When getting dressed in the morning, outerwear is almost always an afterthought. But truth be told, what you wear on top of that fresh fall ensemble is just as important as the little bow-tie blouse underneath.
It’s with this in mind that we’ve highlighted eight body types and the best transitional jackets for each. Whether you’re tall or petite, are blessed with an hourglass shape or are more of an apple, we’ve found the topper that’ll never make you look frumpy--right this way.
Shorties, listen up: Cropped and streamlined is the way to go. In other words, avoid anything that is double-breasted or has excessive details. A simple moto jacket or any other short style (bomber, jean jacket, etc.) emphasizes your waist and draws the eye up. When shopping, opt for discrete zippers and minimal pockets.
Mango ($250), Madewell ($528), IRO ($1,145)
Just the opposite of petites, tall gals don’t need to accentuate their height with anything cropped (it will only make you look taller). Instead, try a military style that hits below the hips. Your frame allows for a few pockets and roomy sleeves.
Old Navy ($50), Zara ($100), J.Crew ($178)
It comes as no surprise that cuts with defined, tailored shoulders look best on your slender frame. When shopping, choose sleeves with seams at the edge of your shoulders (or just slightly beyond) and avoid anything along the lines of a dolman sleeve.
Topshop ($65), Charlie Jade ($174), Helmut Lang ($575)
Unstructured, loose-fitting jackets help de-emphasize your broad build. A cape coat that drapes nicely or a kimono with deep armholes and dropped sleeves are your best bets. These styles work well to draw the eye down and elongate your arms.
Wayf ($108), The Kooples ($595), Burberry ($1,495)
Contrary to what many assume, a sleek blazer that hits at the hips (or below) actually flatters your silhouette more than that boxy style you think is covering everything up. Why? It doesn’t add any extra weight on top and instead creates the illusion of a narrow silhouette.
Forever 21 ($33), Banana Republic ($80), AYR ($295)
Dressing an apple shape can go one of two ways: You can try to define your waist or you can skim right past it. A draped jacket flatters this body type because it’s slightly longer (it hits at the top of your hips) and unbuttoned, which creates a slimming vertical line.
ASOS ($135), BB Dakota ($145), Lafayette 148 ($898)
You’ve heard it a million times, but the key to dressing an hourglass figure is to emphasize your tiny waist. Therefore, a trench is the perfect solution. Find one with an open neck (it draws the eye up) and an A-line shape (it slims those hips).
H&M ($80), Lauren Ralph Lauren ($200), Paul by Paul Smith ($775)
Balancing the lower half is your MO. So, ladies, get rid of that old double-breasted pea coat. Truthfully, it makes you look larger, which isn’t really helping your cause. Instead, nab a single-breasted monochromatic coat. It will provide a clean silhouette and make you look slender from top to bottom.
Violeta ($230), Whistles ($560), Trademark ($798)
