18 Shopping Tips for Finding the Perfect Fall Coat
It’s hard to admit this, but soon, you’ll need a warm coat. Start shopping now (before all the good ones are gone!) with this in mind: The ideal coat is a classic, fitted shape in a three-quarter length and neutral color, with flattering pockets and cuffs that land at the wrists. Learn 17 more coat-shopping tips from Wear This, Toss That! Hundreds of Fashion and Beauty Swaps That Save Your Looks, Save Your Budget & Save You Time, by style expert Amy E. Goodman.
KEEP
• A lapel that’s face framing — it should be the opposite of your face shape. If you have a heart-shaped or square face, consider a rounded lapel to soften your facial structure. If your face is round or oval, a defined lapel will complement with its angles
• A coat that allows for movement. Nothing should be tight, including the back, front, and rear
• A length that flatters your legs. If you have thick calves, go for a mid-calf length or longer, bisecting your trouble area
• Sleeves that bisect your wrists
• Securely sewn buttons
• Pockets that don’t interrupt clean lines
TOSS
• A coat with armholes cut straight down
• A coat that doesn’t button, gapes between buttons, or is missing irreplaceable buttons
• A double-breasted coat if you’re busty, petite, or big-shouldered
• A style that requires effort to get in and out of
• Too-short or too-long sleeves
• An uneven hem, that reveals the clothing beneath
• An inner lining that dips below the coat’s hem
• A coat that fits you in the shoulders and nowhere else
• A color that washes you out, like yuck green, faded yellow, or pale pink
• A vintage coat that perpetually smells musty
• An oversized coat with seams that exceed shoulders, paneling or pockets that crowd the design
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