Plus Size Coats Guide

Plus Size Coats for Your Shape & Style

Julie — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 09:00:33 +0000

Thanks to the growing demand for trendy and fashionable plus-sized clothing, a wide range of shapes and styles is available in the plus size coats market. But how do you choose the ideal style for you and your curvalicious body?

The important thing to consider when you’re plus size woman is that your coat should not hide your body, but instead fit well and flatter your shape. Despite what many traditional fashion designers seem to think, plus size fashions can be extremely trendy and flattering to a curvier shape.

There are many different plus size coat and jacket styles to choose from. The classic trench coat, with its belted waist and mid-hip length, is flattering on just about every shape – and is perfect for everything from Autumn afternoons to Spring showers. A-line or flared coats are also a great option, as they’re wider toward the bottom, allowing extra room for wider hips as well as a curvy behind.

Generally, the ideal coat will be light-weight without extra padding or design details (such as a double-breasted closure) which may add extra and unnecessary bulk. Buttons may pull across a full bosom, but a belt – which can be cinched at the smallest part of the waist – is a great addition to streamline your look and create more of an hourglass figure.

Another thing to consider when choosing plus size coats is the type of occasion that the style will be best suited for. Do you prefer jackets and outerwear that are classic and suitable for many different situations? A coat in the neutral color family – khaki, tan, or black – can easily shift from daytime to nighttime with the right accessories and accompanying outfit.

When it comes to colors, you can go simple and traditional, or take it up a notch and go bold to really highlight your personality. While basic black and darker colors can be figure-flattering, wearing a bold mauve or rich navy coat is a fun and flirty way of showing off your confidence and personal style.

Gone are the days when larger-size coats were relegated to being boxy, shapeless, and boring! Thanks to innovative fashion designers and stores such as Lane Bryant, Torrid and Avenue, there’s much more out there to choose from – and traditional department stores are finally beginning to take notice as well. Before long, the problem won’t be finding the perfect plus size coats – it will be choosing which one is your favorite!

Womens Coats for Every Size

Julie — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 06:00:58 +0000

In the plus size world, finding the best fitting and most flattering clothes is often a challenge. Most nice looking garments seem to have been designed for women who are no more than a size 6 or 8, making shopping for plus size clothes particularly challenging. This rings true as well when hunting for the plus size womens coats that will fit and flatter in all the right ways.

Many people consider womens coats to be more for function than for fashion. Probably that is often why it’s the last thing a woman thinks about when putting an outfit together for a night out in town or for a special occasion. What inevitably happens is, even though a plus sized woman may have scored the perfect outfit for a party, she may still look frumpy and unremarkable when everything she had painstakingly chosen and prepared for are concealed under her coat.

Admittedly, it may be difficult to find the smartest plus size coats for the woman with curves – but it is not impossible. Since womens coats are generally long-lasting investments and more expensive than other pieces of clothing, careful thought must be put into what type of coat to buy. Considerations on function and fashion should be at the top of the list. While we don’t want the coat to merely serve a functional purpose in the wardrobe, we do want to take into account why we are buying it or for what purpose or occasion.

But before heading out to the mall to begin picking out the perfect plus sized coat, the curvy woman must first get to know her body intimately. Which areas are the most unflattering? Which are her best features? The woman must know these in order to know what cuts to look out for in purchasing a coat.

With that in mind, the hunt begins. Choosing a plus size womens coat is not really that difficult. But it’s important to now find the coat that will accentuate the good and draw attention away from “problem areas” in her figure. This does not automatically mean going for the current rage in the fashion world. Double-breasted coats and trenches, though while popular, will only serve to widen the torso. Trenches also hide curves and the long ones emphasize a large behind, which steal away a woman’s shape and make her look round, rather than defined. Another style of plus size coats to watch out for is the funnel-neck coat. Plus size women with particularly ample bosoms, short necks, or double chins should avoid this style.

