7 Ways to Wear an Oversize Coat Without Looking Sloppy (2024)

Speaking from my personal wardrobe experience, I don't know when the last time I acquired a coat that wasn't nice and loose was. And the more fitted coats I've owned in the past never got much wear, as getting them on over a sweater isn't particularly comfortable. So loose coats it is for me, and luckily, that's the trend when it comes to outerwear—and has been for several seasons.Given the popularity of oversize coats, I think it's worth discussing how to style them.

As with anything oversize, it can have the tendency to look sloppy. If that's not what you're going for but you want to wear a big coat, there are several easy tricks to keep your outfits looking polished, elegant, and sophisticated (the trending aesthetic this season).

Keep reading for all the ways to style your favorite oversize coats, with a little help from some of Instagram's most stylish.

Belt It

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(Image credit: @slipintostyle)

Belting your coat to create a cinched-waist silhouette is perhaps the simplest trick of them all, but it's also one of the most effective.

Shop a belted coat:

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COS

Belted Double-Faced Wool Coat

Wear Pointed-Toe Shoes

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(Image credit: @emilisindlev)

Pointed-toe shoes are incredibly sleek and polished, and their sharpness rubs off on the entire outfit. Case in point with this colorful look worn by Emili Sindlev.

Shop pointed-toe shoes:

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Jeffrey Campbell

Persona Slingback Pumps

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Prada

Bunny Flora Pointed Toe Pumps

Keep It Simple

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(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

A simple, minimalist outfit that lets the coat take center stage is a timeless, no-fail styling trick. Here, an oversize coat is worn with nothing but jeans, a white T-shirt, and slingback flats, and it's perfect. No notes.

Shop simple pieces:

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Mango

Handmade Oversized Wool Coat

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Splendid

Crewneck T-Shirt

Make It Monochrome

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(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Wearing a monochromatic outfit is an easy way to look put-together. This allows you to wear whatever coat color (or print) you choose, as the rest of the outfit isn't busy in the least.

Shop a monochromatic outfit:

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Reformation

Elora Knit Two Piece

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Reformation

Bethany Ballet Flats

Wear a Belt

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(Image credit: @raeannlangas)

If your coat doesn't have a belt (see tip number one), leave it open and wear a belt underneath. Trust me—it's hard to look sloppy with a belt on.

Shop belts:

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Ganni

Double Eyelet Belt

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Toteme

Leather Belt

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Bottega Veneta

Leather Belt

Pair Polished Flats With Cropped Pants

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(Image credit: @annabelrosendahl)

Baggy pants paired with an oversize coat is a very cool-girl look, but it's also a bit sloppy. Instead, show a bit of ankle with a pair of slightly cropped pants.

Shop cropped pants and polished flats:

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Norma Kamali

Pencil Pants

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Zara

Animal Print Ballet Flats

WearIt With Fitted Pieces

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(Image credit: @elizagracehuber)

Last but not least, leaving your oversize coat open and wearing a fitted look is a no-brainer way to look chic this winter.

Shop fitted pieces:

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Reformation

Coen Knit Dress

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Wardrobe.NYC

Stirrup Legging

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Zara

Pinstripe Mini Skirt

Shop Chic Oversize Coats

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The Frankie Shop

Gaia Oversized Double-Breasted Wool-Blend Felt Coat

The Frankie Shop is my go-to for oversize outerwear.

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H&M

Wool-Blend Coat

This looks incredibly cozy.

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& Other Stories

Voluminous Belted Wool Coat

This one comes in a variety of neutral colors.

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Helsa

Oversized Coat With Detachable Scarf

Our editors are freaking out over this one.

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Ba&sh

Tao Double-Breasted Wool-Blend Overcoat

If ever there were a time to get yourself a red coat, it's now.

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Loulou Studio

Borneo Coat

I'm obsessed with this brand.

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Zara

Double Sided Wool Coat

This all-in-one coat has a hood and an attached scarf.

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Oak + Fort

Oversized Trench Coat

When it comes to trenches, it's oversize or bust for me.

Explore More:

7 Ways to Wear an Oversize Coat Without Looking Sloppy (2024)

FAQs

How do you look good in an oversized coat? ›

Pair an oversized coat for women with equally oversized jeans or dress pants. You'll be giving, not absolutely serving, a street fashion-forward outfit. Prefer a more sophisticated look? Try fitted pants or skirts to create contrast and dimension.

How to style a coat that is too big? ›

I would typically recommend pairing an oversized piece with something more fitted, like slim cut pants and a fitted top. The contrast between a fitted outfit underneath an oversized jacket is the most foolproof way to style looser pieces!

What kind of coat makes you look thinner? ›

Cocoon coats are probably the best option, but an a-line coat is also great for making the waist appear slimmer. For a sportier feel consider a lined bomber jacket.

What do you do when your jacket is too big? ›

Run the washing machine on the hottest water setting and longest cycle time. You do not need to use detergent to shrink your jacket. Just run the washing machine with plain water. Polyester generally takes more exposure to heat to shrink, whereas cotton can shrink after just one wash cycle.

