In winter, your coat becomes the focal point of your outfit. When the temperature drops, it’s easy to grab your trusty puffer coat, but if you want something a bit more polished, there are plenty of stylish alternatives. We’ve curated a selection of our favorite coats and jackets of the season to keep you warm and stylish this winter.
The Wool Coat
A classic wool coat is a timeless wardrobe staple, and for good reason—layer a wool coat over any outfit, and you’ll immediately look put together. Whether you choose a fitted, oversized, full-length, or cropped version, designers are offering endless options for wearing this essential piece. One key trend this season is longer hemlines, offering a more elegant silhouette. Since there are many styles to choose from, we suggest picking a wool coat in a neutral colour for maximum versatility. This camel wool coat with a faux fur collar from Ever New offers a luxurious look. Alternatively, you can’t go wrong with a classic black coat like this version made from recycled wool from Simons.
Pro Tip: When buying a wool coat, remember to snip off the sleeve label—it’s meant to be removed. The same goes for the small stitch holding the back vents together. You’ll find this simple stitch at the back of the coat, designed to keep the flaps closed before you wear it.
Shearling and Sherpa
Suede has been a standout trend this fall, so it’s no surprise that shearling and sherpa finishes have become this season’s must-have accent materials. These plush textures combine warmth with style, adding a cozy yet chic touch to any look. While shearling and sherpa tend to lean more casual, you can elevate your outfit by pairing them with a more polished ensemble underneath, allowing the coat to take center stage. This long sherpa-trimmed coat from Danier is a perfect example of this season’s style, while the cropped aviation-style jacket from Zara brings an edgy twist.
Animal Print Outerwear
Wearing animal print outerwear always makes a style statement. Leopard print coats have led the pack, and now we’re also seeing the black and white zebra print become popular. From full-length faux fur to chic overcoats, animal print is a trend that always comes back around. Google search for leopard print coats and you’ll find endless celebrity inspiration, from Jacqueline Kennedy in the 70s, Kate Moss in the 2000s, to current season Bella Hadid wearing a version of animal print coats. Check out brands like ba&sh, Sezane, and Michael Kors for their takes on this chic outerwear style.
Pro Tip: A new coat can be a significant investment, so why not consider checking out your local thrift shop? Many of this season’s popular styles, like animal print, especially from the early 2000s, can often be found in gently used, near-perfect condition. If you come across a piece that needs a little TLC, take it to a local tailor for any necessary repairs and give it a second life.
Capes
Bohemian styles are making a comeback, and this winter, the cape silhouette is front and center. This aesthetic was seen on the runways of Chloe and Bottega Veneta and is sure to continue into spring. Today’s capes are often designed with arm slits or wider openings for easy layering, making the cape both stylish and functional. We love this deep yellow wool version from Sezane, along with this wool-blend cape from COS.
The Scarf Coat
A scarf coat features a long scarf in the same fabric stitched into the coat’s design. You can wear it draped across your shoulders or wrapped around your neck if it’s chilly. Totême is credited with creating one of the original styles that popularized this trend, featuring distinctive blanket stitch detailing. The scarf may be built-in or detachable, allowing for a customizable look. This leather trimmed wool coat from COS features a detachable scarf, as does this version from H&M.
Pro Tip: If you already own a wool coat, you can easily recreate this style by getting a scarf that matches your coat fabric perfectly.
Lyndi Barrett is fashion industry expert with a focus on PR, Trend Forecasting, and Event Planning. Lyndi has worked with many prestigious brands as a publicist and a content creator. She loves sharing her passion for style, trends, and fashion through her Instagram, Style Calling.