Q&A for How to Size an Overcoat

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Should you buy a coat a size bigger?

Paul Julch, MA
Personal Wardrobe Stylist & Speaker
Paul Julch is a Personal Wardrobe Stylist, Speaker, and the founder of Urbanite | Suburbanite, a wardrobe styling business in the San Francisco Bay Area. With over 25 years in the fashion industry, Paul works with clients to make getting dressed easier, less time consuming, and more enjoyable. Paul has years of experience in retail visual merchandising - styling windows, displays, and floor sets for Banana Republic, Gap, and Express. He also has experience styling fashion photo shoots and corporate videos. Paul holds a BS Degree in Management from State University of New York at Binghamton, an MA in Clinical Psychology from Long Island University. He also studied Interior Design at the University of California, Berkeley.

Paul Julch, MA

Personal Wardrobe Stylist & Speaker

Expert Answer

If you're going to wear an overcoat over heavy layers like a blazer, you'll need extra room. However, to avoid looking like you're wearing someone else's clothes, make sure the coat fits you well in the sleeves and shoulders.

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Question

I wear a 42S suit size. What overcoat size should I buy?

Community Answer

The same: either a 42S or 42R. Most overcoats are pre-measured to fit over a suit, so shop for the same size you normally wear.

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Question

I wear a size 42 regular in suit coats and 36 in pants, what size overcoat would I need?

Community Answer

You would likely need a large or XL depending on the brand's cut, etc. I would suggest trying the clothes on or ordering from a provider who allows free returns.

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Question

How do I know what size trenchcoat I need?

Community Answer

Read the very thorough instructions above. If you're a man, you would need to shop for the same size trench coat as your normal suit jacket size, because trench coats are sized to fit over the man's suit. It's a good idea to wear a suit coat or a sports coat when you are trying on prospective trench coats at the store. If the trench coat you're looking at only comes in sizes like S, M, L, XL, then you can start by matching to the normal coat size you regularly wear, and just size up if it doesn't seem to fit over your suit coat or sports coat. Obviously, if you never plan to wear your trench coat over a business suit, you should just match to your normal coat size or its numeric equivalent.

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