Big Girl in a Skinny World: Statement Outerwear

I never owned a real coat when I lived in Los Angeles. When the temperature dipped, I just pulled out a cashmere scarf and layered under a blazer. So when I moved to New York, I was thrilled by the prospect of hitting up my favorite stores in search of the perfect cold-weather accoutrement. Problem was, the plus-size racks were packed with boring black parkas and jackets. Could anything be more bleak this winter than another black puffer? I apply the same fashion sensibility to my outerwear as I do to what's bundled up beneath: If it doesn't scream Wear me now! I won't buy it. My advice: Try an unexpected print, texture, or color and step outside your comfort zone. Tweet me (@mcbiggirl) your faves!

COAT (up to size 22/24), $139, Eloquii by The Limited; eloquii.com.

COAT (up to size 26/28), $178, DKNY Jeans at HSN; hsn.com.

"A graceful winter-white coat can flatter every figure and never goes out of style."

COAT (up to size 3X), $1,568, Lafayette 148 New York; lafayette148ny.com.

SCARF $165, Diane von Furstenberg; net-a-porter.com.

BOOTS $595, Marina Rinaldi; (212) 734-4333.

SEE SPOT RUN Bold animal prints add glam to a modern silhouette — perfect over jeans and a sweater or your fave LBD.

COAT (up to size 22), $116, ASOS Curve; asos.com.

SCARF $555, Alexander McQueen; net-a-porter.com.

BAG $188, IIIBeCa by Joy Gryson nordstrom.com.