Everybody needs a coat to fight the winter cold. But what colour, fabric, shape or length? We chat to a London stylist for the latest tips...
Picking your winter coat needn't be a problem. You will be looking for a combination of warmth, style and the best shape for your body type, so we bring you some tips from a London fashion stylist to ensure that your coat ticks all the right boxes.The right shape for you...
We all come in different shapes and sizes, so here are some general rules to adhere to in relation to your bodyshape...1. Bigger Bust:
If you have a bigger bust, the last thing you want to do is to overstretch the front of the coat, so ensure that it fits you well and that it is single breasted to avoid too much fabric on your chest area. When shopping for your coats wear a jumper so that you don't find yourself with a tight fitted coat in the height of the winter season.2. Pear Shape:
If you are curvy, you want to find a coat which will be structured and create a silhouette. A double breasted coat is ideal, as it is both shaped and tasteful – why not try a fashionable military style coat? It will provide a good structure. Another good choice of coat is a belted one. It will give you a waist and minimise the bum and thigh area.3. Petite:
If you are on the petite side, you want a good fit above all. Double breasted coats may be a little too heavy depending on the size of the lapels. Remember that it is always a good idea to invest in getting it altered to ensure it fits you like a glove. And go for a short or ¾ length style to avoid drowning in it, and you will seem taller and lighter.Going to Any Lengths...
Length is crucial when buying a coat. If you are going to be wearing it with dresses (or skirts), remember to go shopping wearing them because the coat should always be slightly longer than your outfit. In terms of your own height, the taller you are the longer your coat should be. If you are not very tall, however, a long coat can still look fabulous if worn with high heels. And if you are shorter remember that a ¾ style will give you the added leg length you require."Length is always proportional to the person's height and upper and lower body ratio. Whilst a long coat can look very elegant, it is always advisable to see some leg," says stylist, Mossom.
Colour, Pattern and Fabric
If you are lucky enough to be able to invest in more than one coat this season, go for contrast. A classic cut in a dark staple colour such as navy, grey or black is always a great investment, but there are some fabulous colours in coats this season – including bright pinks, lemon yellows and purples – and great patterns such as checks and even animal prints if you're feeling bold!Once you have invested in your classic staple coat why not go for something fun, which can look fantastic worn with black leggings and boots. Other fun detailing found in coats and worth looking into for that second alternative are hoods, funnel necks and (sometimes detachable) faux-fur collars and cuffs.
According to Mossom: "We are living in a very exciting time where great coats are no longer expensive and are accessible to all, resulting in the option of having more than one coat. Take some time to look around and have fun discovering the latest styles."
Material
Coats are made of various materials ranging from cashmere, wool and synthetic mixes. The quality of the material will undoubtedly be reflected in the price so choose wisely before investing in an expensive garment – and ensure the fit is right for you.Everybody needs a coat to fight the winter cold. But what colour, fabric, shape or length? We chat to a London stylist for the latest tips...
Picking your winter coat needn't be a problem. You will be looking for a combination of warmth, style and the best shape for your body type, so we bring you some tips from a London fashion stylist to ensure that your coat ticks all the right boxes.The right shape for you...
We all come in different shapes and sizes, so here are some general rules to adhere to in relation to your bodyshape...1. Bigger Bust:
If you have a bigger bust, the last thing you want to do is to overstretch the front of the coat, so ensure that it fits you well and that it is single breasted to avoid too much fabric on your chest area. When shopping for your coats wear a jumper so that you don't find yourself with a tight fitted coat in the height of the winter season.2. Pear Shape:
If you are curvy, you want to find a coat which will be structured and create a silhouette. A double breasted coat is ideal, as it is both shaped and tasteful – why not try a fashionable military style coat? It will provide a good structure. Another good choice of coat is a belted one. It will give you a waist and minimise the bum and thigh area.3. Petite:
If you are on the petite side, you want a good fit above all. Double breasted coats may be a little too heavy depending on the size of the lapels. Remember that it is always a good idea to invest in getting it altered to ensure it fits you like a glove. And go for a short or ¾ length style to avoid drowning in it, and you will seem taller and lighter.Going to Any Lengths...
Length is crucial when buying a coat. If you are going to be wearing it with dresses (or skirts), remember to go shopping wearing them because the coat should always be slightly longer than your outfit. In terms of your own height, the taller you are the longer your coat should be. If you are not very tall, however, a long coat can still look fabulous if worn with high heels. And if you are shorter remember that a ¾ style will give you the added leg length you require."Length is always proportional to the person's height and upper and lower body ratio. Whilst a long coat can look very elegant, it is always advisable to see some leg," says stylist, Mossom.
Colour, Pattern and Fabric
If you are lucky enough to be able to invest in more than one coat this season, go for contrast. A classic cut in a dark staple colour such as navy, grey or black is always a great investment, but there are some fabulous colours in coats this season – including bright pinks, lemon yellows and purples – and great patterns such as checks and even animal prints if you're feeling bold!Once you have invested in your classic staple coat why not go for something fun, which can look fantastic worn with black leggings and boots. Other fun detailing found in coats and worth looking into for that second alternative are hoods, funnel necks and (sometimes detachable) faux-fur collars and cuffs.
According to Mossom: "We are living in a very exciting time where great coats are no longer expensive and are accessible to all, resulting in the option of having more than one coat. Take some time to look around and have fun discovering the latest styles."
