The winter coat season is a golden opportunity for many fashion retailers, especially for plus-size outerwear. Each year, millions of shoppers search for the perfect coat that protects them from the cold, enhances their style, and reflects their personality. For plus-size consumers, this search can be especially challenging.
The demand for winter coats that combine fashion, warmth, and a flattering fit has never been higher, yet options that truly cater to plus-size bodies are still far from abundant. As more shoppers prioritize style and comfort in equal measure, the opportunity to offer plus-size coats that deliver on both is now essential to a successful plus-size winter collection.
This guide to the seven standout plus-size coat styles for winter 2024/2025 dives into the specific designs shoppers are searching for. Each style combines warmth, personality, and thoughtful detailing, promising to make an in-store and online impression.
Table of Contents
Is the plus-size clothing market still profitable?
5 plus-size winter coats to add to new arrivals
Rounding up
Is the plus-size clothing market still profitable?
The plus-size winter coat market is rapidly growing, driven by increasing demand for stylish, inclusive, and functional outerwear. The global plus-size clothing market was valued at USD 311.44 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a 4.1% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2024 to 2030, according to Grand View Research.
In the US, more than 60% of women wear a size 14 or larger, underscoring the high demand for plus-size fashion. In the UK, plus size is defined as sizes above 18, representing about 67% of women. These figures present a significant growth opportunity for retailers to expand their plus-size offerings as the market continues to show strong potential for growth.
5 plus-size winter coats to add to new arrivals
1. Classic wool trench
This winter plus-size coat delivers a timeless look with just enough structure to add elegance to any outfit—even for plus-sized consumers. Wool trenches strike the perfect balance between warmth and shape, offering a classic, flattering cut with a belt to define the waist, which many plus-sized women love.
Additionally, wool is naturally insulating, and since these coats don’t add bulk, they’re an easy sell to plus-sized shoppers looking for an everyday staple with a professional vibe. More importantly, this coat is made for layering, so plus-sized customers can pair it with everything from fitted workday blazers to chunky scarves and knit sweaters for a weekend look.
This winter coat is versatile enough to wear with jeans, leggings, or even dresses, making it a go-to piece for all winter occasions. According to Google data, searches for wool trench coats reached 27,100 in October 2024 and will see even more demand during the winter months—similar to last year’s peak of 40,500 searches in December.
2. Faux-fur lined parka
Faux-fur-lined parkas are undeniably warm and cozy, perfect for bitterly cold days when only the softest lining will do. Parkas are the definition of practical, but when they come with that soft faux-fur lining, they become a bit more luxe.
Plus, many designs include an adjustable waist, letting customers customize their fit—a huge bonus for plus-sized shoppers who want a flattering look that doesn’t feel restrictive. Parkas are a natural match for denim, sweaters, and winter boots. Plus-sized women can pair them with knee-high or tall snow boots for snowy days.
Adding a scarf or gloves that complement the parka’s faux-fur trim can also transform the look from practical to polished. Like other winter coats, faux-fur-lined parkas received the most attention last winter, reaching 3,600 and 2,900 searches in December 2023 and January 2024, respectively.
3. Statement cape coat
When it comes to turning heads, nothing does the job like a cape coat. These winter coats bring a touch of drama, mixing vintage vibes with a thoroughly modern edge. Cape coats work beautifully with plus-sized figures because they offer shape and movement without clinging to the body.
Additionally, they’re easy to layer and add that statement look to any winter wardrobe, letting the wearer feel like they’re making a grand entrance with every step. A cape coat shines best over slim silhouettes, which include tailored pants, turtlenecks, and heeled boots.
Plus-sized consumers can pair it with dark denim and statement jewelry for an evening out or holiday gathering, creating an elegant, streamlined look. Cape coats are already gaining increased attention ahead of the winter months, reaching 27,100 searches in October 2024—though they reached 33,100 searches in December 2023 and January 2024.
4. Sherpa-lined denim jacket
Who says denim is only for fall? Retailers can upgrade a classic denim jacket for winter with a thick, plush sherpa lining. This winter coat is perfect for customers who want to stay cozy without losing that cool, laid-back vibe.
This style offers a casual, relaxed fit that allows room for layering but doesn’t feel bulky. The sherpa lining adds an inviting softness that’s perfect for colder weather, and the warmth it brings without the weight is ideal for everyday wear.
Plus-sized consumers can wear sherpa-lined denim jackets over casual outfits, like flannel shirts, jeans, or cozy sweaters. It’s an effortless match for winter outings like coffee dates or holiday shopping sprees. And if they add a beanie, a chunky scarf, and sturdy boots, plus-sized women will create a look that focuses on easygoing comfort.
5. Oversized puffer coats
Puffer coats have come a long way. Gone are the days of looking like a marshmallow because today’s designs are streamlined, fitted, and unbelievably warm. Oversized puffer coats are essential for winter, and they’re both flattering and functional for plus-sized women with the right cut.
Even better, the newest designs have subtle waist details that add shape, and the insulation means they’re warm without weighing the wearer down. Puffers pair well with athleisure, leggings, or skinny jeans and boots. Plus-sized consumers can style it with beanies and mittens for a cohesive, sporty winter look or dress up with a chunky scarf and ankle boots for city outings.
Last year, searches for oversized puffer jackets peaked at 27,100. However, businesses can expect the same this upcoming winter, with searches already increasing to 8,100 in October from 1,900 in the third quarter of 2024.
Rounding up
Plus-sized consumers need thoughtfully designed, flattering coats that go beyond meeting seasonal demands. When this demographic finds pieces that fit well, feel great, and look amazing, they will feel valued and keep returning for more. Hence, businesses should stock their racks with these five winter coats to increase sales during the cold season and show they care about inclusivity and style.