What a busty woman can go for are plus size coats that create a tight waist, while keeping the chest open. This cut elongates the neck and slims the torso. However, avoid those coats with big lapels. Structured womens coats can create a narrowing effect around the waist area and widen the hips to achieve a flattering, hourglass shape. Frock coats achieve the same delightful effect as well. While belted coats can also help achieve a narrow waistline, they are best avoided by women with a bit of tummy fat, as this can only emphasize that area, which would be better off disguised.

Other considerations in choosing a full figure coat include color. Black doesn’t have to be the only color for a plus sized woman. She can choose virtually any color she likes, as long as the cut flatters her in all the right places and, of course, keeps her warm and looking stylish. Plus size womens coats come in a wide variety of styles and shapes, so choose the one that makes you look and feel your best!

Plus Size Leather Jackets

Julie — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 20:00:43 +0000

Plus size leather jackets never seem to go out of style, no matter the season. Though they are a great addition to a full figured woman’s wardrobe, leather jackets are also functional and stylish for woman of all sizes. There is nothing that can blend with any casual or formal wear better than an expected, yet utterly stylish, leather jacket.

While there are different types of leather coats and jackets to choose from, a particularly chic style for women is one with embroidery. Embroidered plus side leather jackets (also called “embroidered leather blazers”) are very comfortable and are perfect for the spring, autumn and winter seasons. They make good tops over your casual dresses, denim pants and tee-shirts, and even your work outfits. Brightly colored and embroidered plus sized leather jackets will really make you stand out from the crowd. Accent the jacket with a scarf during cooler seasons for an extra bit of flair. This type of leather jacket is so functional that it seems impossible to have a complete working or casual wardrobe without it.

Autumn and winter clothing is also enhanced with the addition of a three-quarter length leather jacket. This style is popular among plus size leather jackets because it gives one that sculptured look, making plus size women look sexier, sleeker and stylish. There are also faux leather jackets like this available in many stores. It may be difficult however to find this type of jacket in brighter colors, but the usual conservative colors of this type of jacket do give you that classic and elegant look with a trendy touch.

There’s also the longer, blazer style leather jacket, a favorite item at many size plus retailers. This type of plus size leather jacket is usually lined, and often comes in fun colors such as deep reds and rich blues, and would certainly go well with any casual dress in your closet. Notice that this plus size blazer, aside from being lined in front, also has a tucked-back lining that helps to contour your figure.

There are also plus size leather jackets that look similar to denim jackets, except that the material is usually made from faux leather. This is also timeless because they go well with slacks and any cooler weather season. They’re great as tops and you can find them in an array of fashionable colors. They are also sometimes called leather motorcycle jackets, as they are suited for outdoor activities and have that cool, “rebel without a cause” look. As such, this is often the favorite type of plus size leather jacket for those women who love the outdoors. They can be zipped in the front, or there’s the two buttoned womens leather jacket which looks much like a blazer top. There are also plus size leather jackets that are simply lined straight for both males and females.

Leather jackets are timeless and stylish pieces for any wardrobe. And luckily, there are many retailers catering to full figured woman nowadays that offer plus size leather jackets at reasonable prices. Because they are most often worn in cooler weather months, now is the time to start looking for great deals on leather jackets that will add spice and flair to your ensembles!

Choosing a Plus Size Leather Coat

Julie — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 11:58:21 +0000

Autumn, the time of the year that welcomes in Thanksgiving and the beginning of the Christmas season, is often the first time that we bring our plus size leather coat out of storage. There are a lot of options for coats for the regular woman but for plus size women, it is a bit of a challenge to find a plus sized leather coat that won’t add the illusion of extra weight or make you look like a sack of potatoes. Some leather coats are so big that they actually seem to “swallow” anyone who would wear them!

This brought about my research online for the best leather coat for plus sized women. Here’s a list of online retailers and just a sampling of the leather coat styles they offer. I think these would be well worth a look for your autumn wardrobe!

The “Military Leather Coat” by Roamans – A plus size leather coat that looks so fashionable, you’re liable to wear it as often as you can! It has detailed buttons and it also fits and flatters in just the right places. This leather jacket will not make you look bigger as it flatters your shape rather than emphasizing it negatively. It would be best worn with your favorite jeans and boots but it would also work with skirts and office wear.

