I’m heading up north today and can’t wait for colder weather. It means I can finally wear a coat! Being petite, coats are often tricky for me. They can overwhelm my figure and make me look short and boxy. So I’m constantly trying out new ways to look taller and thinner in bulky coats. Here are my three tips for styling thicker coats:

1. Belt It

I generally look for coats that come with a wrap belt. But if they don’t, adding my own belt is a quick fix. If you’re belting your coat, make sure to go for a medium width belt. Anything too thin won’t cinch your waist. And anything too large will shorten your torso.

2. Go Slim Underneath

I like to keep it streamlined underneath, whether it’s with a bodycon sweater dress, leather leggings or skinny jeans. When I want the look of a chunky sweater, I go with a sleeveless turtleneck, like a did here.

3. Add a Pointed Toe

A pointed toe instantly elongates the figure. Here I went with this season’s popular sock bootie trend. But you could also do a pointed loafer or pointed flat boot.

Since my coat is sold out online, I rounded up some other plaid coat options. J. Crew is also doing a coat promotion in honor of Giving Tuesday. For every coat purchased they’re donating $10 to One Warm Coat so you can get warm and give warmth!

Shop Plaid Coats

Photos by Michelle Kyle

Coat: NVLT
Sweater: B Collection by Bobeau (similar)
Belt: vintage but similar here
Earrings: Gorjana
Jeans: Citizens of Humanity
Booties: Chrissy Teigen x Revolve
Nails: Essie “Fiji”