TikTok has become an online destination for all the need-to-know fashion tips, tricks, and hacks you weren’t expecting. Depending on your For You page, you may already know about the now-famousGirlfriend Collective sports bra being touted as a binder alternative. My own TikTok algorithm has been serving me up lots of trans and non-binary folks that seemingly can’t get enough of this surprising hack. Recommended by and for those with bigger breasts, for whom traditional binders may be uncomfortable, the Dylan Tank Bra seemed perfect for me. I’m a 38H, and, while it would be impossible for me to ever be completely flat, I was curious and excited to try a binder alternative that could be super compressive and actually pleasant to wear. I also decided to try another less-compressive sports bra from GC, the Mia High Neck, to see how it stacked up.
For those not familiar, Girlfriend Collective is an online destination for athleisure and loungewear that’s equally beloved for its sustainability (all made from recycled water bottles) and size-inclusivity. (The brand currently carries sizes XXS-6XL.) While it’s been an R29 editor go-to for years, the binder angle was completely new to me. According to their sizing chart, I’m supposed to be an XXL, but I’ve tried GC sports bras with that size and they were too loose. And since I wanted these as a binder, sizing down to XL made sense. That was ultimately the best decision for me and my breasts, although I do get a fair share of side boob.
It can be incredibly disheartening when your body doesn’t match the vision you have of yourself. For trans and non-binary people, how others view us — and how we view ourselves — means everything. The main non-surgical solution for many AFAB (Assigned Female At Birth) people is to use binders to flatten their chest. But binders are often infamously uncomfortable, especially for larger-breasted folks. That’s why sports bras are an amazing alternative, and why so many people were excited by the Dylan sports bra. Does it work? How did I feel? Keep on reading to find out.
The viral sensation on trans and non-binary Tik Tok, the Dylan Tank Bra is what started it all. And for good reason: when I first tried it on (I ripped open the package as soon as I got it), I cried. I loved how I looked in the mirror. This is probably as flat as I can be without it being painful and hindering my breathing. I was in awe. I’ve never experienced anything like it before.
I wouldn’t use this for two full days in a row, though. I’ve never used a binder so I can’t compare it to that, but it definitely constricted me a little (although not enough for it to be unbearable or painful, just uncomfortable). I’ve had way worse and more uncomfortable experiences with sports bras that weren’t meant to flatten me, and those I couldn’t handle for more than an hour. I wore the Dylan tank bra, on the other hand, for a full workday at home and for a trip to Target, and I was more than fine.
The Mia High Neck Bra is another binder alternative from GC. This doesn’t have as much flattening power as the Dylan Bra, but it’s perfect for when you want a lighter option. I use it mainly for when I have a full and busy day, am walking around somewhere, or when I’m wearing loose-fitting t-shirts and tops. It’s definitely more comfortable and less constricting compared to the Dylan, although you do get the occasional mono-boob and adjustments are required (only once or twice a day).
All in all, these are an amazing and comfortable alternative to binding. For the first time, my vision of myself aligned perfectly with what I saw in the mirror. I could not recommend these enough. If you’ve been curious about binding, try these. You won’t regret it.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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Fall styling can be tricky for two reasons: your #ootd depends on the confusing transitional weather and/or you’re missing some essential items in your wardrobe. It’s easy to just settle for your favorite sweatpants and comfy tee. But, if you’re challenging yourself to put more effort into your style this season, here are some tips to keep in mind. Start with the basics, like a go-to top and bottoms. Then add on your layers and accessorize from there. Lastly, pick out a staple piece that can be worn with anything in your wardrobe.
This fall season is the perfect time to elevate your style, especially for those who may be heading back into the office for work. If you need some inspiration, the R29 Unbothered team is sharing our fall must-have items and the ways we love to style them. From the perfect pair of jeans to the perfect style of boots, we got you covered from head to toe.
Venesa Coger, Style & Culture Specialist
Skinny Jeans
"My fall wardrobe is only complete with the perfect medium wash skinny jeans simply because they can be tucked smoothly into any of my knee-high boots. And when I do want to wear other shoes like loafers or sneakers, I can still manage to look sleek. I don’t mind investing in higher brand denim because I want them to last longer. It’s taken me years to find the right fit and style when it comes to jeans because I need them to always be comfortable, provide a good amount of stretch, and look flattering on my shape. Don’t listen to those TikToks dragging skinny jeans, they are here to stay."
