You pay plenty of attention to your fall wardrobe, but when the temperatures plunge, it’s your coat that often takes center stage. We’ve rounded up styles for both casual and dressy occasions that will complement your figure—and keep you warm—no matter what your body shape may be. It’s time to take cover.
1CIRCLE
When you carry weight around your middle, the trick is to opt for styles that give your waist some room while still keeping a sleek silhouette. A swingy cape paired with skinny jeans to show off your thin legs is a winner, while a strategically placed belt can help nip you in at your narrowest.
2Casual coat
What’s not to love about a cape? Wear one to the football game with jeans, wear it to work with dress pants or toss it on over a dress for an easy, breezy evening look. We love the three-quarter sleeves, rounded collar and pockets on this style.
3Dressy coat
You don’t have to spend mega-bucks to look totally luxe this season. Take this wool-blend coat from Narciso Rodriguez’s limited-time collection available at Kohl’s. Not only is it eye-catching in peony (it also comes in cobalt and black), but it’s brilliant for Circle shapes, as the tie-front belt can be knotted above your natural waistline, giving the illusion of a tinnier middle. Warm, chic and designer-made? Yes, please.
Narciso Rodriguez for DesigNation Wool-Blend Coat, $130, Kohls
4TRIANGLE
An A-line silhouette is always flattering when you’re smaller on top and bigger on the bottom. Look for coats that have a little flare or swing to them and, remember, belted or nipped-in waists will help show off that slim middle of yours, too.
5Casual coat
Mix a little menswear with something frilly? Don’t mind if we do. This stylish coat takes plaid wool and adds a ruffle down the middle, giving a Triangle-shaped woman her go-to outerwear for day. The embellishment draws the eye in—and away from the hips—and the easy shape allows room for a fuller bottom half. We’ll be wearing this everywhere from work to the mall to lunch with old friends.
6Dressy coat
This pleat-skirted boucle coat is so pretty we’re tempted to keep it on all night long. The faux fur collar and cuffs and metallic sheen make it stand out, while the coat’s flattering, swing-style cut is a Triangle’s BFF.
7INVERTED TRIANGLE
Show off that tapered, athletic figure you’ve worked hard for with coats that help narrow your shoulders and highlight your legs and small waist.
8Casual coat
A bright, short peacoat—like this one in Cosmo Pink—takes a classic style and pumps it full of vibrant color. Pop the collar to bring emphasis in on your pretty face. Then add leggings or slim jeans, flats, and a turtleneck and yep, you are so channeling Audrey Hepburn, girl.
9Dressy coat
Color-blocking is still a key trend. The bright citrus and subdued camel shades used in this fashion-forward style are perfectly designed for an Inverted Triangle shape. Just look how the angles work to slim your angles.
10HOURGLASS
Curvy women needn’t hide their enviable shapes under oversize coats. Celebrate what your mamma gave you by using belts that cinch your already small waist and classic—even retro—styles that give a little oomph to your outerwear.
11Casual coat
This easy, super-warm puffer coat works with your curves—not against them. The slim, belted cut keeps things sleek, not bulky, while your sexy shape is still on display. Slip this on and you’ll be heating things up this winter!
12Dressy coat
A modern take on the “Mad Men” look, this plush wool coat looks fresh with its stand-up collar, flap and seam pockets and rosy hue. Paired with your favorite pencil skirt or slacks, it’s definitely begging for a night on the town.
13RULER
When your body shape is straight up and down, you’re free to experiment with all sorts of trends, but adding a little bit of structure—be it seaming, a belt or embellishments such as toggles or big buttons—can save you from looking like your coat is swallowing you up.
14Casual coat
Ready to hit some trends this season? This fun, adorable jacket is part cape, part puffer and smartly embellished with classic toggles. The short cut means the puffy style won’t overwhelm your small frame, and it looks fab with jeans. We think we just fell in love.
Daughters of the Liberation Cape Puffer Jacket, $198, Anthropologie
15Dressy coat
Twiggy was known for her slim Ruler body and she rocked the mod look like nobody else. Now, it’s your turn. This lightweight wool coat features a slightly fitted shape to give you the illusion of curves, while still allowing plenty of room for that warm sweater underneath. Giant false eyelashes and British accent—optional.
