Speaking from my personal wardrobe experience, I don't know when the last time I acquired a coat that wasn't nice and loose was. And the more fitted coats I've owned in the past never got much wear, as getting them on over a sweater isn't particularly comfortable. So loose coats it is for me, and luckily, that's the trend when it comes to outerwear—and has been for several seasons.Given the popularity of oversize coats, I think it's worth discussing how to style them.
As with anything oversize, it can have the tendency to look sloppy. If that's not what you're going for but you want to wear a big coat, there are several easy tricks to keep your outfits looking polished, elegant, and sophisticated (the trending aesthetic this season).
Keep reading for all the ways to style your favorite oversize coats, with a little help from some of Instagram's most stylish.
Belt It
Belting your coat to create a cinched-waist silhouette is perhaps the simplest trick of them all, but it's also one of the most effective.
Shop a belted coat:
COS
Belted Double-Faced Wool Coat
Wear Pointed-Toe Shoes
Pointed-toe shoes are incredibly sleek and polished, and their sharpness rubs off on the entire outfit. Case in point with this colorful look worn by Emili Sindlev.
Shop pointed-toe shoes:
Jeffrey Campbell
Persona Slingback Pumps
Prada
Bunny Flora Pointed Toe Pumps
Keep It Simple
A simple, minimalist outfit that lets the coat take center stage is a timeless, no-fail styling trick. Here, an oversize coat is worn with nothing but jeans, a white T-shirt, and slingback flats, and it's perfect. No notes.
Wearing a monochromatic outfit is an easy way to look put-together. This allows you to wear whatever coat color (or print) you choose, as the rest of the outfit isn't busy in the least.
Shop a monochromatic outfit:
Reformation
Elora Knit Two Piece
Reformation
Bethany Ballet Flats
Wear a Belt
If your coat doesn't have a belt (see tip number one), leave it open and wear a belt underneath. Trust me—it's hard to look sloppy with a belt on.
Shop belts:
Ganni
Double Eyelet Belt
Toteme
Leather Belt
Bottega Veneta
Leather Belt
Pair Polished Flats With Cropped Pants
Baggy pants paired with an oversize coat is a very cool-girl look, but it's also a bit sloppy. Instead, show a bit of ankle with a pair of slightly cropped pants.
Pair an oversized coat for women with equally oversized jeans or dress pants. You'll be giving, not absolutely serving, a street fashion-forward outfit. Prefer a more sophisticated look? Try fitted pants or skirts to create contrast and dimension.
I would typically recommend pairing an oversized piece with something more fitted, like slim cut pants and a fitted top. The contrast between a fitted outfit underneath an oversized jacket is the most foolproof way to style looser pieces!
Cocoon coats are probably the best option, but an a-line coat is also great for making the waist appear slimmer. For a sportier feel consider a lined bomber jacket.
Run the washing machine on the hottest water setting and longest cycle time. You do not need to use detergent to shrink your jacket. Just run the washing machine with plain water. Polyester generally takes more exposure to heat to shrink, whereas cotton can shrink after just one wash cycle.
It's perfect for creating fashionable layering, allowing you to play with different styles and create unique outfits. From the office to nightlife, the oversized coat will always be a winning choice.
If raising up your hands causes the front of the jacket to billow out, it's probably too big. Pay attention to the fit around your shoulders when your arms are raised.
A belted coat offers a flattering, cinched-in waist, and the option of a faux fur piece is an easy way to mix up the classic belted-trench style. Tailored jackets can help build structure into a look, while coats that flare at the waist or lower hem are an ideal shape for those whose hips run slightly larger.
Since the top of your outfit is so loose and flowy, slim-fitting bottoms such as skinny jeans or leggings help to keep the outfit in proportion and add structure.
Opt for a jacket that's 1 size larger than your shirt size.
This is the general advice for buying a jacket so that it won't be too tight. Having the jacket a little bigger than your normal size will also help to ensure that you can easily layer it over other items.
If in doubt try to test out two sizes if possible. You might need to size up to get a true oversized fit, but that isn't always the case, so if possible try on your usual size and the size above to achieve your desired fit.
Especially if your coat is a contrasting color, wearing all-black underneath will create a seamless and thus slimming look everywhere from your cuffs to your legs.
One of the best ways to avoid drawing attention to your belly? Avoid clingy fabrics and go for ones that give your body space to breathe. Opt for A-line dresses or empire waistline dresses that glide over the tummy, like this green animal wrap dress.
Black never fails to make you look slim and elegant. Darker shades of colors like blue, purple and brown can also help to hide flaws and create a slimming illusion. On the other hand, lighter colors, like white and khaki, can add pounds and give the illusion of a larger frame.
Embrace differing textures and match an oversized cord jacket with leggings to offset the relaxed top half. Wear it with a long-sleeve body or blouse. For an understated and classic look, wear a boxy crop or boyfriend tee with either matching or contrasting fitted cord bottoms.
If you're struggling to raise your arms, it's a definite sign that the coat is too small. If you can manage a hug, but your movement feels restricted around your shoulders or elbows, then you might want to try the next size up. Remember that different jackets will fit differently.
Yet, amidst the flurry of fleeting fads, there exists a timeless wardrobe staple that continues to reign supreme: the oversized jacket. From runways to street style, this fashion favorite has transcended generations and trends, earning its place as a must-have item in every wardrobe.
The versatility, stylishness, and ability to cater to a variety of fashion preferences make the oversized coat a timeless go-to style for the couture world.
A well-chosen coat must neither be too short nor too long. The coat length should be based on the size of the body. A good guide is the rule that the hem should preferably end a hand's breath above the knee. This length has a visually elongating effect.
Check shoulder seams: Your shoulder seams should sit at your shoulders. If they stretch halfway down your bicep, the coat is too big. The hug test: Wear the jacket and give yourself a big hug, reaching as far around your body as possible.
You might need to size up to get a true oversized fit, but that isn't always the case, so if possible try on your usual size and the size above to achieve your desired fit. Make sure you can layer.
When styling a really big puffy coat, you want to balance the volume out. Instead of wearing big wide leg jeans with this large coat, I went with skinnies. Would also be great with a faux leather legging too. Add either a sneaker or chunky boot to balance the bottom part out so you don't look entirely top heavy.
Introduction: My name is Dan Stracke, I am a homely, gleaming, glamorous, inquisitive, homely, gorgeous, light person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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