Maiya Carmichael, Social Coordinator
Sweater Dress
"Whether it’s a cardigan secured with a belt or a calf-length number with a high slit, a sweater dress is a must-have for the fall season. The sweater dress combines the ease and fluidity of your favorite summertime dress with the chicness of a sweater. And don’t get me started on it being one of the best layering pieces! Paired with Chelsea boots, an oversized blazer, or a scarf, a sweater dress is guaranteed to have you looking good and feeling better."
Sandy Pierre, Branded Execution Specialist
Hooded Sweatshirt
"My fall must-have is a hoodie! No particular brand but Essentials Fear of God, has been my favorite brand lately. You can match a good hoodie with a pair of jeans, biker shorts, tights, or even skirts. I also love to class it up with blazers. Hoodies are super comfy and they keep you warm. Plus, they’re perfect for a casual day out."
Christa Eduafo, Social Content Strategist
Oversized Blazer
"My fall staple without a shadow of a doubt is an oversized blazer. I absolutely live for an oversized blazer moment, complete with shoulder pads. It elevates casual jeans and t-shirt outfits in a way no other layer can, and I simply enjoy it."
Kathleen Newman-Bremang, Senior Editor
Varsity Jacket
"My favorite thing about fall is the layers. Layers on layers on layers, baby! So, naturally, my fall must-have is the most important layer of all: the jacket. And since I am obsessed with teen TV shows, and teen content in general, I’m also very into varsity jackets that makes me feel like Vince Howard in Friday Night Lights (played by my future ex-husband, Michael B Jordan) or Jackson Marchetti (Kedar Williams-Stirling) in Sex Education. In fact, this season’s varsity jacket of choice is part of H&M’s collaboration with the UK Netflix series and it’s perfect. Its fit is relaxed, comfortable, and oversized. It’s warm enough for the cooling temps but not too warm. And its official Dolphins logo will make you feel like you’re walking straight to Moordale Secondary."
Ineye Komonibo, Culture Critic
Combat Boots
"Fall is the perfect time to pull your favorite boots out from the back of the closet, and for me, my go-to kicks for the cold(er) seasons are my dependable Dr. Marten 1460 Pascal Bex Boots. I’ve had these combat boots for years — that $160 sticker price is for a good reason — and they match every outfit no matter the vibe I'm going for. Even though they’ve gotten a little scuffed as a result of being out on these Brooklyn streets, my Docs are always the perfect edgy accent for my fall and winter wardrobe. They are effortlessly cool and comfortable. 10/10 would recommend."
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Instagram’s best-dressed have one thing in common: they each have a signature style item that they wear more often and better than anyone else. For one person, it could be a string bikini, worn on and off the beach. For another, it’s a standout hat or expertly layered jewelry. Whatever the piece may be, it’s their thing. With our column My Thing, we’re talking with those same experts about that one specific item they have made into their signature — and style unlike anyone else.
Every year, come October, we embrace our wardrobe’s darker side. Leading up to Halloween, bikinis turn into turtlenecks, breezy colors are swapped for moodier hues, and our internal desire to channel Morticia Addams is intensified. But while this is a seasonal phenomenon for many, others, like the 30-year-old Berlin-based illustrator-designer Sonia Lazo, live the witchy fashion life year-round.
“I’ve always been into spooky fashion,” says Lazo, who grew up in El Salvador before, recently, moving to Germany. “It’s been a lifelong affinity for me.” While Lazo indeed gravitates toward graphic skull prints, all-black outfits, and lace-up corsets, what makes their style stand out in the space is their ability to channel the goth aesthetic while infusing colors and Victorian- and Rococo-inspired silhouettes. Think: lots of pink (Lazo's favorite hue) and pastels; voluminous, child-like dresses; thigh-high socks, bow headpieces; and choker necklaces.
As an illustrator, Lazo likes working with elements from mythology, astrology, horror, and fantasy, resulting in colorful, kitschy art that then trickles into their fashion. Lazo’s style is also influenced by their interest in witchcraft and the ways in which women can channel their feminine power. “It’s beautiful to see women reclaiming a word that it’s been used against them for so long,” they say. (In 2019, they published a book on the subject, titled Witch, Please!: Magical Musings on Life, Love, and Owning Your Power.)
While Lazo’s Halloween-esque style lives year-round, they confess that every October they get especially excited about dressing up. Over the past month, they have shown their almost 150K followers on Instagram outfits ranging from frilly dresses, matching sets, T-shirts, and tights with skull and dead flower prints to vinyl corsets and lace tights: “I definitely feel it a bit more this time of the year.”
