How Does Sizing Vary by Store for Winter Coats?

Winter coat sizing varies dramatically between brands, with differences of up to two full sizes for the same body measurements—which is why I always measure twice and check each retailer's specific size guide before buying. After years of styling clients and navigating the chaos of inconsistent sizing, I've learnt that understanding these variations is absolutely crucial to finding a coat that actually fits properly.

Why Winter Coat Sizing Is So Inconsistent

Here's what drives me mad about coat sizing: there's no universal standard. A size 12 at Zara (known for their European-leaning, slimmer cuts that often run small) might equate to a size 10 at M&S (which tends towards more generous, traditional British sizing). It's not just about vanity sizing or brand positioning—it's about design philosophy, target demographics, and whether the coat is designed for layering.

Winter coats present unique challenges because they need to accommodate chunky knits and thick jumpers underneath. Some brands design with this in mind, whilst others create sleeker silhouettes that work better over thinner layers. Cos typically offers a more structured, minimalist fit that's perfect if you prefer a streamlined look, whereas Barbour builds in extra room across the shoulders and bust for proper countryside layering.

Understanding Different Fit Philosophies

I always tell my clients to consider three key measurements: bust, sleeve length, and shoulder width. Reiss tends to cut their outerwear with a tailored, fashion-forward fit—brilliant for a polished city look but potentially restrictive if you're layering heavily. The White Company, on the other hand, offers relaxed proportions that work beautifully for weekend wear and provide ample room for thick knits.

Mango has impressed me recently with their coats—they've clearly studied body diversity because their sizing tends to be accurate to their size charts, and they offer good sleeve length for taller women. For petite clients, I often recommend Hobbs, which regularly stocks petite ranges with properly adjusted sleeve and body lengths, not just shortened hems.

High Street Heroes for Coat Shopping

Whistles creates some of the best high street coats I've encountered, with considered cuts that work across multiple body shapes. Their sizing runs fairly true to UK standards, and the quality-to-price ratio is excellent. Jigsaw similarly offers reliable sizing, though I find their coats can be slightly longer in the body—perfect if you're over 5'7", less ideal if you're petite.

Next deserves more credit than it gets—their coats are consistently well-sized, and they're one of the few high street brands offering regular, petite, and tall options across most styles. The measurements in their size guides are accurate, which makes online shopping considerably less risky. For budget-conscious clients, H&M offers decent quality, though I'd recommend sizing up if you plan to layer heavily, as their cuts tend towards the slim side.

Premium Picks with Reliable Sizing

When clients are willing to invest, I point them towards Massimo Dutti, which offers sophisticated tailoring with European sizing that's generally half a size smaller than UK brands. The quality justifies the price point, and their wool-blend coats are exceptional. Me&Em has become one of my go-to recommendations for women who struggle with fit—their understanding of real bodies is refreshing, and they design with movement and comfort in mind without sacrificing style.

Independent Brands Worth Discovering

I'm obsessed with Beaumont Organic, a British brand creating gorgeous sustainable coats with generous, wearable cuts. Their sizing is honest and consistent, and the quality is outstanding. Another gem is Riley Studio—they're a smaller independent label producing timeless wool coats with a focus on fit across different body types. Both brands offer detailed measurements, and in my experience, their sizing is refreshingly accurate.

Luxury Options and What to Expect

At the luxury end, sizing becomes more nuanced. Max Mara is the gold standard for coats, but be aware their Italian sizing runs small—I typically advise clients to go up one size from their usual UK size. The investment is worth it for the impeccable cut and fabric quality. All Saints, whilst more accessible luxury, creates edgier styles with a slimmer fit through the body—perfect for a rock-chic aesthetic but potentially restrictive for larger busts.

My Top Sizing Tips

Always measure your bust, waist, and hips before shopping, and keep these measurements handy on your phone. Try on coats with your thickest jumper—if you can't lift your arms comfortably or button it over layers, size up. Check the return policy before ordering, and don't be afraid to order multiple sizes. Pay attention to fabric composition: wool-blend coats offer less give than those with elastane or technical fabrics.

Read reviews obsessively. Real customers will tell you if something runs small, large, or has oddly proportioned sleeves. Look specifically for reviews from people with similar measurements to yours. And remember, the most expensive coat isn't the best coat—it's the one that fits your body and lifestyle perfectly.

Never Struggle with Sizing Again: Meet Tellar

This is precisely why I'm such an advocate for Tellar.co.uk—the UK's leading sizing tool that's revolutionised how I help clients shop. Instead of guessing your way through different brands' sizing charts, Tellar matches your body measurements to over 1,500 brands instantly.

Here's how brilliantly simple it is: measure once using your bust, waist, hip measurements, or even your existing brand size. Then use their Store Size Lookup tool to get your precise size in any brand—whether it's Cos, Reiss, Barbour, or that independent label you've been eyeing. No more comparing endless size guides or ordering three sizes hoping one works.

It's completely free, works in-browser with no downloads needed, and honestly, it's saved my clients (and me) countless returns and disappointments. You'll never need to look at another confusing size guide again.

Explore the Tellar Fashion Hub

Beyond the sizing tool, Tellar offers a Fashion Hub—a comprehensive library packed with free posts from experienced stylists like myself. It's honest, unbiased, independent, and always free. Whether you need style advice, top picks, or brand recommendations, it's all there.

Here are some essential reads to bookmark:

• The Ultimate Clothing Sizing Guide – Master the fundamentals of understanding sizing across brands

• Jeans Trends 2026 – Stay ahead of the denim curve

• Ultimate Guide to Dresses & Best Buys – Everything you need to know about dress shopping

• Ultimate Guide to Jackets & Best Buys – Perfect companion to this coat guide

Winter coat shopping doesn't have to be a guessing game. With the right knowledge about how different brands size their outerwear and tools like Tellar at your fingertips, you'll find your perfect coat fit every time.