The Tucked Back Womens Plus Size Leather Jacket by Veranesi – This leather coat offers good weather protection while making you look fashionable at the same time. It has an A-line silhouette giving you that curvy look that’s flattering for all shapes and sizes. What’s lovely about this coat are the back tucks that form soft pleats at the bottom, giving you that slimming look and the comfort that you need.

Veranesi’s Leather Motorcross Jacket – A sporty plus size leather coat perfect for running errands. The highlight would be its mandarin collar as well as the pleated detailing, offering a slimmer silhouette.

The Leather Swing Coat by Veranesi – I think this coat would be perfect for layering. It would work with lots of different outfits, as it is designed to be an outer jacket. It has shawl type collar giving it that casual flair. The perfect plus size coat for autumn.

Izod Womens Plus Size Contrast Stitch Scuba Coat – You’ll just love the buttery feel of this plus size leather coat! It is made out of lambskin and contours to the curves that you would like to enhance, and would be the perfect compliment for jeans or denim skirts.

Plus Size Black Leather Jacket by Izod – I love belted plus size coats, and this one is ultra chic in black leather, adding elegance to your outerwear. It is also made from lambskin giving you that soft, rich, buttery feeling.

Faux Fur Trimmed Leather Jacket by Via Accenti – This plus sized leather coat has a detachable faux fur trim collar. An ultra trendy, stylish look for every full figured fashionista!

Jessica London’s Plus Size Leather Jackets – Offered in different styles and playful colors that would add life and spice to your usual plus size leather coats. Instead of going for plain black or brown, Jessica London offers her leather outerwear in rose, dark turquoise and deep grape. Stylish!

Still need more options? Just try Googling plus size leather coats and you would be amazed at all the different options and styles out there. They’re well worth the investment for a timeless, classic look that will always be in style!

Plus Size Raincoat Styles

Julie — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 06:44:11 +0000

A plus size raincoat isn’t just for protecting your body from the rain. These raincoats also make you feel warm during the cooler seasons and are a great option for those who wish to look a bit slimmer, since raincoats have a symmetrical cut design which does not emphasize your figure problems. In fact, most rain coats are useful for hiding that rounder tummy or the few extra inches in your waistline.

A fabulous plus size raincoat should definitely be part of your wardrobe. It accents your whole outfit and makes you look more chic and stylish even if you’re wearing something casual underneath it, such as an office appropriate dress or denim jeans and a t-shirt. When you wear your raincoat, that’s all that people really see, after all. So choosing one with style and a flattering shape will make all the difference!

For those with extra pounds, well-made plus size raincoats make sure that while your body is protected from the weather, your body is contoured to look sleek and slimmer. Some people take raincoats for granted, thinking that they only serve the purpose of protecting them from the rain. Sure, a raincoat is destined to be one of the most functional plus size coats in your wardrobe, but it also should be considered an important part of whatever attire that you’re wearing along with it. Thus, one should choose the best style that suits one’s taste and preference when choosing to purchase a raincoat.

There is the classic trench which is unisex. This style is ageless and has always been considered fashionable since the 1930’s. This is the type that you’ll see in those old MGM classics that usually has a rather broad collar and is more often double breasted. These days, however, there are several variations of this same style. Some have been designed with a zip-out liner for more comfort, for example, which makes them perfect for transitioning between cooler and warmer weather.

There is also the American trench raincoat which is the basic style – however, these are raincoats that have no buttons, but zippers or snaps instead. Most of them come with a matching hood, which will come in very handy if you’re ever caught in the rain without an umbrella, making them a very functional choice for your rainy weather wardrobe.

Then there is the A-line plus size raincoat, which is great for those with larger frames and is more fitted in the shoulders while providing a looser shape around the hips. This one doesn’t usually come with any belts but it is definitely comfy, comes in all colors and does not emphasize your hips – which is often a spot that plus sized women hope to minimize.

There are also reversible plus sized raincoats which now come in faux leather or water resistant fibers. Some reversible coats are both functional and creative because some brands offer two designs when you buy one raincoat – which means more fashion for your dollars!

