Should You Buy A Winter Coat A Size Bigger? -

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Should You Buy A Winter Coat A Size Bigger?

When shopping for a winter coat, the size matters when it comes to comfort and fit. If you prefer to buy a winter coat a size bigger, that can sometimes be a smart move, depending on factors like the type of coat you’re using, how many layers you like to wear, and the shape of the coat. So here’s a rundown of why you should size up for your winter coat.

Why Consider Buying a Size Bigger?

A couple of practical reasons why you’d size up in a winter coat:

Layering Room

What It’s Good For: You’ll have layers underneath your coat such as sweaters, hoodies, or thermal tops when it gets cold. One size bigger and you can layer without feeling trapped.
When to Size Up: If you’re a regular wearer of bulky sweaters or if you plan to wear the coat outdoors, then going a size up gives you more space.

Ease of Movement

Why It’s Important: A tight coat can also be uncomfortable for your shoulders and arms. A bigger one can offer more mobility and be great for skis, hiking, or running errands.
When to Sizing Up: If the coat is too tight in the shoulders or chest as you put your arms down, sizing up is a good idea.

Future-Proofing

Why It Matters: A bit bigger coat can accommodate changes in weight or body type over time. This comes in handy especially if you’re shopping for a high-quality coat you’ll be wearing for years.
When Should You Size Up: If you are a loose wearer, or you simply need the coat to be durable at different life stages, size up.

When to Stick to Your True Size

Sizing up helps, but not always. And here’s when you should stick with your regular size:

If the Coat Is Big Enough…

Why It’s Important: Many winter coats, whether it’s a parka or puffer jacket, are a little too big for the average person and are made to layer. If you go for the bigger size, it may come out unflattering or too baggy.
What to do: Go over the coat’s fit information. If it says it’s loose or extra big, just be your true size.

For Tailored or Formal Coats

What It’s For: Customized winter coats such as wool or trench coats should fit snugly for a professional look. Size up can ruin the desired silhouette and come out too large.
What to Wear: Be true to size and opt for lightweight underneath to stay sleek.

If the Coat Has Adjustable Options

Why It’s Important: Adjustable features like drawstrings, belts, or elastic cuffs can be found in most winter coats, so you don’t have to order up.
What To Wear: Use these features to get the fit you desire without a size increase.

How to Choose the Perfect Size

For the best fit, do these things:

Measure Yourself

Measure your bust, waist, hips, and arms while you’re still wearing the layers you’d be wearing under the coat. – Cross them out on the brand’s size chart.

Check the Fit

Fit the coat and don’t worry if it is too big on your shoulders, chest, or arms. Turn your arms around and get on your feet as you put the coat on so you can see if it moves.

Consider Your Style Preferences

Maybe you prefer a bigger size for a loose, big-body look (unless it’s strictly needed for warmth or mobility). If you want something tailored, or fitted, however, get true to size.

Examples of When to Size Up or Stick to Your Size

Puffer Jackets and Parkas

Take an Upsize if you need a bit more space for layers or are trying to get the fit a little loose.
Stay True to Size if the coat is already built to be baggy.

Example: The North Face McMurdo Parka is loose-fitting so usually going up a size should do the trick.

Wool Coats and Trench Coats

Size up if you are going to layer on heavy sweaters.
Make It Fit Size for a neat, professional appearance.

Example: A Max Mara Wool Coat runs true to size as it’s made for a sleek shape.

Technical or Ski Jackets

Size Up if you will be layering for the weather outside.
Stick to Size if the coat is referred to as roomy or with adjustable parts.

Example: Arc’teryx Therme Parka has good stretch so don’t oversize.

What to Avoid When Sizing Up

Size up is practical, but don’t fall into these dreaded traps:

Too Much Oversizing

When the coat is too big, it’s messy, it’s heavy, it lets the cold in and defeats its purpose.

Ignoring the Coat’s Design

Even some coats, such as tailored ones, shrink and fall apart if you size up too large.

Assuming Brands are All the Same

Sizing is different for brands, always check the brand size chart.

Conclusion

It is all based on your preference if you need to purchase a size larger for the winter coat. Size up if you value layering, movement, and wear for a while. But when you’re going for specific or already roomy designs, stay true to your size. Remember the size of the coat, your layering habits, and the brand’s sizing chart for your consideration at all times.

FAQ

Q: Should I go big in a puffer jacket?
A: Only if you’re going to be wearing bulky sweaters underneath or you need something a bit loose. Most puffer jackets are relaxed in fit.

Q: Are large coats still a style in 2025?
A: Yes! Big coats are in, but don’t wear too big for a good fashion show.

Q: How do I know if a coat is too small?
A: If the coat feels baggy around the shoulders, chest,t or arms, or is shackled, it’s too small.

Q: Should I order an up or down if Iamn between sizes?
A: Size up normally, but especially with winter coats as they need to be layerable and moveable.

Q: What if I want to fix a winter coat that is too big?
A: Yeah, you can tailor-fit a few coats (wool or trench) but it’s probably not going to work with the heavy-insulated/tech jackets.