7 Ways to Look Slimmer in Your Winter Coat

Even if, like me, you have no aversion to cold weather, it’s always hard to make the transition from sunny spring and summer to the more frigid periods of fall and winter. As one of my New York colleagues quite perfectly put it the other day, what was once a strut around town begins to feel like more of a schlep thanks to the weight of cold-weather garb and the need to wear literal puff around town, in addition to countless layers and accessories. In order to put some pep back in your step (or schlep) this winter, today we’re bringing you seven easy ways to feel just a bit slimmer in your winter wear.
Scroll through to read about each, see some looks we love, and then of course shop our picks of winter women coats to buy now!

Wear It Off the Shoulder

Besides simply looking more stylish, wearing your coat off-the-shoulder also reduces some of the bulk at the top of your body and accentuates your chest and collar bones.

Wear Skinny Jeans

Unlike flares and straight-leg jeans, skinny jeans gather at the ankles, showing off the slimmest part of your leg and drawing attention there underneath a bulky coat.

Only Button the Top Buttons

By only buttoning the top of your coat, you allow your legs to make an appearance at the very least when you walk, but also—depending on the coat—when you stand, so people see something other than just a bulky jacket.

Wear Heels

It sounds like a no-brainer, but it’s easy to forget the slimming power of heels in winter. If pumps are out of the question for your climate or commute, heeled boots do the trick.

Belt It

Even if your coat doesn’t come with one, we suggest adding a belt to cinch your waist for a universally flattering look.

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.

Wear It Open

While it may not be an option at times (think New York City in early January), wearing your coat open when you can creates a long, slimming line down the front of your body, as demonstrated by Pernille Teisbaek.