Choosing the Right Fit: Men's Guide to Buying Winter Coats
Your outerwear is a piece you will wear weekly if not daily through the colder months. As the outermost garment, your coat emphasizes your body shape and ultimately defines your overall look and first impression. Whether you need a parka for shoveling and hiking or a car coat for work and nights out, finding the right fit is critical.
Outerwear varies widely in its fit profile so understanding what you need is the first step. Some coats are longer and will cover a suit jacket or untucked button downs, others stop at the waist. Some have hoods or high necks for extra warmth. Though typically down coats have less definition than say a wool coat, a coat that is too big will make you appear heavier and less put-together. Here are our top three fit tips:
Start at the Shoulder
The fit of the shoulder uses the same rules as those for a shirt or suit jacket. This means the shoulder seam should meet the end of your shoulder and not beyond. For outerwear, this measurement should be done while wearing a typical top such as a sweater or suit jacket. You do not want to gain space for layers by choosing a jacket that falls out past your shoulder. The sleeve should be long enough to cover everything you wear -- the heavier the coat the longer the sleeve can be, even covering up to an inch of your palm.
Check the Neck
There should not be a significant gap around and especially at the back of the neck. The coat should fit over your clothing while still laying flat and secure around the neck and across your back and shoulders without bunching or pulling. If it has a collar that can be fastened around the neck for extra warmth, like a pea coat, be sure it closes fully and can be worn comfortably.
Be Body Conscious
Your coat should follow the shape of your body without being tight anywhere. Most people overestimate the room they need to layer pieces underneath. Be sure you have the extra space you need without choosing a coat that is simply a size too big. The front of the coat should lay comfortably and flat against the chest and body with some space in between. Button or zip your coat from the waist up to ensure a comfortable fit -- most fasteners below the waist are often left unfastened for ease of movement. There should not be any stress or pulling at any fastener point - if you see these stress lines the coat is too fitted.
Need help purchasing the perfect winter coat for your body? Let our Stylists help! Your Unfoldid Stylist will ship or hand-deliver handpicked pieces to your home or office. You try on each piece as your Stylist guides you in choosing the coat that best fits you and your wardrobe needs. Purchase only what you love!
Each appointment includes a silhouette and closet/wardrobe consultation that can be done either in-person or virtually over Zoom.