A quality, well crafted plus size raincoat will never lose its appeal. Having two or three of them with the latest designs can do a lot to help spice up your wardrobe, no matter what the season or the weather may bring!

Plus Size Wool Coats

Julie — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 10:36:40 +0000

One of the reasons why wool coats are excellent for winter is because they are naturally water resistant. Wool fibers contain lanolin (a natural oily substance that that is secreted by a sheep’s skin) which helps the wool to be able to resist water. This kind of plus size coat can effectively keep you warm unlike many other styles.

However there are also some disadvantages to owning wool coats. For example, once wool gets wet, it can develop an undesirable odor. Washing a wool coat would cause it to become far too heavy and require a lengthy period of time to dry; this is why dry cleaning is always recommended. And when it comes to wearing wool, It can cause some irritation for those with sensitive skin, so you may need to add a sturdy lining or wear a long sleeved shirt under the coat so ensure that the wool fibers will not come into contact with your skin.

Wool coats come in different textures, from lightweight to thick. Thinner coats are meant to be worn in the spring and autumn, when the weather is mild. Anyone who is seen with these kinds of coats seems to have a kind of elegance, dignity and sophistication. Aside from that, they also work well for almost all types of figures, making them a classic style for plus size coats. Thicker wool coats, on the other hand, are meant to be worn during the cold winter months. Since they are thick, there is a tendency for the person to look bulky, so they’re generally not recommended as flattering for plus sized women. It is important that you consider the texture of the coats and the effect the material may have on your silhouette prior to purchasing.

The blazer style of wool coats are perfect for a person who conducts business or needs to be in front of dignified people. It can provide you with needed warmth while still looking professional. Some blazers also come with matching pants or skirts, so that you can wear them together.

For a much warmer option, you can try the wool pea coat. These are very thick and come in a square cut, which tends to add the illusion of extra weight. What you can try to do is try on different varieties and see which ones will fit you perfectly. Since these kinds of wool coats are bulky, it can help anyone to feel much warmer. A good tip is to wear few layers of clothes when trying on different wool coats. In this way, you will see how each coat will appear on you when you’re wearing warmer clothes.

Usually the most expensive wool coats are the ones with the highest quality wool fabric. Try to see if the coat is woven strong enough. The very important thing to remember is to buy the wool coat that best fits and flatters your body. You can also try to tailor the one you purchase, so that it will fit on you perfectly.

The perfect time for you to purchase wool coats is during the spring, during the off season. You can look for them on different retail shops, resale shops, auctions, and thrift stores. The ideal scenario is to purchase your wool coat in a retail store, where you would have the option to try them on and see what perfectly fits you. Check whether the plus size coats have flaws like missing buttons, damaged zippers or stain marks. If the problem can be easily fixed, and it will save you some money, the purchase may certainly be worth it.

Shopping online, on the other hand, will give you the chance to search from wide varieties of wool coats, at your own chosen time and within the comfort of your home. Online auctions and consignment stores give you the ability to save money will still purchasing a quality plus size coat that will keep you warm and cozy. When you decide to purchase coats online, make sure that you double check the description, sizes and have read the terms and conditions of the shop before doing the purchase. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to selecting and purchasing the perfect plus size wool coats for your wardrobe!

Plus Size Sweater Coats

Julie — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 03:00:13 +0000

The cooler weather season is finally here – and whether you’ll admit it or not, there are nice things about chillier temperatures! Two of my favorites are hot chocolate and sweater coats. If you are like me – someone who loves snuggling up in a warm sweater when the weather is cold – here are some few tips to find the perfect one for you.

One of the important things that you need to consider when choosing a sweater coat is your budget. You should also consider the warmth of the coats. The thickness of the sweater material that you need will depend upon how much time you usually spend outside your home during the winter months. If you are someone who usually takes long walks or does a lot of activities during the chillier seasons, you will want to purchase a thick sweater coat, perhaps made of wool. You also need to consider whether you will use your sweater coat for work or to simply just wear it on casual affairs.