Ahead, see how the creative styles their looks from January to December.
Clashing prints is one way to make a black-and-white look visually interesting.The official outfit of the spooky-girly aesthetic.The category is "tropical goth."Add a skull-charm choker to toughen up an otherwise-whimsical look.When you have a full day at the office.This is your sign to match your bag to your T-shirt.Itsy bitsy spider!Activewear meets witchy fashion.
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It doesn’t matter if you’re low on comfy sweaters, in search of some work-friendly dresses, or ready to splurge on a versatile winter coat — whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it at Mango. And there’s no better time to shop than right now: The brand is offering 30% off everything, both online and in stores. You only have so many days to take advantage of this deal, though. The site-wide sale ends November 1. But because that’s not nearly enough time to sift through all of Mango’s timeless basics and trendy jackets, jeans, and more, we rounded up some of the cutest, coziest items you won’t want to miss. From the softest cardigans to dresses that will take you from day to night, here are our top picks to shop right now.
30% Off Coats & Jackets
Some of Mango’s best offerings are the site’s sharp, sophisticated, and sometimes playful jackets and coats. If you’re looking for a sign it’s time to elevate your favorite fall outfits with new outerwear, this is it.
30% Off Sweaters & Cardigans
Maybe it’s just me, but you can never have too many comfy layers. Celebrate sweater weather with Mango’s colorful collection of cardigans, pullovers, and knitwear.
30% Off Tops
When it comes to shirts, tops, and turtlenecks, Mango has tons of great basics and funky, floral patterns alike. Your new staples are waiting for you.
30% Off Dresses
From mini to midi to maxi styles, Mango’s dresses are perfect for holiday dinners, workplace happy hours, days spent out and about, and every activity in between.
30% Off Jeans & Pants
In the market for some new smart, casual trousers, a go-to pair of jeans, or even leather pants? Mango has all the pants you need (and maybe some you didn’t know you needed, too).
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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If shopping more consciously is top of mind for you, there’s a fashion brand you should know: the Canada-based company tentree. It operates with a straightforward mission: to plant ten trees for every product that is sold. Talk about ambition — the brand has a goal to plant one billion trees, mostly in Madagascar and Indonesia, by 2030. The trees help protect these countries’ native animals and habitats by absorbing CO2, providing natural wood, and generating fertile soils for food growth. In theory, you can shop for any item today and you’ll be contributing to long-term wellness for Mother Nature!
Every item you order also comes with a unique QR “tree code” which tracks exactly where your ten trees are planted — which are done so within six months of purchase. (The trees are not planted if you return an item, however.) So far, the program has been a resounding success; at the time of writing this story, tentree has planted over 61,614,000 trees since the company’s launch a decade ago.
And, as expected from such an earth-minded brand, everything in tentree’s lineup comes from ethical factories and is made from sustainably sourced materials. Apparel is manufactured using natural fibers like organic cotton and hemp, or from recycled polyester, and even the buttons are outfitted from coconut shells (rather than plastic). The brand is also making strides to find better solutions to packaging as well, pledging to do away with all virgin materials from its supply chain by 2023.
To get you acquainted with tentree, the brand is hooking up R29 readers with the exclusive code REFINERY15 for 15% off sitewide through 1/31/2022 (that’s right, into the new year!). Scope out the site and you’ll find plenty of clothes that are as practical as they are stylish — there are perfectly cropped bomber jackets, winter-ready puffers, cozy sweater dresses, everyday tees, sweats for staying in, and more. Consider this a solid, feel-good opportunity to snag a few winter layers or to get a head start on your holiday shopping — all while supporting a brand that is dedicated to doing more for our planet. Click to browse the women’s collection (as well as men’s and kids’), or scroll ahead for our top picks.
This water-resistant chore jacket is 99% compostable, made from a blend of organic cotton and an impressive dried fruit fiber from the Kapok tree. At the end of this jacket’s life, tentree recommends unscrewing the buttons and reusing them while the rest can be sent to decompose safely and naturally.
This fully lined winter puffer is made with a 100% recycled polyester outer, has plenty of pockets (with storm flaps), and is insulated with PrimaLoft.
This one’s for all the gorpcore heads. This hoodie, created in partnership with National Geographic, could seriously pass as vintage. Proceeds from this topper go towards supporting the longstanding org and its dedication to positive change for the planet (in addition to planting the usual ten trees).
