Because it’s basically like wearing a very large blanket outside and it’s wonderful…
Oversized is IN and I for one am over the moon about it. There is nothing better than feeling like your outfit is giving you a hug, so that’s why today I’m rounding up my favourites from the high-street, the high-end side of things and the buying tips that I’ve found useful when purchasing my oversized coat for the season. The best thing about them is that they are SO WARM so ultimately you might not have to layer up as much as you usually do underneath them. Whilst we were shooting these photos Mark was freezing his arse off and I was very warm and very smug, so finally it’s a practical purchase that my Mum can get behind…
THE HIGH-STREET EDIT
My top pick has to be the ARKET Belted Wool Coat* that comes in black and grey and is perfectly slightly oversized (I wear a 40), but because of the tie-waist can be nipped in too, which makes it a little more versatile than others. I’m very into the oatmeal shade of this & Other Stories Oversized Wool Coat*, although I’m sure I will spill something down it in approximately seven minutes, perhaps this Whistles Navy Lola Wool Mix Cocoon Coat* is better suited to my clumsy tendencies. Speaking of which, Whistles always do cracking coats and although I’m not usually wild about pattern, I do love this Gabriella Wool Check Coat* and because the pattern is so neutral it will easy enough to wear and pair. Finally for two truly oversized fits try this H&M Oversized Wool-Blend Coat* (I’m very into the greige shade), or this ASOS Design Oversized Hybrid Coat* (which is perhaps the best dupe of the Raey one I’ve mentioned below).
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THE HIGH-END EDIT
Sadly the Raey Wool-Blend Oversized Coat* never made it into the sale, but it truly is as lush as everyone says and I don’t think I’ve ever been as warm as when I’m in this coat. The only downsize is that it doesn’t have pockets (!!!), which my Mum is horrified about, but it is beautifully thick and I’ve worn it everyday since I go it. My only buying tip would be to size down (I wear a S). Ones that did make it into the sale include the Isabel Marant Étoile Limiza Oversized Wool-Blend Coat* which has the sort of fit that looks like you borrowed a coat off your Grandad – in a good way! – or the Co Oversized Double-Breasted Cotton Twill Coat* that would look absolutely cracking with an all black outfit underneath. Of course Toteme are just the QUEENS of the oversized look and I love their Black Signature Wool & Cashmere Blend Coat*, it’s just such a classic and their Checked Side-Slit Wool Coat*, which is a statement pattern, but once again in a neutral that makes it so effortless to wear.
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MY BUYING TIPS
Try on both sizes. If in doubt try to test out two sizes if possible. You might need to size up to get a true oversized fit, but that isn’t always the case, so if possible try on your usual size and the size above to achieve your desired fit.
Make sure you can layer. This probably won’t be a problem as you’re looking for the fit to be oversized anyway, but if you’re searching for a toasty winter coat then it’s always good practice to try it on with your chunkiest knit underneath to ensure that it’s practical.
Check the measurements. A few brands have measurements available for garments and I personally find them so, so helpful. Often picking between sizes is the matter of a centimetre or two, and in those cases I just size up. But it isn’t always, so if the information is there then use it to the best of your advantage to save multiple returns.
Search Instagram. I love searching Instagram to see how things look in real life and on different body shapes. Use the explore feature to search hashtags and if it’s an iconic piece from a brand then there’s a high chance you’ll find what you’re looking for. It really helps me to visualise the garment better. The same goes for YouTube, as seeing video helps even more.
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Photos by Mark Newton