitting shapes.
Coats for Petite Women
Petite women can carry off bold bright colors and look great in short structured jackets, with the hemline finishing at the top of the hip. Go for styles which are tailored and short to keep shape in proportion. Fall winter’s trendy short cape styles will highlight the waist and add a sense of quirky style. Avoid boxy double-breasted jackets will broaden and shorten a tiny frame, so will puffy padded jackets and coats.
When it comes to coats, a vibrant color block will give the impression of a longer body. Baggy shapeless styles are best avoided to minimize that swamp factor. Sophisticated, slimline, single-breasted and straight is the order of the day. Avoid long-length coats, one that finishes just above or on-the-knee will stretch out the silhouette.
A cut which highlights the waist and creates a slightly higher waistline than the natural one (the outerwear equivalent of an empire line dress) will serve to lengthen legs. A vertically striped print (such as pinstripe) will also elongate the body.
Investing in a stylish coat that really flatters the body shape can make a serious style statement. A great coat can add glamor in an instant, even if underneath, an outfit is less than perfect.
Gill Hart - Gill Hart is a fashion and image professional who specializes in women's fashion over 50.
