The Best Coats for Petite Women
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Hello, my name is Karina and I am short. Five feet short to be exact and if you’re a fellow petite woman, firstly, “Hi, glad you’re here!” and secondly of all you know how tough it is to purchase clothing that fits. Therefore, read on for the Best Coats for Petite Women.
Thus, the reason I am searching for the perfect petite coat is that my family is taking a trip to Cambria, CA and the weather in this coastal town in California is COLD. They had unprecedented snow just a couple of days ago! So being a California girl, I had to purchase a warm, winter coat! I ordered 3 coats by L.L. Bean and two coats from Obermeyer from Zappos, 2 coats from Free People, and one coat from Athleta. Happily, I tried all of them on, some were great some were just plain awful on me. Read on for a completely honest review of each coat and find out which one(s) I kept and which I returned.
The Seven Contenders for Best Petite Size Coat
I am five feet tall and weigh 135 lbs. I have a short torso, long legs, and a 34DD bust. The 3 coats by L.L. Bean I purchased on Zappos.com were size, Small Petite. The two Obermeyer coats were the same coat in 2 different colors, one was black and the other grey. The black coat was a size US 6 Petite and the grey coat was a US size 8 Petite. The two coats from Free People were size Large Regular (these didn’t come in Petite sizes). I actually ordered 2 versions of the All Prepped Ski Jacket one in Aqua Haze and the other in Neon Pink (both size L – Large). The Athleta jacket was somewhat of an impulse buy because it was inexpensive (but also a final sale). It was a size, Small Petite. At any rate, let the Petite Girl Fashion Show begin…
L.L.Bean Petite Ultralight 850 Down Jacket
This jacket is one that L.L. Bean brings back season after season in different colorways. Hence, it’s one of the most versatile, all-season jackets out there. The color I chose was Ocean Blue and it was beautiful. This ultralight 850 down jacket is full of high-quality goose feathers.
The Details and Features
The length hits at the hip. Fitted style with flattering seams at the side that give you a cute hourglass figure. The placement of the puffs is strategic to ensure a flattering, shape-enhancing look. The raglan sleeves are flattering and allow for easier movement.
Full Vislon® zipper closure front with a zipper that matches the color of the jacket. This jacket has a collar and no hood.
Elastic at the cuffs. Cinch this jacket with the hemline drawcord to keep drafts / wind out and keep you warm.
Although I don’t see myself using that feature it’s a clever design and changes the look of the jacket.
Also, there are several pockets including 2 zipper-closure pockets at the hips. L.L. Bean branded zippers with bungee cord pulls. The interior of the jacket boasts 2 pockets.
A zipper closure pocket on the inside at the right, near the top of the jacket, and a large pocket on the left-hand side near the bottom of the jacket.
Outfit Details: L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 Jacket in Ocean Blue (SOLD OUT – Similar Styles Here), Free People Fireside Slouchy Beanie in Wine (OS), Alo Warm Airbrush High-Waist Nocture Leggings in Black (size S regular), Golden Goose Midstar Sneakers (SOLD OUT – Similar styles here)
Basic Technical Specs
Trying to be more environmentally friendly, L.L. Bean has produced this jacket with a minimum of 20% recycled polyester. Additionally, the Pretex Quantum nylon shell is windproof, water resistant, and created out of 100% recycled fabric.
DownTek PFC- Free Down is the loftiest and more advanced goose-down fill. This special process of treating down makes it 50% more water-resistant while preserving the lightweight and warm nature of goose down. As a matter of fact, the 850-fill-power goose down is one of the highest quality available for the price on the market. Hence, this jacket is recommended for temperatures between 25 and -25 degrees Fahrenheit depending on the level of activity. Wear this jacket with midweight layers such as thermal, waffle, or lightweight tops and sweaters for optimal comfort in the cold.
The Measurements
Please note that measurements may vary by size. In this case, the size Small Petite measurements are as follows: length: 27 in, sleeve length: 32 in. Ultra-lightweight construction that will keep you warm. Surprisingly compact and packable ideal for travel as it folds into its own stowaway pocket.
Final Thoughts on the L.L. Bean Petite Ultralight 850 Down Jacket
Overall, I really loved the blue color. The jacket had a slight fit and flare silhouette which is super flattering. The fabrication was high quality, it didn’t have too much of that annoying nylon “swoosh” sound when in motion.
