In an exclusive interview with Express.co.uk, Gok Wan reveals that the coat is a “styling ace card when completing an outfit”.
Make sure every time you step out your front door that you look stylishly put-together by wearing the best coat for your body shape.
“Think of coat lengths as a styling ace card when completing an outfit,” said Gok. “So, when it comes to petite figures, a shorter coat or one that stops mid-thigh is perfect for creating an illusion of height without overwhelming your frame.
An example of a thigh-grazing coat is from Mango, the Double-breasted Wool Coat, currently priced at £99.99.
“Tall? Go big! Long, sweeping coats bring out that elegance in your height and can make a real statement.” Gok recommends taller ladies to lean towards coats that look like JD Williams’ Charcoal Classic Wool Blend Coat, £115.
Now you will have the length nailed down, the next step is in the details, Gok explains. “If you’ve got petite shoulders, go bold with a larger collar or a structured lapel – it adds volume and frames the face.”
A more slim-lined coat that doesn’t have too much detailing around the shoulders for broader-shouldered ladies is Karen Millen’s.
Gok recommends women with more narrow shoulders to go with styles such as JD Williams’ Navy Hybrid Bomber Longline Coat, £84.
“For broader shoulders, a simpler, more streamlined collar works beautifully, letting your natural structure shine without adding bulk.
“I am of the opinion women should work on complementing what they already have, without feeling the need to hide behind their clothes.”
As for complimenting your own body shape, “triangles” work best with a coat that has a belt to ” create some gorgeous definition”.
“Apples”, on the other hand, “look fantastic in coats that skim and flow, like A-line or wrap coats”. Gok said A-line cuts or wrap coats can create a shapely silhouette “without clinging” to any bits you’d rather not show off.
As for the colour of the coat, Gok advised: “Try on as many colours as possible and you decide which you feel great in. Instinct will always be your most accomplished stylist. Also, do not be afraid to mix your colour palette up.”
Gok Wan was recently announced as the brand ambassador for fashion brand JD Williams. With his extensive fashion background and expertise, Gok will collaborate closely with the brand to empower midlife women and redefine midlife fashion, emphasising this stage of life as a time for exploration rather than settling.