The best coats for pear shapes

Pear shapes are fuller on the lower half so dress to enhance your top half: try a top with details that draw the eye (like a dress or top with big or embellished shoulders). Or balance yourself out: try a dress with a fitted top and fuller skirt. Try wearing plain trousers or skirts. Wear a longer jacket, as a short one will exaggerate your bottom half (although make sure it doesn’t finish at the widest part of your bottom). Well-fitting pencil skirts are good as they should cling in the right places, and have a slight corseting effect Photograph: Rob Biddulph

This deep v neckline gives you a flattering shape on top while the bottom flares out, skimming your lower half. Gap, £108, 0800 427 789 Photograph: PR

Double breasted buttons will draw attention up and away from your lower half. Mango, £105, 020 7434 386 Photograph: PR

A black military coat with detailed buttons will draw attention to your top half while slimming your lower half. Massimo Dutti, £149, 020 7851 1280 Photograph: PR

Central buttons will elongate the body while a slight A-line skims the lower half. Paul Smith, £445, www.mywardrobe.com Photograph: PR

Choose a detailed collar to draw the eye up. Whistles, £265, 0870 770 4301 Photograph: PR