Fashion stylist Angela Foster shares what types of jackets petite frames should avoid and the layers you should actually invest in instead.
As a five-foot-two shopper, I'm always looking for fashionable jackets that won't consume my frame. In an effort to update my fall wardrobe with trendy layers that fit right, I spoke with Angela Foster, a fashion stylist who specializes in petite clothing, to determine which fall jackets to avoid and the styles worth investing in.
A warm layer is always a priority, but that doesn't mean it can't look stylish, too. As a petite shopper herself, Foster says it's all about the length. "Avoid everything 'car coat' length that ends mid-thigh. That length cuts petites off prematurely, making us appear both shorter and wider," she tells PEOPLE. Instead, she recommends short, jacket length coats that land at the top of the hipbones or higher. If you want a long coat, then she says to aim for a hem that "hits at the lower calf to ankle area."
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Also known as a "princess coat," this layer "was absolutely made for petites," according to Foster. It has a full-length design that she says creates a "super flattering column of color," which makes your figure appear longer and leaner. The design has a cinched, fitted waist that creates definition, another must for petite shoppers, Foster adds. "Plus, it's such a sophisticated, timeless style, it'll never look dated," she says.
Statement jackets are an easy way to express your personality, but Foster advises you need to be "super picky" about which prints you choose. High-contrast ones like zebra print and big plaid squares can "overwhelm a small frame and end up wearing the [person]," she warns. Instead, you should opt for smaller, tighter patterns like this houndstooth shacket. This houndstooth find is made with thick flannel and a long silhouette to help keep you warm as the temps drop.
Foster considers a windbreaker a "super smart investment piece" if you don't already own one. But, you should look for designs that are tailored and have clean, minimal lines, like Adidas' style, to avoid the jacket overtaking your body. This jacket has a large front pocket to keep your hands warm or hold your phone. The elastic hem is handy for adjusting the height so it hits at a petite-friendly length.
If you want a fun addition to your outerwear rotation, Foster recommends a faux fur jacket -- "but only when the staple trench and leather jacket categories are covered." Not only can it express your personal style, but it has the added bonus of warmth. This cropped silhouette hits right above your waistline and the material is "very soft" and looks like real fur, according to one shopper.
If you prefer a shorter jacket, Foster says bombers are a "terrific" option for waist definition. You should avoid styles that are "too oversized or 'blousy' above the waistband," she advises or else it can get a "fluffy 'Michelin Man' effect." Levi's style hits right at the hips, per one five-foot-two reviewer, and comes with a simple, zip-up design to avoid overwhelming your figure. Plus, the fitted cuffs and hem lock out the cold, for warmth on windy days.
Trench coats are another timeless staple, but for petite shoppers, Foster advises passing on styles with "oodles of tabs and straps, buckles, and pocket flaps. That's way too much going on for a small frame." This style is similar to one Sharon Stone wore and follows the cropped, petite-friendly hemline. One five-foot-two reviewer even applauded how the sleeves are "remarkably not too long."
If you want to bundle but look polished while doing so, this long jacket should be in your rotation. It's calf-length, according to a five-foot reviewer, and will give petite shoppers a more elongated look based on Foster's length recommendations. The tie belt can be tightened for a more cinched fit (similar to the results of a princess coat) and the pockets keep your hands toasty on days you forgot your gloves.
This baggy moto jacket hits at the waist, which prevents the jacket "from wearing" you, according to Foster. Compared to classic motorcycle jackets, this style has more muted zippers and fewer pockets, which can help avoid it from overwhelming smaller frames. One five-foot-two shopper considers it their "go-to" jacket, writing it "goes with everything and goes over everything."
For colder days, this puffer jacket has a cropped length that hits right at the hips and can be worn on morning walks or commutes to the office. The design is simple and features two front pockets large enough to store your keys or lip gloss and a zip-up closure you can wear opened or closed. Plus it's not overly bulky so you don't have to worry about it overwhelming your frame.
Denim jackets never go out of style and can be paired with practically everything. Like the name suggests, this Wrangler style has some stretch to it for a more comfortable fit. Most petite reviewers noted it's lightweight so you can easily layer underneath. The arms are slightly long but easy to roll up according to one five-foot shopper.