If your budget is too tight to be able to afford more than one sweater coat, then get something traditional that you can wear around at all times, in any occasion. In your search for that perfect coat, find one that has an attractive design with high quality yarn, and perhaps even a hood to provide warmth.

You should also consider your body type when purchasing sweater coats. If you are tall, you may want to choose a knee length coats for extra length. Women with wide hips should look for tailoring and straight lines, and perhaps try choosing three quarter length. If you are short, make sure your sweater coat hits in you a flattering spot – too long will simply look frumpy. One thing that is very important though is to try on the coats that you like before purchasing one. Choose something not too bulky that can easily be zipped, buttoned or tied in a flattering way.

Most people would settle for the neutral colors just to be on the safe side, but if you are confident and like to stand out from the crowd, choose something which is rich in color like red, purple, navy, hunter green, or even a vivid pink! You can also pair a sweater coat with a leather jacket for layering, and match it with some floral or other feminine designs to have a contrast. Sweater coats with dramatic details are also very fashionable, like detailed collars, sleeves or cuffs.

Lastly, when choosing the best coats for you, it is important that you feel comfortable and cozy. The function of sweater coats are to provide both warmth and style, with extra functionality of being able to be worn both indoors and out. This is one plus size coat style I would not be without!

Flattering Plus Size Winter Coats

Julie — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 03:00:18 +0000

What better way to spend the colder seasons that being huddled comfortably in a warm, plush winter coat? But the thing is, most people think that buying a plus size winter coat can be such a pain. This is mainly due to the misconception that most winter coats are bulky, and thus designed for people under size 6. This is not true at all. In fact, there are now more choices when it comes to plus size winter coats. You only need to know what to buy. So if you are planning on expanding your wardrobe with some really nice looking coats for the upcoming colder months, here are some tips for you.

Choose plus size winter coats that have a snug fit. Faux fur coats, rain jackets, puffer jackets, trench coats and other long winter coats are not particularly flattering to the body. The fabrics used for these are often cut in long and wide patterns that that may cause the wearer look more expansive than she really is – regardless of color and fabric design. Try shorter and more streamlined winter coats instead. Some of the best styles for the plus sized body are: cropped jackets, frocked coats and pea coats. Swing coats and nautical coats are also ideal choices because these give a woman a more slender silhouette.

Shorter coats are also a great choice. If you really want to have that snug fit, choose plus size coats that have hems resting on top of the hips or higher, as with the case of most cropped jackets. But in case you want something longer, you may want to choose coat cuts that are about 2 to 3 inches above the knee at the most. Shorter coats are better suited for people who want to look both leaner and taller. There are also long winter coats with asymmetrical hems, similar to ringmaster coats, tail coats, or other couture designs. These will provide you the length you want. Just make sure though that the shorter hemlines would account to about 75% of the coat, and that these are situated mostly in front.

Choose your fabrics carefully. Aside from choosing darker colored fabrics to give you that streamlined shape, you should also consider choosing fabrics that are designed to cling more to the body. Angora, faux fur, nylon and other padded or quilted fabrics will only add bulk to your frame, giving you the illusion of being heavier. Try to choose plus size winter coats with cashmere, cotton, wool blend, or wool-cashmere blend instead. Leather and denim are also great choices for the colder seasons, but look for cuts with more lightweight materials.

A heavy coat doesn’t mean a heavier-looking body when you choose the perfect wintertime plus size coats!

Plus Size Outerwear Buying Guide

Julie — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 22:00:56 +0000

There is one major disadvantage to buying plus size coats and outerwear online. There is no way of getting the correct fitting until you have the coat delivered at your doorstep. And often times, it takes too much trouble to return one piece, not to mention the additional expenses of an exchange. Many women may be tempted to simply just make do with what they have. This does not have to be the case each and every time you order a plus size coat from online retailers. If you want to make this process a lot easier, and without all added headaches, here are some tips on how to purchase plus sized coats online.

