If you’ll be wearing chunky knits or hoodies under a plus size wool cashmere coat, start by choosing your size based on your largest measurement (usually bust or hips) and then plan for extra “wearing ease” so the coat can close comfortably without pulling. A good rule is to size up if you’re between sizes, if your sweaters are bulky (cable-knit, fleece-lined, or oversized), or if you prefer a relaxed silhouette that doesn’t feel restrictive through the shoulders and upper arms.
Focus on three areas that tend to feel tight when layering: shoulders, upper arms, and bust. You should be able to cross your arms, drive, and reach forward without strain in the back. When trying a coat on over a thick sweater, check that the front closes smoothly, the lapels lie flat, and the fabric doesn’t “X” pull across the chest. If it does, going up one size is typically more comfortable than hoping the coat will “break in,” since wool-cashmere blends don’t stretch much.
Also consider the coat’s cut. If it’s tailored or has set-in shoulders, sizing up can be the difference between polished and cramped. If it’s designed as an oversized or cocoon fit, your usual size may already allow for layering. Sleeve lining matters, too: a smooth lining makes it easier to slip on over thick sleeves without feeling tight.
For a deeper, product-specific sizing walkthrough, see the main guide here: https://evanele.com/what-size-should-i-choose-in-a-plus-size-wool-cashmere-coat-if-i-plan-to-layer-thick-sweaters-underneath/.
The shoulder seam should sit at or just slightly past your natural shoulder edge, and you should be able to lift your arms without the coat tugging across your upper back. If the shoulders feel tight when layered, the next size up usually fits better than altering the shoulder area.
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