The weight of the jacket was optimal and I really appreciated the fact that it was ultra lightweight and did not take up a lot of room when hung up in the closet or packed up in a bag/suitcase. Consequently, I ended up returning this particular jacket because of three main reasons:
- I already own a short and more fitted jacket (from Zara) that is basic black and fits beautifully.
- I just naturally prefer a hood on my jackets because I have a short neck the collar makes me look like I do not have a neck at all!
- Even though the other LL Bean jackets I purchased were a size small petite, this one, in particular, felt a little too small and I would have preferred a size medium petite.
Finally, I wanted to quickly share these wooden coat hangers that I just discovered and I am hooked! My old jackets used to get these annoying “wings” on the shoulders from thin hangers, but no longer is that the case! These hangers changed my life and increased the longevity of my jackets. Undoubtedly, I highly recommend these when you purchase your new jacket.
Still Undecided? Read More About the L.L. Bean Petite Ultralight 850 Down Jacket.
L.L.Bean Petite Ultralight 850 Down Hooded Coat
One of L.L. Bean’s best-selling, most popular coats and it is no surprise why. This coat fits exquisitely, it seriously looks like it was custom-made for me! Very impressed especially since the price is great! Shop around but you can definitely purchase this style for less than retail especially if you are not too picky about the color.
This lightweight coat comes in many many colors, most are available in petite sizes as well as regular and plus sizes. The black plum color was the definite winner for me! It is a gorgeous burgundy wine color that flatters any complexion.
The length of this coat is really flattering above the knee so it covers the bum for extra warmth. Lastly, the waistline is slightly fitted and the seams on the puffs reflect a beautiful hourglass silhouette.
The Details and Features
Exterior Details and Features
The L.L. Bean Petite Ultralight 850 Down Hooded Coat features a full-length Vislon zipper at the front. Vislon zippers are resin and are as durable as metal zippers but infinitely more lightweight and can be dyed to match any color. According to many reviews of L.L. Bean coats with Vislon zippers, they are much smoother and glide easier than their metal counterparts.
The quilts and seams are strategically placed at angles that flatter the body. The curved design of the side panels enhances your shape while hiding any imperfections. It is slightly fitted and hugs the body in all the right places for the best fit for petite figures.
The raglan-style sleeves are more flattering than a set-in sleeve. Raglan sleeves give more room for an easier and wider range of movement. Elastic at the wrist to keep the cold out (or help hold your gloves in place).
2 zipper closure pockets at the hips, these are pretty big in size and will fit even a large cell phone!
Interior Details and Features
Interestingly, the exterior and interior colors do not match. The interior is a beautiful silver-grey color, a stark contrast to the burgundy exterior.
For extra convenience, the coat comes with its own, attached stowaway pocket pouch on the inside of the jacket. Just look for the interior pocket that says “STOW” on the zipper.
When not using the pocket to store the coat, the STOW pocket can be used to store valuables because it has a zipper. The pocket on the other side of the interior is a tightly woven mesh pocket with a top opening.
Exterior and Interior Fabric Content Details
The Ultralight 850 Down is an advanced down fill called “DownTek“. This improved down is PFC-free. Perfluorochemicals (PFCs) are a group of chemicals that are used for coating products to resist heat, stains, water, grease, etc. The new DownTek stays dry 50% longer than the original DownTek. Amazingly, this lofty down is fast drying if you’re caught in the rain. The premium 850-fill-power goose down is still very fluffy and lightweight making it easy to store and pack up for hikes and trips. 850-fill-power is one of the highest quality available on the market, especially for the price.
The exterior shell is created from the ultra-durable, windproof, and water-resistant Pertex Quantum.
Sizing, Care, and Comfort Rating for the L.L. Bean Petite Ultralight 850 Down Hooded Coat
This coat is durable and easy to care for because it is machine washable. To keep the coat looking its best for many years (and wash cycles) pre-treat stains with Dawn dish soap or Zote laundry soap, then wash in cool or cold water (about 40-80 degrees Fahrenheit) and skip the spin cycle. Instead, dry the coat in the dryer on lower heat.
If you are lucky enough to have space to dry your laundry outside or in a dedicated laundry area, set the washer to a low spin cycle and then use a clothes drying rack to air dry the coat. Air drying will increase the longevity of your outerwear and all your clothing items.
Wimpy, thin hangers just won’t work with heavy coats. Remember to grab some heavy-duty coat hangers. There are many options including aromatic cedar (which is a renewable resource). Some of the premium coat hangers have a trouser bar. As always, there are many options available at various price points on Amazon.com. Check out the difference between a regular wooden hanger and one designed specifically for heavy-duty clothing items. No more indentations on the shoulders and no more broken hangers.