Is it OK to wear an oversize coat? ›

It's perfect for creating fashionable layering, allowing you to play with different styles and create unique outfits. From the office to nightlife, the oversized coat will always be a winning choice.

How do you know if a coat is too oversized? ›

If raising up your hands causes the front of the jacket to billow out, it's probably too big. Pay attention to the fit around your shoulders when your arms are raised.

What style of coat is most flattering? ›

A belted coat offers a flattering, cinched-in waist, and the option of a faux fur piece is an easy way to mix up the classic belted-trench style. Tailored jackets can help build structure into a look, while coats that flare at the waist or lower hem are an ideal shape for those whose hips run slightly larger.

How do you look good in oversized clothes? ›

Opt for slim-fitting bottoms

Since the top of your outfit is so loose and flowy, slim-fitting bottoms such as skinny jeans or leggings help to keep the outfit in proportion and add structure.

How much bigger should a coat be than your measurements? ›

Opt for a jacket that's 1 size larger than your shirt size.

This is the general advice for buying a jacket so that it won't be too tight. Having the jacket a little bigger than your normal size will also help to ensure that you can easily layer it over other items.

How do you style a big puffy coat? ›

7 STYLISH PUFFER JACKET OUTFITS
  1. T-shirt + bucket hat. A T-shirt and bucket hat embodies laid-back comfort. ...
  2. Midi skirt + turtleneck + ankle booties. ...
  3. Faux leather pants + loafers. ...
  4. Leggings/tights + heels. ...
  5. Blouse + trousers. ...
  6. Sweater + dark jeans. ...
  7. Mini skirt + knee-high boots.

How big should an oversized jacket be? ›

If in doubt try to test out two sizes if possible. You might need to size up to get a true oversized fit, but that isn't always the case, so if possible try on your usual size and the size above to achieve your desired fit.

How to look slim in a coat? ›

Wear All-Black Underneath

Especially if your coat is a contrasting color, wearing all-black underneath will create a seamless and thus slimming look everywhere from your cuffs to your legs.

What to wear to hide a big belly? ›

One of the best ways to avoid drawing attention to your belly? Avoid clingy fabrics and go for ones that give your body space to breathe. Opt for A-line dresses or empire waistline dresses that glide over the tummy, like this green animal wrap dress.

What color makes you look the most skinny? ›

Black never fails to make you look slim and elegant. Darker shades of colors like blue, purple and brown can also help to hide flaws and create a slimming illusion. On the other hand, lighter colors, like white and khaki, can add pounds and give the illusion of a larger frame.

How to make an oversized jacket look good? ›

Embrace differing textures and match an oversized cord jacket with leggings to offset the relaxed top half. Wear it with a long-sleeve body or blouse. For an understated and classic look, wear a boxy crop or boyfriend tee with either matching or contrasting fitted cord bottoms.

How do you shrink a large jacket to a medium? ›

How to Shrink Cotton Clothes
  1. Launder your garment. ...
  2. Place the garment in the dryer. ...
  3. Check on the garment every five minutes. ...
  4. Remove the garment when you believe it has shrunk to the desired size, even if it is still a little damp.
  5. Allow the garment to air dry.
  6. Try it on for size.

How do you know if a jacket is too small for you? ›

If you're struggling to raise your arms, it's a definite sign that the coat is too small. If you can manage a hug, but your movement feels restricted around your shoulders or elbows, then you might want to try the next size up. Remember that different jackets will fit differently.

Are oversized coats still in style? ›

Yet, amidst the flurry of fleeting fads, there exists a timeless wardrobe staple that continues to reign supreme: the oversized jacket. From runways to street style, this fashion favorite has transcended generations and trends, earning its place as a must-have item in every wardrobe.

Do oversized coats look good? ›

The versatility, stylishness, and ability to cater to a variety of fashion preferences make the oversized coat a timeless go-to style for the couture world.

What length jacket is most flattering? ›

A well-chosen coat must neither be too short nor too long. The coat length should be based on the size of the body. A good guide is the rule that the hem should preferably end a hand's breath above the knee. This length has a visually elongating effect.

How to tell if a winter coat is too big? ›

Check shoulder seams: Your shoulder seams should sit at your shoulders. If they stretch halfway down your bicep, the coat is too big. The hug test: Wear the jacket and give yourself a big hug, reaching as far around your body as possible.

What size should I get for an oversized coat? ›

You might need to size up to get a true oversized fit, but that isn't always the case, so if possible try on your usual size and the size above to achieve your desired fit. Make sure you can layer.

How do you look good in a puffy jacket? ›

When styling a really big puffy coat, you want to balance the volume out. Instead of wearing big wide leg jeans with this large coat, I went with skinnies. Would also be great with a faux leather legging too. Add either a sneaker or chunky boot to balance the bottom part out so you don't look entirely top heavy.

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