Q&A: How to Choose a 3/4 Length Coat

May 9th, 2007

Q: I love the look of knee length narrow coats, but I’m only 5′1".  Is it against the fashion rules for me to wear such a long coat?

Via Spiga Smoke Grey Wool Blend Graphico CoatA:  Don’t be afraid to sport a knee-length coat if it’s a narrow cut.

While long, floor-length coats will overwhelm your small frame, knee-length coats, if proportioned correctly, can be figure flattering.  Here’s six things to look for in a knee-length coat for maximum figure flattery:

(1)  Styles with simple lines,
(2)  One or two button closures,
(3)  Narrow lapels that end above the natural waistline,
(4)  Empire-waist styles,
(5)  High necklines, which create the illusion of height, and
(6)  Belts, which (if any) should be placed above the natural waistline.


Pictured:
Via Spiga Smoke Grey Wool Blend Graphico Coat | $183.99 (sale) at Bluefly.

Style question?  We’ve got answers.  E-mail us at tips at omiru dot com, or leave us a comment with your question.

Entry Filed under: Q&A,Women's

4 Comments

  • 1. jennifer  |  May 9th, 2007 at 3:47 pm

    I’m also 5’1″ and had always avoided longer coats. But just recently I got a almost-knee length coat and have been really liking it. Just remember if you’re buying online, the coat will be longer on you than it is on the model! So look for one that isn’t quite knee length.

  • 2. Trisha  |  May 10th, 2007 at 3:48 am

    Excellent point, Jennifer. What looks like 3/4 length on the model is going to be longer than 3/4 length on petites. Thanks for the tip!

  • 3. pintucked  |  May 12th, 2007 at 8:41 pm

    I’m 5’1 and have owned a knee-length coat for over a year. I love my coat. Despite the length, it looks great on me and actually makes me look taller.

  • 4. Trisha  |  May 13th, 2007 at 2:33 pm

    Thanks for sharing, Pintucked!


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