Guest Post
As the temperature drops and the cold nights draw in, many of us find ourselves focussing more on protecting ourselves from the elements than on looking good. But there’s no need to spend the next few months trudging around in heavy and unflattering clothing. There are plenty of ladies coats and ladies knitwear items out there that are as stylish as they are warm. Unfortunately, the winter wear on offer in many high street stores can be quite limited – particularly for plus size women who are all too often all but ignored by the major fashion retailers.
In order to get around this problem, it’s important to show some perseverance. Be aware of exactly what you’re looking for and don’t just settle for the first ladies coat you find in your size. Check out some online catalogue stores, as many of them stock a much wider range, and a few specialise in stylish plus-size clothing, often at more affordable prices than you’d find in-store.
Now for the important bit – what to actually look for! If you’re after a stylish ladies coat for winter, full-length is far more flattering on a plus-size woman than a coat that falls just below the waist. A full-length ladies coat should end just above the knee. Stick to lighter materials that hang well to avoid a boxy look. Oversized shoulders are a definite no-no, as they’ll really affect the way your coat drapes on your frame.
Of course, a thinner coat may not provide quite as much insulation, which is where the art of layering comes in. Rather than weighing yourself down with one thick woollen item, you can achieve just as much warmth with a few thinner layers, and they won’t make you look nearly as bulky. In fact, several thin layers will retain the heat far better than a single piece. Wear a well-made, lightweight ladies cardigan over a long-sleeved top or blouse, and wear your coat on top of that. If you want to wear a skirt, just make sure you’re wearing sturdy, waterproof boots, and protect your legs with thick tights. You can even mix tights with socks if you pull them down so they’re just folded over the top of your boots – although be careful with this look as it’s a thin line between casual chic and bag lady!
Finally, remember that no two women have the same body, and what works for one person may not work for you. Be aware of your shape and dress to emphasise your best assets. Women with a typical hourglass figure often find that a ladies coat which fastens at the waist with a small belt really helps to show off their curves, while more apple shaped women may find a double breasted coat too restrictive over a large bust, so a single breasted coat may work better. Pear shaped woman should avoid ladies coats that finish at the hips and instead choose a three-quarter length or full length coat. Take the time to shop around, that perfect winter outfit really is out there!
This guest post was provided to us by Daxon, a leading online fashion and home shopping catalogue,
specialising in classical and elegantly styled fashions.