A, X, H, O, V... My guide, my body shape, my winter coat!
Some prefer to sew themselves a warm jacket, while others succumb to the timeless elegance of a coat. But you still need to choose the right cut... and know your body shape! Burda Style is here to guide you in your sewing choices.
Whether your figure is A, X, O, H, or V-shaped, the Burda Style editorial team offers two options for each: a jacket or a coat to sew. Discover designs created to flatter your figure, accompanied by advice on choosing fabrics, cuts, and finishes. Be inspired by this tailor-made selection and stay warm and stylish all season long!
The A-Shape (or Pyramid) Body Type
Draw attention to the upper body by focuBsing on sophisticated details and balanced volumes
Opt for jackets and coats with bold collars, shoulder pads, or elaborate lapels, which structure the silhouette and rebalance proportions.
When it comes to jackets, choose hip- or thigh-length styles to create a beautiful visual harmony.
Coats, on the other hand, can be long and structured, delicately marking the waist before flowing smoothly at the bottom.


Wool Jacket 119 | Burda Style 11/24
The wraparound jacket with large checks enhances the A-line silhouette thanks to its structured shoulders and belt that accentuates the waist. The volume of the top balances the hips while adding a modern and comfortable designer touch.
Tip for simplifying the cutting of pieces in a checked fabric: trace the pattern pieces onto a transparent plastic sheet so you can follow the check pattern perfectly when cutting.
Polyester Coat 110 | Burda Style 12/24
Lightweight, feminine, and infinitely versatile!
This flared coat with a graphic silhouette slims the figure while accentuating the waist with its elegant double-breasted fastening. The fluid drape and structured shoulders naturally elongate the silhouette, while maintaining a refined and romantic look.
Its charming feature: the large lapel collar, which catches the eye and creates a bold and elegant look.
H-Shaped (or Rectangular) Body Type
Define your waistline or elongate your silhouette!
The shoulders and hips are aligned, the waist is slightly defined: a balanced and structured silhouette, enhanced by subtle plays on volume and refined details. The idea? To create an impression of soft curves or draw the eye to understated yet chic finishes.


Wool Coat 112 | Burda Style 08/24
Understated in appearance, this is a beautiful technical piece. Its long, straight line, without marking the waist, naturally elongates the silhouette: an ideal asset for H-shaped body types. For petite figures, it can be slightly shortened to balance proportions. The discreet single-button closure respects the purity of the volume and highlights the simplicity of the cut. The slightly raised collar, embedded in the seam, elegantly emphasizes the neckline.
The couture touch: a piped pocket, as chic as it is challenging to make, adds a sophisticated finish to this exceptional coat.
Cotton Blazer 119 | Burda Style 10/25
The editorial team's favorite! This belted blazer subtly redefines the waist while preserving the natural balance of H-shaped body types. Its flap pockets add a graphic touch, and the belt provides just the right amount of structure and femininity.
Style and look: it's a true chameleon! Here in on-trend velvet, it pairs just as well with jeans as it does with pleated pants, or even a skirt or dress for a chic and modern look.
V-shaped body type (or inverted pyramid), athletic build
Feminize with oversized or shorter pieces to highlight your legs
With defined shoulders and a bust that is more developed than the lower body, the V-shaped silhouette appeals with its natural presence. Avoid overly prominent details at the top in favor of flowing cuts and soft fabrics. Oversized shapes are ideal, softening broad shoulders while offering a modern look. For a feminine touch, opt for soft colors and cozy textures.


Quilted Blouson 108 | Burda Style 11/22
A soft, luminous powder pink quilted fabric paired with fashionable corduroy softens the bust line while adding subtle volume. The straight, slightly oversized cut perfectly balances the shoulders and subtly highlights the silhouette. The short length shows off your legs and hips.
Sewing tip: opt for raglan sleeves or styles without defined armholes; they visually soften broad shoulders and create a more fluid line.
Wool Coat 111 | Burda Style 10/25
Here, the wide sleeves integrated into the front piece and the oversized cut contribute to a soft silhouette. The large V-neckline lightens the bust, while the straight cut and midi length structure the look without making it too rigid. The patch pockets on the hips add just the right amount of volume to rebalance the line.
The chic factor: a blend of camel wool equals refinement and understated luxury.
O-Shaped Body Type (Round)
Minimize volumes with subtlety and refinement
The O-shape is appealing thanks to its softness and evenly distributed volumes.
The idea? To visually refine the silhouette while maintaining comfort and femininity. We focus on flowing cuts, vertical lines, and slightly structured fabrics to create a gentle slimming effect.


Wool Coat 126 | Burda Style 08/25
This mid-length coat is sleek and refined, elegantly elongating the silhouette.
The fluid, vertical line creates a sophisticated look without adding bulk. The pastel shade is understated yet feminine, enhancing the softness of the look while maintaining a sense of lightness. The perfectly balanced flap pockets are positioned so as not to weigh down the overall silhouette.
Wool Coat 112 | Burda Style 10/25
A modern and vibrant style, halfway between a jacket and a coat. Its loose yet structured cut elegantly conceals curves, while the vertical line of the garment elongates the silhouette and gives it presence. The flowing fabric, combined with a bright color, adds a beautiful dynamic and a contemporary twist.
Go for bright colors! They bring cheerfulness and light up winter days!
The X-Shaped Body Type
Hourglass-shaped, fitted, and belted!
With well-proportioned shapes at the top and bottom and a beautiful defined waist, you have plenty of choices! Fitted cuts or those that define the waist will always look better than overly straight and oversized cuts that don't flatter your beautiful figure.


Quilted fabric Coat 101 | Burda Style 11/24
The look is urban and dynamic! The lightness of the belted quilting naturally emphasizes the waist and highlights the harmonious balance of the X-shaped silhouette. The fluid, feminine cut structures the silhouette without constricting it. With a princess cut, a flared skirt, and a waist yoke, the jacket's cut almost resembles a dress.
Polyester Coat 106 | Burda Style 08/22
A bold silhouette and confident look! Here's a more classic coat cut in camel. The waist is accentuated by cutouts and double-layered detailing. We love the refined details of the beautiful tailored collar with rounded edges and flap pockets at the waist.
This timelessly elegant piece highlights your curves while preserving the natural grace of your figure.
Silhouettes Designed by pikisuperstar / Freepik



