How To Know When Your Oversized Coat Is TOO Big (2024)

Vogue and HuffPost Style have teamed up for an exclusive series, giving you fresh behind-the-scenes takes straight from Vogue editors based on their weekly video series "From the Vogue Closet."

In the market for a new coat this winter? We're loving an oversized coat, one with a dramatic menswear feel that wraps us up cozily. Luckily, Vogue.com Beauty Director Catherine Piercy agrees with us, showing off her luxe Rag & Bone topper in the "Statement Coat" episode of "From the Vogue Closet."

But nailing the proportions of a bold statement coat is key, Piercy tells HuffPost Style. "If you look in the mirror and have to ask yourself whether you look great or ridiculous, your coat is probably too big. One oversized element -- like a bit of slouch in the body or a big collar -- works well. But if the sleeves are enormous, too, you can start to look like a child playing dress up," she said. "I think it's a mathematical formula to some extent."

But, Piercy assures us, there's no reason not to go crazy with trends. "As long as you're wearing the coat, not the other way around, anything goes," she says (even those wild gorilla sleeves or a crazy print).

And when in doubt? Take some cinematic inspiration. When we asked Piercy to name the best coat in history, she had to call out a famous onscreen moment: Margot Tennenbaum's fur coat in "The Royal Tennenbaums." "Awkward! Perfect! Looks even better with a flat!"

You had us at "flat." Watch the episode above and see more style "From the Vogue Closet" videos at Vogue.com. Shop for oversized coats with Vogue here.

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Want to make a statement? We're loving camel, gray and pink:

How To Know When Your Oversized Coat Is TOO Big (1)

Winter Coats That Are NOT Black

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How To Know When Your Oversized Coat Is TOO Big (2024)

FAQs

How To Know When Your Oversized Coat Is TOO Big? ›

Look for a gap at the collar. If you see a collar gap between the coat and your shirt underneath, your collar needs resizing. Look for divots at the shoulder. If you see an indent right at the top of your shoulder hole where your arms start, the coat is too big.

How do you know if an oversized coat is too big? ›

Stand in front of a mirror and look for signs that the fit isn't right. If the sleeves don't cover your wrists and the bottom of the coat rides up — like the image on the left — the coat is too small. If the sleeves go down past your thumb, and the shoulders are much wider than your shoulders, the coat is too big.

How big should an oversized coat be? ›

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.

Do I size down oversized coat? ›

Buy it in your usual size. The word “oversized” means that the cut is just that, oversized. This is deliberate and meant to fit loosely. If you go down a size, it will still fit but will not have the intended, loose look.

How do you fit an oversized jacket? ›

Wear an Oversized Jacket Alone

So, instead of layering with multiple pieces underneath, just wear your oversized jacket as your one and only top! Have a go with a cute look of buttoning up an oversized denim jacket all the way to your neck. Take the layering out of the equation for a simple, oversized look.

Is it okay to wear oversized winter jacket? ›

You can opt for a padded or winter oversize jacket, made with warm materials like down or wool, which will keep you warm without sacrificing style. Paired with a thick sweater, jeans, and boots, the oversize jacket creates a cozy and trendy look, perfect for the coldest days.

What is an oversized coat called? ›

A maxi coat is a coat that is oversized and extra long. It usually reaches the wearer's ankles, though it can be as short as mid-calf. Maxi coats are offered in almost all styles of coats. Trench, puffer, military, and fur coats are all available in maxi styles.

Do coats look better oversized? ›

I love the look of oversized anything, let's be honest, but I think this trend makes any outfit instantly chic. I also love that you don't feel constricted and have the ability to bulk up the layers if needed. Read a few tips when shopping for an oversized coat and click here for the one I'm wearing.

Are oversized coats still in fashion? ›

However, we continue to see a strong uptick every winter - most probably because oversized jackets are comfy, cosy, and stylish, all at the same time.

Should I go one size up for oversized? ›

Go two sizes up from your usual size - Stylists recommend buying a shirt two sizes larger than your typical size while shopping for oversized apparel. Your shirt should fit loosely over your waist and shoulders and be a few inches longer than a standard shirt.

Should coats be baggy? ›

The final step is getting the body of your overcoat sized correctly. Remember - you need to size the body according to what you'll wear under the coat. Your overcoat should never feel like it's suffocating you. Even if you prefer a tighter fit on your clothes, the overcoat should drape comfortably over your body.

Is it better for a jacket to be too big or too small? ›

Bigger Isn't Always Better

A winter coat fit shouldn't be too roomy, or it won't insulate as efficiently as a coat that fits just right.

How big should a jacket be on you? ›

How to Choose Your Jacket Size. If you're used to buying tailored clothing from US retailers, you'll know that your suit jacket size should roughly translate to your chest circumference as measured in inches. For a slimmer fit, choose a jacket size ~1″ smaller than your (body measurement) chest circumference.

Can you alter a coat to make it smaller? ›

Most outerwear can have alterations performed. However, there are some exceptions. Any jacket or coat with a down-filled interior (puffers, ski jackets, or parkas) is very difficult to alter. However, this type of outerwear can have repairs completed on its exterior (buttons, zippers, and lining).

Can a coat be too oversized? ›

"If you look in the mirror and have to ask yourself whether you look great or ridiculous, your coat is probably too big. One oversized element -- like a bit of slouch in the body or a big collar -- works well. But if the sleeves are enormous, too, you can start to look like a child playing dress up," she said.

Should I size down for oversized blazer? ›

In terms of sizing you need to keep the specific blazer in mind. Each blazer is different so you should read the measurements and comments from other shoppers. I personally always size down one size in anything that is labeled oversized or relaxed. Doing this lets me have an oversized look, but slightly fitted.

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