Should You Size Up Or Down For Winter Coat?
Size Up/Down — Sizing up or down for a winter coat is about layers, coat design, and personal taste. : Winter coats should keep you warm and support layers so get the correct size to stay comfortable and practical. For a full rundown on up- or down-sizing for your winter coat, here is a handy cheat sheet.
When Should You Size Up?
Size up if you are looking for comfort, versatility, and latitude to layer.
1. For Layering
Why It Matters: In cold climates, your layers will be long sweaters, hoodies, or thermals underneath your coat. A bit bigger will give you the extra room but without being cramped or constricted.
Ex: If you wear knit sweaters a lot, go up one size and the coat is warm enough over it.
2. For Freedom of Movement
Why It’s Crucial: A squishy coat makes you limited in your movements, especially in the shoulders and arms. Size up means more freedom of movement, especially when you’re commuting, going on a wall,k or playing sports outside.
Example: Long parkas or ski jackets, take a size up so you don’t have to struggle.
3. For Future-Proofing
Why You Need It: The slightly bigger coat will have room for body changes (weight fluctuation, etc.) Long-term it’s a better bet.
Example: If you are buying a good coat that you will be wearing for years, size up so it can be worn over time.
4. For Relaxed or Oversized Styles
Why It’s Important: Larger coats are in and they are designed to hang loose. : If you opt for a larger size, the unobtrusive, homey feel is only intensified.
Example: Aritzia Super Puff jackets are by design big, but going up a size will bring out the street style.
When Should You Stick to Your True Size?
Taking your natural size is good for dressy looks, coats that don’t weigh as much, or if you like your shapes to be slim.
1. For Tailored or Slim-Fit Coats
Why It’s Important: Business wool coats, trench coats, or formal jackets should be fitted to the body to look professional. Size up as it will mess up the silhouette and be oversized.
Example: You’ll only look good in a Burberry trench coat that fits snugly around your body.
2. For Lightweight or Everyday Use
Why it matters: If you are living in mild weather or aren’t going to be layering layers, going with your actual size helps the coat fit without bulk.
Example: A midweight puffer jacket like Uniqlo Ultra Light Down in your normal size will do for mild winters.
3. For Already Relaxed Fits
What To Wear: Most winter coats are loose to layer and therefore your standard size may already fit.
Example: Canada Goose parkas are comfortable and true to size, no need to order up when layering.
When Should You Size Down?
Sometimes, but very seldom, it makes sense to downsize.
1. For Oversized Coats
Why It’s So Crucial: If a long coat feels too big or oversized, you can go down one size and have it appear more tailored but still feel comfortable.
Example: If you find a puffer jacket too big for your body type, try a down-size.
2. For Minimal Layering
Why You Should: If you live in a warmer winter season without heavy coats, smaller size offers you the sleekest figure.
Sizing Down: A one-layer trench coat over light clothing could be better sized down.
How to Decide: Key Factors to Consider
1. Layering Needs
- Cold Climates: Buy extra big so there is space for bulky layers.
- Cold Winters: Be true to size if you will be only layering lightly.
2. Coat Style
- Coats that Are Comfortable or Wearable: It’s always better to get one size bigger if possible.
- Coats with Shapes: Wear what is right for a professional look.
3. Brand and Fit
The sizing chart and reviews from the brand will tell you if the coat is small, large, or true to size.
4. Mobility
: Put your arms and elbows in the pattern and sit down. Get a size up if the coat is tight or too narrow.
5. Length and Proportions
- Long Coats: Size up to prevent hip tightness and allow for mobility.
- Short Jackets: Fitting true to size or going down can keep it simple and contemporary.
Examples of Popular Brands and Their Sizing
Canada Goose
Preferably true to size fits with lots of room for sizing up. Don’t get too big if you don’t want an over-the-top appearance.
Patagonia
Offers regular and slim fits. Many people recommend sizing up for a little more room.
The North Face
Runs true to size but order up if layering is heavy.
Burberry
Tailored wool coats tend to ask you to stick to your actual size to make them look professional.
Uniqlo
For those with tight silhouettes, size up if you plan to layer.
Conclusion
- Size Up: If layering, mobility, or comfort is important to you, size up. You can use it especially for parkas, puffers, and coats made for cold weather.
- True to Size: For tailored coats, relaxed-fit coats, or coats made with a loose fitting, always buy your true size.
- Size Down: If you have large coats or if you like to keep it flattering without layering, only size down.
All in all, the best thing is to measure yourself, read the size chart of the brand, and try the coat on (if you can) until it fits you just right.
FAQ
Q: Can I take the XS if I plan to wear bulky sweaters?
A: Yes, the upsize provides room for layers but doesn’t squirm.
Q: Should I go for a size larger in long coats?
A: If you are wearing a long coat, size up so that it can move better and not feel tight at the hips when sitting.
Q: Are oversized coats big?
A: Actually, big coats are designed to be big, so you’re going to end up being exactly the right size.
Q: Should I go up for formal coats?
A: No, only wear what you size so formal coats look formal and regal.
Q: Can I resize a coat that’s too big?
A: Many coats, wool coats especially, can be cut to suit. But it can be hard to change very insulated or technical coats.
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