How to choose the right size for a fur coat bought online
Buying fur coats online is completely safe today, as long as you know how to choose the right size without trying it on in person. Professional fur retailers operating online offer size guides, personalized advice, and flexible returns that eliminate the risk. All you need are the right tools to get it right the first time. This guide explains the step-by-step method for buying your fur coat online with the same confidence as in a physical store.
How to choose the right size for a fur coat without mistakes
Choosing the right size for a fur coat depends less on luck and more on method. With four correctly taken measurements and a reliable reference chart, any fur coat will fit the first time. Below is the complete process, from why fur coat sizes do not work like ready-to-wear sizes to the details that vary depending on the style of the coat.
The problem with standard sizes in fur coats
Before you take your measurements, one important fact: fur coat sizes do not correspond exactly to ready-to-wear sizes. If you normally wear a medium in fabric jackets, you will probably need a medium in fur coats too, but there are variations depending on the brand, construction technique, and style. A small short jacket may be equivalent to a medium long coat from the same brand.
This means that the size guide in centimeters is always more reliable than the letter (S, M, L). Learn how to measure your body and compare it with the specific centimeter chart for each model.
The four measurements you need to take
To get the right size for 95% of fur coats, you need these four measurements. Take them with a sewing tape measure, over underwear or a thin sweater, without pulling tight.
1. Chest circumference
Measure around the widest part of the bust, keeping the tape measure horizontal. This is the most important measurement for getting the coat's base size right.
2. Waist circumference
Measure around the narrowest part of the torso, generally about 2-3 cm above the navel. This is important for fitted styles or coats with belts.
3. Hip circumference
Measure around the widest part of the hips, generally at the level of the buttocks. This is critical for thigh-length or long coats that must accommodate the hips.
4. Sleeve length
Measure from the shoulder joint (where the collarbone ends) to where you want the sleeve to end. Generally, to the base of the thumb for a standard sleeve.
Approximate size chart for your fur coat
This approximate chart works for most premium European brands. Always check the specific product chart:
- XS (size 36-38): chest 82-86 cm | waist 64-68 cm | hips 88-92 cm
- S (size 38-40): chest 86-90 cm | waist 68-72 cm | hips 92-96 cm
- M (size 40-42): chest 90-94 cm | waist 72-76 cm | hips 96-100 cm
- L (size 42-44): chest 94-100 cm | waist 76-82 cm | hips 100-106 cm
- XL (size 44-46): chest 100-106 cm | waist 82-88 cm | hips 106-112 cm
If your measurement falls between two sizes, there is a simple rule: in fur coats, it is almost always better to size up, not down. The coat is worn over winter clothing, not a T-shirt.
The golden rule: allow room for the clothes underneath
This is the number one mistake when buying online: taking your measurements in pajamas and buying the exact size. When the coat arrives, the cashmere sweater or thick jacket will not fit inside, and the result is an avoidable return.
To avoid this: add 4-6 cm to your chest measurement if you will wear the coat over bulky garments (thick wool sweaters, jackets). If you will only wear it over T-shirts or thin blouses, your exact measurement is sufficient. With this margin and a well-calculated fur coat size, you will get it right the first time and enjoy your garment from day one.
