In cold weather, women rely more on outerwear to make a fashion statement. And although few women look like actress Marie Cotillard in a coat (pictured here) whatever your shape, there’s a style that will flatter you most. Also keep in mind that you may need more than one coat for the season. For example, if you’re wearing a dress and have exposed legs, a longer coat will keep you warmer. The same long coat, however, can look bulky with a heavy sweater and jeans.
Peacoat
Actress Gina Gershon sports a winter favorite here: the peacoat. “A peacoat flatters most full-figured and pear-shaped ladies,” said Jess Zaino, style producer for ABC’s “The Chew” and founder of Cheap Chic Shopping Tours. “They give structure to the shoulders and balance a thick waist and big hips.”
Trench
The classic trench, worn here by actress Dianna Agron, flatters all body shapes. “The sexy, fitted belt at the waist accentuates a super feminine, hourglass figure,” said Zaino. “If you’re petite, look for a hemline that hits above the knee to avoid looking smaller.”
Parka
Actress Ariel Winter looks trendy in this puffy blue parka. While it works on many shapes, note that the volume does add width to your frame. “Avoid a loose fit, which will leave you looking shapeless,” Zaino said. She also said that long parkas look best on taller women, so keep it cropped if you’re petite.
Cropped Fur Coat
“A cropped fur is so very Hollywood,” said Zaino, but she noted that it can be tricky to pull off for some sizes. Model Jessica White, who is tall and slim, wears it well. “Make sure the sleeves fit [so] as not to look childish and that the hemline hits at or above the waist to show off curves instead of hiding them.”
Cape Coat
Italian TV personality Miriam Leone is seen here wearing a vintage-inspired white cape. “Capes work on slight and curvy frames, petite and tall women, and will work even if you are between sizes,” said Zaino. She added that it’s an especially appropriate coat during transitional weather and works well as a layering piece.
Bracelet Sleeve
Notice how the sleeves on this coat stop at the elbow and show off what TV personality Kris Jenner is wearing underneath, hence the name “bracelet sleeve.” This coat is ideal for layering and perfect for climates that aren’t especially cold. Because of the extra volume, it looks best on tall and narrow frames.
Cropped Coat
“A short tweed style is the ultimate statement in luxury style,” noted Zaino. This type of light coat looks best on an athletic frame, like actress Maria Bello’s. Zaino suggested pairing it with chic heels and pearls for a sophisticated cold-weather ensemble.
Wrap Coat
“Like Diane von Furstenberg’s iconic wrap dress, the wrap coat is universally flattering on all body types and sizes,” said Zaino. Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, looks polished, and her waist is accentuated. “The diagonal line formed by the classic coat’s closure slims and trims, while the belt at the waist gives a woman an ultra-feminine silhouette.”