by Katie Lane

Created on: October 04, 2008

It pains me to see so often women wearing coats that simply do not fit. Often times, women will try- in vain- to emulate catwalk trends that are simply not practical, nor do they flatter. But in a world today where so many people are misinformed about fashion, what can you do? It's hard to even begin to go and try to find a coat on your own with so many options out there. First, you have to start evaluating yourself.

Most things that people look over at the simpler things, such as hair colour. "Hair colour?" you're probably wondering. "What does my hair colour have to do with the coat I'm buying?" Actually, hair colour can have a profound effect on what sort of coat you should buy. Say, for example, you're a red-head or a brunette. These people tend to have more rich complexions, which are easy to make- velvet and tweed patterns tend to do well with their skin tone, as well as greens, browns, blues, and blacks. A variety of lighter colours tend to work for these people, too. But try putting a bright yellow coat on a blonde and you'll see the colour drain from her face. For blondes, a richer sort of colour works wonders- chocolate browns, berry reds, and dark purples are often the colours that need to be aimed for.

So now you have the perfect colour coat you want. But what about the fit? It's time for some honest evaluation of your body- there's no need to be ashamed. Are you tall, are you short? Do you have a pear shaped body or the ever-envied for hourglass? Putting some honest thought into these things will help you find your perfect coat.

For those who are tall: military-esque coats tend to work wonders, and a simple belt can help show off your torso, but not lengthen it. If you don't want the hassle of dragging around a long military coat, however, they make jackets in similar styles. Make sure the arm length is okay, though- taller people tend to be more proportioned, and if your wrists show, your coat doesn't fit!

For those who are short: a belt can be disastrous, because it tends to make your torso seem much shorter than it actually is. Longer coats, however, can create the appearance of a tall figure. But be careful- too long and your legs might just disappear! High-heeled boots can easily fix this problem.

For those who are slim: military coats and belts often show off your slim figure, but whatever you do, do NOT choose a coat that appears too big on you. You don't want to look like you were stuck in a potato bag, and the coat you get should fit,

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