The Winter Coats You’ll Wear All Season
When it comes to investing in new-season outerwear, these are the best winter coats to snap up now and wear for years to come, says COLLEEN ROSS
Oversized
An oversized coat instantly refines an outfit. The structured shoulders and long length present casual confidence with minimal effort. For a foundational piece that retains its elegance into the evening, Róhe’s double-breasted style looks great with both eveningwear and layered over off-duty denim. For added drama, embrace the androgynous, strong-shouldered shape of Wardrobe.NYC + Hailey Bieber’s double-breasted beige coat, which looks sensational layered over sleek tailoring. Alternatively, for something with more everyday appeal, try Alexander McQueen’s peacoat or Isabel Marant’s ‘Elza’ leather-trimmed, wool-blend felt coat – they’re the ultimate wardrobe staples you’ll reach for time and time again.
Shearling
A timeless staple with vintage appeal, a shearling coat or jacket is an understated everyday choice. The plush lining is designed for bracing the elements, while the fuzzy details balance directional leather pieces. Toteme’s collarless style is exclusive to NET-A-PORTER and oozes contemporary cool, looking great with off-duty denim and cozy cashmere co-ords alike. Meanwhile Marant Étoile’s ‘Avalia’ jacket is an easy-to-wear staple – throw it on over your gym kit for brunch post-workout. For a piece that can be worn from dawn to dusk, look to longer silhouettes. From our NET SUSTAIN edit of consciously crafted clothing, Nour Hammour’s ’70s-inspired style will keep you cozy on chilly nights and exudes boho chic when worn with a floaty maxi dress. Marni’s version, with its plush shearling collar and contrasting stitching, will take you effortlessly from day to night.
Trenches
Whether it’s made from cotton or wool (or features a practical water-resistant finish), the trench coat is a timeless winter option – guaranteed to be an on-rotation staple that elevates your everyday outfits. The roomy shape is suited for layering over chunky knitwear, while the belted waist can be tied loosely for a more relaxed look or knotted to cinch your waist. Trans-seasonal heroes can be found at Leset, Saint Laurent and Dries Van Noten. Barbour + Alexa Chung’s ‘Natalie’ trench coat comes in waterproof cotton-gabardine with a detachable check collar and a traditional tartan lining.
Quilted and puffers
From the city sidewalks to the glamorous heights of couture, the humble puffer jacket has been adopted and reimagined countless times since the ’30s and continues to be the ultimate investment piece for protection against the cold. Insulated with pillow-soft padding and crafted from lightweight materials, quilted coats are both cool and cozy, whether you’re shopping in town or enjoying a spot of après-ski in snowier climes. Jil Sander and Agolde offer a contemporary take with their city-ready silhouettes, while Proenza Schouler White Label’s ‘Veronica’ version is perfect for country-weekend dressing. Alternatively, look to On’s pillowy soft ‘Challenger’ jacket for a sportier take.
Leather
Leather has really come into its own as an outerwear staple, and this season’s offerings go beyond the classic biker jacket. Elongated trench silhouettes tap into the mood of the moment, mixing practical polish with a sleek, vintage feel for everyday wear. Norma Kamali offers an urban take on the trench coat in glossy vegan leather, while Victoria Beckham’s utilitarian version in brown leather will look effortless slipped on over a cashmere sweater and jeans. Meanwhile, Nour Hammour’s ’90s-inspired ‘Valetta’ style from our NET SUSTAIN edit is crafted from panels of buttery brown leather – wear it buttoned up with gold jewelry and heels.
Statement
Cloudy days call for mood-boosting outerwear, and wearing a standout coat is an easy way to enliven a monochrome closet – not to mention add personality to your look. Patterned styles are always a good place to start, especially when they’re executed as Alix of Bohemia’s zebra-jacquard design. Elsewhere, Valentino Garavani’s jaguar-print coat is perfect for evening events layered over a slip dress, but will look as chic styled with a simple sweater and jeans. Finally, face brisk winter days in style with Toteme’s bestselling scarf coat – one of our NET SUSTAIN highlights.
Belted
When the mercury drops, nothing feels as comforting as reaching for a wrap-around coat to trap in body heat. Róhe’s elegant wool-blend shell version is perfect for slipping on over heavier layers. Elsewhere, Valentino Garavani’s glamorous sumptuous wool and silk blend style comes in a polished ivory shade that’s ideal for special occasions. Finally, Barbour’s waxed organic-cotton trench coat from its latest collaboration with Ganni is the chicest way to stay protected from the elements on drizzly weekend walks.
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