The comfort rating of this down coat is +30 degrees Fahrenheit with light activity such as a slow walk and -20 degrees Fahrenheit with moderate activity such as a brisk walk that raises your heart rate.
Measurements of the size Small Petite
All measurements were taken with the coat lying flat. The bust, measured armpit to armpit, is approximately 19 inches (48.26 cm). The waist, measured at the narrowest part of the coat is approximately 19 inches (48.26 cm). The hip area, measured at the widest part of the coat is approximately 20.25 inches (51.44 cm). The sleeve length, measured from the armpit to the wrist is about 18.5 inches (46.99 cm). The total length, measured from the shoulder to the hemline is approximately 32 inches (81.28 cm). This coat is semi-fitted and very flattering, it has almost no stretch to it.
The L.L. Bean Petite Ultralight 850 Down Coat was a KEEPER!
This coat was a winner the minute I put it on! The fit is impeccable and I feel fabulous in it! It gives me shape and doesn’t overwhelm my 5-foot frame. The length hits just at the right spot at the thigh.
The “wine” color is so beautiful and a nice change to the typical black winter coat color that everyone goes for. Highly recommend it for a light winter or colder winter with some sweaters as layers.
Read more about this coat in my detailed blog post here.
L.L.Bean Petite Mountain Classic Down Parka
This L.L. Bean jacket is one of the best value-for-quality options that LL Bean offers.
This coat is filled 650-fill DownTek down and encapsulated in 100% recycled polyester. Stay extra warm, dry, and cozy from hood to hem.
What is DownTek?
Down is the best insulator for clothing ever created…..until it gets wet. The pockets of trapped air in down keep you warm but when they get wet, these air pockets deflate and *poof* goes the warmth. Rain, snow, and sweat are down’s biggest “down”-fall (pun intended). This down is made with animal welfare in mind, it is tracked down from source to final product, and is Responsible Down Standard (RDS) certified.
Air pockets on the down clusters of DownTek do not collapse. The down water repellent (DWR) treatment creates surface tension on the filaments of the down clusters that forces the moisture molecules to bead up and roll off the down, leaving each cluster moisture-free to continue trapping warm air, thereby maintaining the ability to insulate even when exposed to water.
DownTek water repellent down uses a clean chemistry C6 short-chain carbon. It is non-hazardous and non-toxic. DownTek is PFOA and PFOS-free.
For more, very detailed information, here is the DownTEK Fact Sheet.
The Details and Features
If you need more color in the dreary wintertime, opt for a coat that’s more exciting than the predictable black, like this burgundy one. The fluffy quilts are slightly larger and puffier. The parka is thicker than the L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 Down Coat and it’s slightly less fitted but it is still flattering to the figure even if you are petite and curvy.
Exterior Details and Features
The high, stand-up collar protects the neck from cold.
The thick, down-filled hood features drawcords to cinch in place and it is fully removable via metal snaps in the back.
L.L. Bean designed this parka with double nylon overlays to reinforce the shoulders. Because this jacket has the set-in sleeve style, as opposed to a raglan style, the extra seam support is a practical addition. Check out the L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 Down collection if you are looking for the raglan-style sleeve.
Continuing down the sleeve, this coat features elastic at the wrists but wait, there’s more, the elastic partners up with a snap button closure.
The shape of this parka is less form-fitting than other L.L. Bean styles but it does have figure-enhancing seams and quilts.
The “belt” shaped quilting at the waist does wonders for your figure!
Shhh…. there’s also a secret bungee cord on the inside that can be used to cinch the waist, more on that later.
There’s nothing worse than having a coat or jacket that does NOT have pockets… yes those DO exist! This coat’s pockets are one of the distinguishing features because there are two sections to the hip pockets.
On the exterior, there is a golden snap button but reach inside and you will find that the snap pockets also feature a hidden zipper closure portion.
The other portion of this jacket that features snap AND zipper closure is the front.
The all-metal zipper and metal storm flap snap buttons, with “L.L. Bean” embossing, line the entire length of the parka.
The zipper has a bungee chord attached.
It is fitting that this Mountain “Classic” parka features the “classic” L.L. Bean Mt. Katahdin patch logo.
The L.L. Bean Mountain Classic Range
The “Mountain” line at L.L. Bean is their good quality, low-price line with this parka along with other coats, jackets, vests, shoes, and accessories for women, men, children, and pets (yes, pets).
