How to choose the proper fur coat size
.Let’s find out together all that small details and secrets that you need to know in order to choose the proper fur coat size
That fluffy texture is tricky! Even if you are 100% sure for the size of your winter coat, are you sure that a real fur coat of the same size will fit you? Picking the right size is essential for any garment if you want to look good and of course to feel comfortable while wearing it. This applies to the oversized trend as well. But when it comes to real fur coat, you have to be careful since fur coats are meant to fit differently than other coats. If you already are a real fur owner, you probably know what to pay attention at. If you are heading for some fur shopping for the first time, this real fur coat size guide will be helpful in case you haven’t thought about or were wondering how to choose the proper fur coat size.
Think about all the different styles of winter coats: there are the fit and flare coats, the oversized and cocoon coats, the boyfriend style, the belted coats, the a-line and more but you also have different types like parkas, capes, trench coats, teddy bear coats, texture coats etc. All of them fit differently and there are chances you are wearing different sizes according to the style and type of the garment. For example, you might end up with an M for a wrap coat even if you are an S in order to be able to wear it loose, with knitwear or style it as an oversized. A slightly loose fitting winter coat is a good choice but not for fur garments.
How to choose the proper fur coat size to look fashionable?
Nowadays fur coats follow the general fashion trends for each season which means you’re likely to fall for a boyfriend style or a belted fit and flare fur coat. Unlike the fabric coats, which can fit loose or snug or tight depending on your preference, the proper fit for fur coats is snugly. Due to the fluffy texture, only a fur coat fitting snugly and “sitting” right on your body will give you the fashionable look you are going for. And this applies to all types and styles, which means that a real fur boyfriend style coat should be fitting you well on the shoulders without being oversized, a wrap fur coat should be fitting you well on shoulders and waist, an a-line fur coat should be fitting you well on the chest.
How to choose the proper fur coat size to be comfortable?
The second and most important reason to carefully determine the proper fur coat size for you is comfort. You might feel super comfortable in an oversized teddy bear coat but this won’t work for a real fur coat. Most of the real fur coats, especially the long or the thick ones, are heavier than your typical winter coat which can result to difficulty in movement. An ill-fitting fur coat will be uncomfortable and non functional. Plus, keep in mind that apart from the disadvantages of a larger size, the disadvantages of a smaller size are quite serious: a tight fur coat will lead to fur damage or seam break due to pressure.
Tips to choose the proper fur coat size for you
Measurement is the best way to determine if a fur coat fits properly or if it will end up too large or too small. It’s important to take these steps before you run out to buy a fur coat, so here is how to measure yourself to determine the right size.
- Measure your body
First thing to do is to measure your own body. It’s very important to know your exact measurements, especially if you’re planning to buy a fur online. You need to measure the sleeve, the bust or chest, the waist, the back and shoulder while if you are planning to buy a long garment, measure the hips as well.
The bust or chest, the waist, the back and shoulder measurements are very important and should be precise while measurements like arm length can be slightly long. The arms of a coat can be easily hemmed if too long, but the shoulder and waist measurements cannot be easily altered since this would require the dismantle of the whole garment.
Compare those to the measurements of the fur that you’re interested in. Don’t hesitate to contact the company if fur measurements are not provided. Sucking in your stomach or sticking out your chest is not how you should measure in order to choose the proper fur coat size. Act normally because as said before, a fur coat has to fit you properly and make you feel comfortable. Otherwise it won’t be functional and will result to a total loss of money instead of a good investment.
- Take the measurements of a coat that fits well
Step two on “How to choose the proper fur coat size” includes your favourite coat. The coat you are currently wearing and that fits you well can be a good guide! You can either wear it or place it on a flat surface, then measure it. For both options, the garment has to be closed (completely buttoned or zipped). Here you need to measure again sleeve, bust or chest, waist, shoulder width (shoulder to shoulder). If you are planning to buy a long garment, measure the hips and length. Use these measurements as a guide when checking the available sizes of the fur coat you liked. Don’t be surprised if the measurements correspond to a different size than your coat’s.
*Keep in mind any abnormalities such as long arms for your height, high waist, broad shoulders or bust size. Pay great attention to those, especially when you are purchasing a fur coat you are unable to try on. If you have special requirements, contact the company and ask for a tailor made fur coat. Normally it won’t cost more than the model you liked. This premices that you are referring to a professional furrier and not a fur merchant.
- Wear the fur coat, if possible
If you have the chance to try on the fur coat before purchase, do it. Taking the time to try on the fur coat will ensure you end up satisfied with your purchase. Again, sucking in your stomach or sticking out your chest is not recommended while trying furs. Also do not try to change your posture or the way you walk. While trying them on, move around and make sure that all movement is easy and unobstructed.
If the measurements fall between two different sizes, choose according to the use that the fur coat is intended for. In case you’re planning to wear it as your everyday winter coat, choose the larger size in order to be able to wear it with bulky clothing like knit. Choose the smaller size for better fit if the fur coat is intended for special occasions and nights out.
How to measure to find out the proper fur coat size
Unless you’re a tailor, you probably don’t know how to measure to find out the proper fur coat size. Knowing how to measure yourself or a coat will ensure you get a coat that fits you appropriately. So keep on reading, it’s easier than you think – all you need is a tape measure and … your body! But for some measurements you might need some help as well.
Sleeve
To measure the sleeves’ length, start from the neckline and run the tape measure all the way to your wrist. Place your hand at your waist (your elbow should be bent at a 90-degree angle). Then start at the middle of the back of your neck and measure to your shoulder, down your arm to the elbow, and then on to the wrist.
Chest / Bust
To ensure the fur coat you buy will fit properly on chest / bust, measure at the largest point. The fur coat should not feel tight at this point. In order to ensure you get the right results, take this measurement more than once. Measure your chest’s circumference by placing the tape measure end at the fullest part of your bust. Then wrap it around (under your armpits, around your shoulder blades, and back to the front) to get the measurement.
Waist
Your waist is the narrowest part of your torso and it is often located at or above your belly button. Use your fingers to find the end of you rib cage. Your waist is the soft, fleshy section right right below the rib cage. To measure, wrap the tape measure around – it should fit snugly without digging into your skin.
Back
Back width is different from shoulder width. In order to measure your back, you will need some help from another person. He/She has to measure across your back at the underarm level but not including your arms.
Shoulder width (shoulder to shoulder)
You’ll need another person to measure your back from one shoulder to the other. For this measurement you can use any shirt that fits correctly in the shoulder area. The shoulder seams on the back of your shirt will usually match up with your actual shoulder points. The person helping should measure up and over the curve of your shoulders, across your back. The tape measure won’t be horizontally straight during this measurement, it must bend at a gentle curve along with your shoulders.
Hips
Start at one hip and wrap the tape measure around your rear, around the other hip, and back to where you started. Make sure the tape is over the largest part of your buttocks.
Length
When measuring the length of a fur coat, measure from base of the neck to the bottom of the hem. If the coat has a collar on it, you will not measure the collar.
Keep on reading – “How to care for a real fur coat“