The five classifications of body shape are no new invention. In fact, they have been labelled ‘dated’ by some. A long-withstanding concept in the fashion industry, over the number of years that the labelling of a body’s shape has existed, many have now come to adopt the understanding that classifications span much further than the five that seem to be integrated into fashion vernacular.
In saying this, there’s a reason the ‘body shape’ concept has withstood the eras – usefulness. While we’re not talking about aspirations – because, frankly, body shape comes down to genetics and not how much someone eats or exercises – they can be considered a guide to dressing in a flattering way for your own body. It’s about emphasising your features rather than hiding them, granting a sense of confidence and autonomy to the dresser.
When it comes to winter fashion, many will relate to the struggle of finding flattering clothing. When the cold comes into the picture, all sense of shape seems to be thrown out the window in trade for warmth and marshmallow-like comfort that only a puffer jacket will grant. No more!
Style and warmth are not trade-offs. With the integration of our age-old friend, the body type classifications, you can dress the weather and for your body.
WATCH: How to find a swimsuit for your body type. Article continues after video.
While the puffer and rain jacket certainly have their places in the winter wardrobe, there are many more coat shapes to offer. Spanning past the standard trench or ‘shacket’, particular lines can be considered more flattering than others.
With the help of styling duo Laura Cracknell and Madeline Downs, New Idea has compiled the ultimate guide to finding a winter coat for your body type.
Laura and Madeline, who co-founded the affordable personal styling service Your Style Edit, are expert wardrobe curators, with eyes for detail regarding aesthetics, lifestyle and, of course, body shape. Needless, to say, you’re in safe hands.
So, what are you waiting for? Unleash your inner Gok Wan with our expert guide to finding a flattering winter coat.
A brief description of the body types
For tips on finding your body shape, read our guide to finding your body type. Here, we provide a brief recount of the five types.
Hourglass
Bust and hips are roughly the same measurements. Waist tends to be narrower and more defined.
Pear
Described as more ‘bottom-heavy’. Bust and shoulders are narrower than the hips and butt.
Apple
Fuller around the midsection, hips, shoulders and waistline have the same width. Lower legs and arms tend to be more slender.
Inverted triangle
Described as the opposite of the pear shape, being ‘top-heavy’. Shoulders tend to be wider than the waist and hips.
Rectangle
Shoulders, waist, hip, and busts are likely a similar width.
Coats for the body types
Laura and Madeline provide coat recommendations based on body shape.
Hourglass
Opt for coats “that draw attention to your narrow waist; a belted trench, a wrap coat, a double-breasted blazer or a cropped bomber jacket.”
AERE Organic Cotton Trench, $250 at THE ICONIC | SHOP NOW
Pear
Opt for “styles that accentuate your smaller top frame, tailored or cropped jackets, bomber jackets, trench coats that accentuate your waist and full-length coats.”
Olivia Wrap Coat, $189.99 at Forever New | SHOP NOW
Apple
Look for styles that “are open and oversized… to accentuate your legs, as well as peplum and blazer styles that can cinch in just below your bust area.”
Calli Lily Coat, $169.95 at THE ICONIC | SHOP NOW
Inverted triangle
“Dressing for your type is all about balancing out your broad shoulders by drawing attention to your lower half, so opt for coat styles that have small collars or are collarless, or long, fitted styles.”
Piper Felt Wrap Coat in Black, $249.95 (currently $129) at Myer | SHOP NOW
Rectangle
“Coat styles that suit you are structured, belted or double-breasted. Denim jackets and vests also suit your shape.”
Madison The Label Annabelle Jacket, $165 at THE ICONIC | SHOP NOW
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