Interior Details and Features
L.L. Bean’s best value down parka is definitely not cheap or lower grade than its pricier counterparts. The quality is impeccable and the practical features make it a great basic go-to winter coat. The most important feature is that this Mountain Classic parka is packed with extra warm, water-repelling 650-fill DownTek from hood to hem!
The interior fabric is made out of recycled polyester and it is superior at keeping water and cold out. The lining of this coat is a beautiful silver-grey color with the faded L.L. Bean mountain logo throughout.
A hanging loop made out of the same bungee that the zipper pulls and cinch cords are made out of can be used to hang the coat on a hook or coat rack when a hanger isn’t available.
The sizing and other information are printed on the interior of the coat so there are no pesky tags to irritate.
The left portion of the coat features an interior zipper closure pocket near the chest area. The pocket is a nice size to store a phone, card holder, tissues, or earbuds.
Finally, there is a hidden interior adjustable drawcord belt to cinch for that extra hourglass figure.
Since the coat does not have any stretch to it, using this “belt” can really give a more flattering look or be let out if you’re wearing a lot of bulky layers.
Sizing, Comfort Rating, and Care for the L.L. Bean Petite Mountain Classic Down Parka
Size Small Petite Sizing Info and Measurements
The size I opted for was Small Petite and it fits really beautifully. As a reference I am 5’0″ tall and weigh about 135 lbs, I have a short torso and long legs, and a 34DD bust. I could have probably sized up to a size Medium Petite and it would still fit well. If you live in a cooler climate (I am in California), sizing up might be a good idea so you can layer with thick sweaters and hoodies for extra warmth. The sleeve length is especially petite friendly and it’s pretty similar between a size small petite or medium petite. Exact measurements of this parka coming soon, please check back!
LL Bean Mountain Classic Parka Wearability and Comfort Rating
This L.L. Bean Parka is the epitome of what a classic parka looks like and what purpose it serves in cold, winter weather. The 650-fill DownTEK down is a great insulator that will keep you warm even when the weather is snowy or rainy. Parkas rated 500 or more fill power are appropriate for winter so this one fits the bill perfectly and is budget-friendly. The feel of this jacket is much bulkier than the L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 Down Coat and Jacket. But, it is still very wearable, comfortable, and most importantly, warm.
I wore this jacket with a long-sleeved thermal shirt (from Michael Stars) on a dreary, misty day in March in Cambria, CA. The temperature was about 46-48 degrees Fahrenheit (7-9 degrees Celsius) with wind, clouds, and light rain. We definitely didn’t pick the right time to go on vacation! LOL.
I was really toasty the length of the jacket is really great to keep you warm, the high collar and plush insulation fight the rough, ocean wind. The poly shell is nice to the touch and not very “swishy” and will keep light to medium rain (and snow) from absorbing. Overall, I loved having this jacket for cold California weather. Wearing this coat made me feel cute and comfortable and it was definitely keeping me warm while walking around Cambria, CA. I got warm whilst hiking in this coat so I had to unzip the front. If you are planning on wearing this coat while hiking in 45 or so degrees Fahrenheit you could probably wear a thin long-sleeve tee or a short-sleeve tee and be comfortable. I should mention I was also wearing Athleta insulated leggings, Pact organic cotton socks, and a Free People slouchy beanie hat so I was super toasty!
Caring for your L.L. Bean Mountain Classic Parka
Keeping the L.L. Bean Mountain Classic Parka looking nice and clean is easy! Everything is machine washable and machine dryable! Personally, I tumble this coat in cool air for a little bit then I hang it up to finish drying on a dry rack (inside or outside – weather permitting). This coat dries VERY fast! Not as fast as the L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 Down Coat but pretty fast nonetheless. I find that air drying extends the life of my clothing items and keeps the colors vibrant and helps hold their original shape better. Plus this way I save on electricity costs too!
Chemical-Free Detergent That Actually Works
Since becoming a mother, I have searched for detergents that are free of chemicals AND also get clothes clean and smelling nice! I have tried so many but Dropps has really blown me away. I have extremely sensitive skin and allergies and Dropps hasn’t irritated my skin or my son’s sensitive skin. Most “safe” detergents have wonderful ingredients but they do not WORK. Dropps has been the best at actually getting clothing clean and even removing stubborn stains (that always creep up on kids’ clothing).
If you follow this link, you can get 30% OFF your 1st purchase of Dropps, so give this company a try. They truly stand behind their products and offer a 30-day risk-free trial period. Try their products and if you are not 100% happy they will refund you, no questions asked.
