Cold weather season is here which means jackets are back in rotation. From light to dark, short to long and bulky to slim, today’s jacket styles offer something for everyone. But finding a flattering one takes thoughtful selection given outerwear’s shapeless and oversized rectangular silhouette that often swallows the wearer whole. If your go-to winter jackets are due for a refresh, now is the time to hone in on design details that flatter your shape and maximize your coloring. Choose carefully using these top tips:

1. Contoured shapes
   We’ve gotten used to outerwear’s boxy and rectangular shapes, though there are more flattering options. Look for jackets with contoured liens that taper at the waist, simulating an hourglass shape. Consider hooded styles that repeat the hourglass, then pair with bootcut jeans to complete the head-to-to curvy shape.

2. Belted styles
   Belted styles work wonders to minimize bulk and accentuate curves. Look for safari jackets that cinch at the waist, puffer parkas with clasp belts or class wool jackets with sashes that tie. Regardless of style, consider tying belt in back for an open look that reduces fabric, tapers at the waist, slims and elongates.

3. Soft materials
   Despite leather being a winter fan favorite, consider suede. Softer, supple suede is less harsh against aging faces, delivering a more forgiving and flattering effect. Also consider jackets with sheepskin, shearling, fur or faux fur lining and trim for an added touch of cozy and femininity, or fringe for a style statement. Those gentle, tactile details better support features and will frame your face more delicately than leather.

4. Break from black
   Over time contrast lessens making our appearance more soft and less striking. Basic black can suddenly look overpowering and severe, which is an opportunity to reimagine more optimal and appropriate dark neutrals. Consider other hues like charcoal, camel and midnight blue, or universally flattering neutrals taupe, pewter or chocolate brown. Going lighter will make you look brighter, instead of the harsher effects of black.

5. Consider length
   For the most flattering line, opt for cropped or mid-thigh jacket lengths that keep the silhouette parsed in thirds — the ideal proportions most pleasing to the eye. Avoid jacket lengths that end around the hips, as they will halve the body and add bulk. Conversely, cropped jackets draw attention ot the natural waist and mid-thigh length jackets create an outside monochromatic color column that elongates. Length matters!

See BestLifeOnline.com press feature here.