How long should winter coats be?
The hem should hit right where your thumb and index finger meet so it covers your wrist completely and the bottom 1/4 of your hand. This length will help to ensure that your hands stay warm. Avoid jackets that have a shorter hemline than this.
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.
Generally, when you're looking for outerwear, the rule is to go for a size bigger. What you don't want to do though, is to go for a size that makes you look more like a pile of coats than a person wearing one. When you try on your coat, make sure that you allow plenty of room for jumpers and layering.
Can a Short Woman Wear a Long Coat? : Style Tips for Every Body
Raise your arms above your head and stretch your torso to see how long it is. A jacket that rides up past your waistband is probably too short — and can leave your midsection exposed to the cold. If raising up your hands causes the front of the jacket to billow out, it's probably too big.
A 3/4 length coat (one that is just above the knee) is flattering for most average height people. If you're petite a slightly shorter (medium length)coat is often better.
Long coats or maxi coats are currently trending, and I think that life can't get any better! Why? Because long coats are the best thing to keep you warm during the cold winter days. Long coats will totally embrace you, and will surely keep you warm and toasty.
Noelle says: Does your coat have to be longer than your skirt or dress?
How to Measure for a Coat - YouTube
“We often encourage guys to size up when it comes to outerwear. If your coat is snug with a blazer or a sweater underneath, you should go for a bigger size. If the sleeves are too long, you can always get them tailored. It's worth the effort.”
Should a winter jacket fit tight?
How should your insulated jacket fit? - YouTube
Noelle says: Does your coat have to be longer than your skirt or dress?
How to tell if a winter coat is too big? Look at how much space is between you and the jacket. There should be just enough room for the layers you would normally wear underneath your coat; it should not look baggy or too loose on your body. Keep in mind that a coat that's too tight performs differently, too.
Buy a Size That Fits Your Wardrobe
If your coat is snug with a blazer or a sweater underneath, you should go for a bigger size. If the sleeves are too long, you can always get them tailored. It's worth the effort.”
With your new purchase zipped up, give yourself a hug while reaching for the shoulder blades of your opposite arms. If you feel like you're about to 'Hulk out' then it would be a good idea to try the next size up. It should feel comfortable, but not so loose that there's bunching of material.