Here is that 30% OFF your 1st Dropps order link again: https://share.dropps.com/karinamazurhicks
And if you are a former Dropps customer, check their website often, they provide coupon codes and discounts ALL the time! They also throw in freebies with your order many times. Finally, you can even subscribe and save a little extra.
Invest in Wooden Coat Hangers
Another quick tip to keep your coats looking good and keeping their shape is to invest in good, quality, coat hangers.
Say goodbye to unsightly shoulder creases with these high-quality, affordable, wooden coat hangers. They come in dark walnut color, natural light wood color, and even cedar!
Check out this photo that shows a regular, wimpy hanger versus the heavy-duty coat hanger. No contest!
The L.L. Bean Petite Mountain Classic Down Parka was a KEEPER!
Truth be told, I may be addicted to this maroon wine color. So it is no surprise that I kept this jacket. Not sure I need 2 very similar, same-color jackets from the same brand in my closet. But alas, I kept this one and the L.L. Bean Ultralight 850 Down Coat in a very similar color.
If this coat cost the same last Ultralight 850 Down Coat, I would probably pick the Ultralight 850, hands down. But this parka cost just about $100 less than the Ultralight 850 Hooded Coat so I decided to keep both because the price was REALLY good (and I even bought this at full price). Please note this price is from 2022 and can fluctuate as the years go by. Check the current price by visiting the official L.L. Bean website.
This coat is also very flattering and as a petite woman, it’s tough to find well-fitting parkas. Especially for me, I have a short neck and many coats have such high necklines that I drown in them. The sleeve length is also a problem many times and this coat’s sleeves are PERFECT. So, I kept this one because it truly made me feel good wearing it. And, just between you and me, I am not a fan of plain black coats…so boring!
This coat checks all the important checkboxes. The color is absolutely stunning, the cut and puffer style is forever a classic, it keeps you warm and toasty AND the price is totally reasonable. Highly recommended!
L.L. Bean’s Sustainability Efforts
L.L. Beans’ commitment to high-quality products makes them last longer so fewer end up in landfills. Most L.L. Bean coats and jackets are produced with at least 20% of recycled materials. The company’s goal is to eliminate the use of PFAS (forever chemicals) by 2024. 100% of all down used in their products is responsibly farmed. They have updated their corporate offices and flagship store to utilize environmentally friendly products such as electric car chargers. Much much more to come from L.L. Bean as they strive to provide long-lasting products produced with sustainable methods, and fair employment practices and created from recycled materials.
Obermeyer Petite Tuscany II Jacket in Grey and Black
I have never heard of Obermeyer and found them while searching for “Petite Winter Coats” on Zappos.com.
I ended up purchasing the grey version and the black version in different sizes to see which one worked better, even though I do not like black coats I really liked the shape and short silhouette of the Tuscany II style. If you purchase a little bit before winter, there are many color options available! Including prints, color block combinations, and neutral and vibrant solid colors.
The other factor I took into consideration when purchasing this jacket without knowing much about this brand, is that the Tuscany jacket is one of Obermeyer’s core styles which comes back season after season. This leads me to believe it is classic and timeless and will not be out of style for many winter seasons to come.
Where to Buy the Obermeyer PETITE Size Winter Coats and Jackets:
Buy New and second-hand on eBay
Athleta Whisper Featherless Jacket
Check Back Soon For This Review!
Free People FP Movement All Prepped Ski Jacket
Don’t miss out on this review (it’s good). Check Back Soon for details.
Free People FP Movement Lift Love Jacket
This jacket was NOT a hit, check back soon for details and an in-depth review. (with photos and videos)
Use Rakuten to get Cash Back for FREE!
Bonus tip: Undoubtedly, Install RAKUTEN on your browser to get cash back on your purchases! It’s FREE and easy to sign up for. For example, when I purchased these coats on Zappos, I got 8% cash back on them. Rakuten costs you nothing and you’ll get a “big fat check” once every few months with all the cash back you accrue.
Looking for other reviews for Women’s or Kids’ Fashion, accessories, toys, and gear? Additionally, check out the other sections of my blog and feel free to leave a comment or contact me on social media under @MalibuKarina everywhere including Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and LinkedIn (I’m everywhere).
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GoDaddy.com – Affordable web hosting for beginning bloggers using WordPress.org.
Canva – Graphic design website for all social media from blogs to Pinterest to Instagram.
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