Don't believe lying show tunes: you're never fully dressed without a jacket or coat. Unless it's summer, then it's all about SPF. A good coat or jacket can finish out a look; it should be versatile, it should be clean and most importantly, it should fit! Below is a brief guide to women's coats and jackets.
Size
The one guiding principle, the absolute key in getting a good size jacket for a woman? Bust size. Even if it fits every other inch of your torso, a jacket simply doesn't fit if it won't button or if it sags in the front. From there, you can begin to take other areas of your upper body into consideration, namely the stomach, shoulders, and hips.
Body Shape
Of course, just because it fits doesn't mean it's flattering. You're going to have different style needs depending on your shape.
* Pear shaped women should seek balance above all else. Interesting cuts and textures at the collar create the illusion of symmetry with the lower body. In terms of length, look for jackets and coats that end at the hips or the knees; you basically want to call attention away from the hip area or bypass it.
* Curvy women with big busts should look for looser fabrics and low necklines. Essentially, you're looking to add length. If you have a narrow waist and wide hips on top of a big bust, look for belted styles in particular.
* A straight add hips with a wide waistband or strong shoulders. Avoid boxy outer layers.
Seasons
That jacket that you rocked last fall? It's not a great idea for spring. Not only have your fabric needs changed but styles and popular colors change with the season. Think light twill in the spring and leather in the fall.
Winter coats, at their most basic, need to be warm. If your winters vary from temperate to tundra, consider a coat that's easy to wear with layers.