Always check size charts. Many of the more reputable online plus size clothing stores have size listings, which states how the companies’ coats are measured and manufactured. These can give you a better estimate as to whether or not the coat will be a great fit for you. Jst because a plus size coat is designated with your size, a good fit will not be guaranteed. For example: a size 14 trench coat may be so loose and billowy, it could fit any person from size 12 to 18 easily. On the other hand, a cropped jacket of the same size may be too tight, and you may have to buy one or two sizes bigger to get the best fit. Pay special attention to chest, waist and hip dimensions in the size listings. This will take out most of the guess work on your part. Also, make sure that the online store has a return policy and an agreeable one at that – just in case.

Speaking of trench coats, you may want to re-think about buying these altogether. Trench coats, rain jackets and long winter coats have the tendency to make the body look fuller, which is something that only truly flatters those who have very slim or slender bodies to begin with. Cropped jackets are excellent since these will help shape the body into a slimmer silhouette. However, if you want something a little longer than the cropped piece, try looking into frocked coats, pea coats, or plus size suit jackets (such as blazers) instead. When fitted properly, these aforementioned plus sized coat styles will make you look leaner and taller.

Try to choose coats in dark colors as well, such as black, brown, tan, gray, and deep shades of blue, violet, and green. Avoid light colored plus size jackets and coats, or those with very loud, attention-grabbing colors. For the slimmest silhouette, you’ll also want to steer clear of oversize buttons, wide belts, very large buckles and any loud adornments too.

Even with careful studying of the details and sizing, you may receive a plus size coat that isn’t perfectly suited to your body or your tastes. As long as the retailer offers returns and exchanges (and most do), you will not be stuck with something that isn’t a great match for you. Start your online search a month or two before the colder weather months, and by the time the first frost hits, you’ll have a plus size jacket or coat that’s perfectly shaped and suited to you!

Trendy Juniors Plus Size Coats

Julie — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 10:00:23 +0000

Believe it or not, buying juniors plus size coats is not as simple as picking the first thing that fits off the rack. You do have to remember that choosing teen wear is not the same as choosing from the same style of the clothes that a more mature woman might find fashionable. Teenagers certainly have a different fashion sense. And although it may seem a bit unusual for a parent who’s footing the bill, you need to consider who these juniors plus size coats are for. Here is a guide to buying coats you know the younger ones will appreciate and wear.

Stick to the safest choices. What you think may be “cool” may not translate very well when it comes to teen fashion. You can play it safe by sticking to the classic styles, or to be more specific, choosing between leather and denim (jean) plus size coats. You can never really go wrong with these two. Vintage leather juniors plus size jackets are particularly appealing to girls with a bit of an edge, while denim coats (done in a current, trendy style) are always a good choice. Make sure though that you stay away from quilted leather coats, or those that have fur trimmings on the collar and the sleeves. These will only make the wearer look bigger than she really is.

Avoid nylon coats altogether. These may look great as windbreaker jackets, but generally only on those who are very slim to begin with. Nylon is rather billowy, and nylon coats are often made in attention-calling colors. Both of these factors combined may cause the wearer look 20 to 30 pounds heavier. Also make sure that the juniors plus size coats are plain in design or in darker colors. Try to avoid buying coats with loud appliques or large, colorful insignias. In this regard, a rather blank canvass will suit the wearer better, giving out a more slender form. This also gives the wearer the choice of personalizing the coat she wants to.

If you would rather not buy leather or denim, then try to buy darker colored coats instead. These are safe choices as well. Dark colored coats tend to blend well with any style of clothing, and can also make the person wearing them look leaner. Try to make sure that the coat is comfortably snug. Ill fitting coats or those that are too large or too small, can make the teenager look heavier. Besides, comfortable plus size coats with classic styling and design elements will stand the test of time – far beyond the junior or teenage years.

Some plus size stores, brands and retailers who offer fun and trendy juniors plus size coats include Torrid, Deb Plus, Lane Bryant, Avenue, Alight, JC Penney, and more. As the fashion industry becomes more and more accepting of plus size teens and juniors, the fashion possibilities – even in coats, jackets and outerwear – continue to grow!