Best Plus Size Coats for Women

Having a durable, warm coat is essential for colder temperatures, but it can be difficult to decide on the perfect style for the season. Consider the different features, fit, and design to get the ideal plus size winter coat.

Understanding Plus Size Women's Coat Styles

Plus size women's coats are available in everything from classic styles to fun, modern designs. To get started, consider the different types of coats on the market:

Women's Winter Parkas. A parka is a heavyweight coat that is usually windproof and waterproof or water-resistant. It is lined and/or insulated to withstand cold temperatures.
3-in-1 Coats. These are made with removable linings or inner jackets that can be used together or alone for multiple levels of warmth.
Water-Resistant Coats. These are winter coats designed to resist water and inclement temperatures. These jackets can vary from waist length to ankle length and usually have hoods.
Trench Coats. A trench is typically a double-breasted belted style inspired by military jackets for a look that is dressy and elegant.
Down Coats. A down jacket is insulated with duck or goose feathers (down) and designed to withstand cold temperatures.
Stadium Coats. A stadium coat is long (reaching the thighs or calves) and insulated. It may have pockets and a drawstring at the waist to help give it shape.
Camping Coats. These include field jackets, barn coats, and other coats designed for outdoor use that are durable and warm.
Raincoats. Raincoats may be lined or unlined, but they are usually not as warm as other styles like down coats or parkas.
Peacoats. A peacoat is a double-breasted coat usually made from wool and often features a wide collar.
Fit-and-Flare Coats. Fit-and-flare coats are structured coat styles that come in at the waist and then gently flare out to create a flattering shape.

Find a Flattering Fit

A great fit is important when it comes to buying a coat. As this is an item that will be worn time and time again throughout the season, it is key that a woman feels great about the fit of her coat. Read the sizing information carefully to make sure you get a coat that is neither too big (which can feel frumpy) or too small (which will look less flattering). Consider overall body shape as well. Different coat styles have different looks; some might draw more attention to the shoulders, while others might have a decorative hem or other feature that draws the eye lower.

Create Balance

Think about how a specific coat-style can help create balance in the figure. Ladies with pear-shaped body types may want a coat style that skims over the hips or has more volume at the top of the coat with its hood and collar, for example. Women who have a more apple-shaped body type, however, might want a more streamlined style or accents like pockets or decorative designs lower on the coat to create balance. Try different coat styles to see which ones work best for your unique, beautiful body type.

It's All in the Details

There are dozens of choices in coat styles for plus-size women, but sometimes it all comes down to the details. There are many ways the small details of the coat can flatter a woman's figure. Eye-catching buttons add interest and definition to a coat, while details like angled pockets can create a sleek, polished look. Fit-and-flare and belted styles look fabulous and are universally flattering. Lightly structured coat styles that skim the body are also flattering looks for most women. Details like quilting, stitching, and faux fur can elevate a coat's style and add to the overall look.

Think About Length and Weight

The length and weight of a winter coat are practical considerations plus-size women will need to evaluate when deciding on the right style. Hip-length women's winter coats are a flattering and popular option, but longer styles also have advantages. Some longer coat styles have a more professional look, and longer heavyweight coats are ideal for more extreme temperatures. Look at the coat's temperature rating and weight to ensure it will meet your requirements. Depending on the typical weather, a woman may need multiple coat options, such as a fleece jacket for fall, a water-resistant hip- or waist-length coat for spring, and a heavyweight parka or stadium coat for winter. Some coats, such as 3-in-1 styles or those with removable linings, have the versatility to handle multiple seasons and types of weather.

Choose the Right Fabric and Design

There is plenty of diversity in women's coats, including a host of options in fabric, design, and construction to meet different needs and style preferences. Plus size down vests and coats have a unique, stylish look, but the look is very different from a long insulated stadium coat. Water-resistant fabrics and insulated styles are important for outdoor winter activities, while wool coats are warm, elegant, and perfect for wearing to the office. Some jacket styles have a casual feel, like a short zipped fleece jacket, while others embody a more sophisticated vibe, such as a belted cotton trench. Still others, such as waterproof plus size rain jackets, are designed with specific features.

Get a Functional and Stylish Coat

A great winter coat has a practical purpose, but thanks to the exciting options in plus size women's coats, no woman has to sacrifice style for the sake of staying warm. Discover a new coat design that can tackle the cold temps and flatter your figure. From classic trenches in pretty neutral hues to contemporary winter coats done in bold, bright colors, there is something perfect for every woman this season.