When choosing the best plus size outerwear, look for the warmth, wind or rain protection you need without adding extra bulk. Vertical rows of buttons and v-shaped necklines can be slimming, while double-breasted and quilted styles of outerwear are often best avoided by plus sizes. Length is another important consideration when shopping for plus size outerwear. Cropped jackets may be worn attractively by many people with fuller figures, but tapered garments that end at the smallest part of the waist are typically much more flattering than a boxy coat or jacket that ends at the widest part of the hips. Rather than choosing ultra-trendy outerwear, looking for good quality jackets, coats and blazers that are stylish but more classic can be better on your budget.
Adding trendy, up-to-the-moment colors and patterns through scarves, bags, hats and other accessories to classic, flattering outerwear can make your jackets, coats and blazers wardrobe staples. Make the most of your budget by investing in a few good pieces that are versatile. For instance, a longer coat is warmer in cooler weather, plus it can be more easily worn with evening wear. Consider a quality wool or trench coat. These styles are also usually ideal for wearing with office clothes.
A good-fitting blazer or two can not only be the mainstay of an office wardrobe, but double as weekend wear if you pair it with more casual pieces. Look for a blazer that creates a flattering v-neckline, tapers at the waist and fits over the widest part of your stomach and hips. Try scrunching or rolling up the sleeves and adding a wider belt over a wrapped or buttoned-up blazer and wearing it with jeans for a fun weekend look. As a more casual piece of weekend plus size outerwear to have in your wardrobe, a cropped jean jacket that tapers to end at your waist can be a great choice if you wear a longer top under it that fits close to your body without being overly clingy.
Double-breasted plus size outerwear styles, with their two rows of buttons, may make your figure seem wider at the chest and stomach. A single zipper or button row may be much more flattering. Self-tie belts on coats can define your waist and create a slimming silhouette. If your climate or weather conditions warrant an ultra-warm coat, avoid bulky or quilted styles in favor of heavy lined wool.