Fashion tip: Selecting the ideal jacket

An indispensable element for a chic wardrobe, a jacket should never be a random pick or borrowed from a friend’s closet. Achieving perfection requires aligning it with your personal style and body shape. Image consultant and host of the show "Nouveau look pour une Nouvelle vie" on M6, Christina Cordula, shares her insights, answering your queries and offering valuable fashion advice to help you steer clear of fashion faux pas and discover the perfect little jacket tailored just for you.

1 Identifying a Stylish Jacket

How can you spot a stylish jacket?

According to Christina Cordula, a stylish jacket is characterized by three key elements: its cut, quality buttons that complement the jacket's style, and, of course, its material. To steer clear of fashion blunders, opt for a timeless jacket—either straight or fitted, depending on your body shape. Choose wool for winter and cotton canvas for summer. Personally, I appreciate the straight jacket for its masculine, slightly retro vibe. A stylish jacket should feature a back slit, but be cautious—it shouldn't be gaping when worn.

2 Selecting the Right Jacket for Your Body Shape

Wondering how to choose the perfect jacket for your body type?

Christina Cordula advises tailoring your choice to enhance your natural features. For petite and slender women, opt for a short, fitted jacket that stops at the hip bone, avoiding styles that hide the buttocks. Tall individuals have the advantage of pulling off various styles. If you have broad shoulders, steer clear of shoulder pads to avoid a narrow appearance. An overcoat with a flared cut is ideal, camouflaging the width of the shoulders. Those with a large chest should consider an overcoat or a long, straight jacket worn open to avoid emphasizing the chest. If you have wide hips, choose a long, fitted jacket that falls below the buttocks to conceal the hips. Curvier women should wear open jackets and avoid short styles, opting for longer designs that elongate the silhouette. For those with larger arms, wearing longer sleeves, like those on sweaters or tunics, can be complemented by rolling up the sleeves slightly or getting them tailored for a perfect fit.

3 Choosing the Right Jacket Color

When it comes to colors, what should you prioritize?

According to Christina Cordula, black is always a safe choice, and timeless options include beige and off-white. Black wool or tweed jackets are winter essentials, while summer calls for cotton canvas and safari-style designs. If you're aiming for a dressy look, consider a black satin jacket or incorporate satin accents, although be mindful, as satin can add visual weight to your attire.

4 Styling Your Little Jacket

Wondering how to style your little jacket?

Christina Cordula suggests it pairs effortlessly with anything, adding an element of elegance and Parisian chic to your look. When paired with jeans, it exudes a city woman vibe. For a touch of glamour, wear it over a flowing dress. If you prefer a classic look, combine it with a straight skirt to achieve a sophisticated office-appropriate ensemble.

5 Fashion Tips for Jacket Accessories

When it comes to accessorizing your jacket, Christina Cordula emphasizes the importance of style and balance. Brooches are recommended for their femininity and trendiness—choose a dressy or fancy one based on your desired look. Adding a pretty scarf provides a polished finish to both your outfit and the jacket. Pay attention to the buttons; if they are bulky or prominent, avoid overloading them with other accessories. For a trendy touch, a long necklace complements both short and long jackets, but it's essential not to overwhelm the jacket with excessive jewelry. Cuffs are also a feminine option, particularly suitable for jackets without buttons at the bottom of the sleeves.

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