This jogger is one of tentree’s bestsellers — in fact, it has a hype rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars and 679 customer reviews. Writes one reviewer, “I needed to find pants that would keep me cool and be really comfy, and these blew it out of the water. They are so comfy and keep me cool even in the heat. Have them now in 2 different colours and want more!”
Ethically made in China, this cozy cardigan is made from 44% recycled polyester, 30% organic cotton, and 26% wool in Mesa Red (above) or Oatmeal Heather.
Here’s another cute throwback that we’re obsessed with. Who can deny Smokey’s lifelong mission to let people know “Only you can prevent wildfires”? We must stan.
This blanket-like oversized scarf is made from 100% RWS certified wool.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
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Wearing dresses in the winter can be tricky — especially when your measurements don't fit into "standard" sizing ranges. Between the harsh elements and the lack of options, it ends up being a lot easier to throw on a pair of jeans rather than hunting down the perfect not-too-warm, not-too-bulky but still stylish dress option. Fortunately, more and more plus-size winterwear options have been popping up and plus-size sweater dresses are no exception.
Sweater dresses are more than just easy to throw on cold weather frocks — they actually do what their name implies, and act as the full-body warmers we've always dreamed of. Plus it, allows us to carry over the one-and-done convenience of dresses into colder months. So if you're plus-sized and looking for that one perfect dress to slip on until spring arrives, we've got you covered. Ahead, we've rounded up 9 plus-size sweater dresses that are sure to keep you nice and warm all season long.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Eloquii Colorblock Sweater Cardigan Dress
Best Plus-Size Cardigan Sweater Dress Size Range: 14-28
Gone are the days of frumpy dresses that have no shape or style. This number from Eloquii has the right amount of subtle flair, like the intentional yet cool color blocking that appears to give the dress a subtle checkered appearance.
Eloquii Colorblock Sweater Cardigan Dress, $, available at Eloquii
Eloquii Rib Collar Sweater Dress
Best Plus-Size Collared Sweater Dress Size Range: 14-28
The preppy polo trend gets a dressy upgrade with this ribbed number from Eloquii. It's a closet standout that one reviewer says gets her "compliments all day long." We recommend checking out both the nude and bright orange colors.
Eloquii Rib Collar Sweater Dress, $, available at Eloquii
Universal Standard Eco Everyday Sweater Dress
Best Plus-Size Crew Neck Sweater Dress Size Range: 00-40
About 20% of the materials in this dress are recycled. It is perfect for errands or just staying in and relaxing. If you throw on a cute kitten heel and some pretty jewels it can even be a more elevated date night look.
Universal Standard Eco Everyday Sweater Dress, $, available at Universal Standard
Hennig Ribbed Knit Dress
Best Plus-Size Luxury Sweater Dress Size Range: 1X-4X
This sleeveless number from plus-size luxury brand Hennig checks all the boxes: Its exquisite construction, moisture-wicking fabric, and endless styling opportunities make it your new go-to for date night, work, and beyond.
Current Air Cable-Knit Sweater Dress Set, $, available at Anthropologie
Fashion Union Plus Chunky Roll Neck Sweater Dress
Best Plus-Size Roll Neck Sweater Dress Size Range: 14-24
A roll neck cut is a minor style detail that makes a big difference. This dress gives off all the cozy vibes— layer it over your favorite pair of tights for a classic fall look.
Shop ASOS
Fashion Union Plus chunky roll neck knitted sweater dre, $, available at ASOS
Eloquii Asymmetric Fitted Midi Sweater Dress
Best Plus-Size Sweater Dress With Cutouts Size Range: 14-28
This cutout moment is fierce and sexy all at the same time — and proves that you don't have to only wear cutout details during the warmer months.
Eloquii Asymmetric Fitted Midi Sweater Dress, $, available at Eloquii
A New Day Women's Longsleeve Ribbed Knit Sweater Dress
Best Plus-Sized Ribbed Knit Sweater Dress Size Range: 1X-4X
A ribbed knit is a cold-weather must-have. This cozy dress gets rave reviews from shoppers who like that it is both "really comfy" and "classy." Just note some buyers remark that it runs big.
A New Day Women's Long Sleeve Ribbed Knit Sweater Dress - A New Day™, $, available at Target
Madewell Long Sleeve Polo Marino Wool-Blend Sweater Vest
Best Plus-Sized Merino Wool Sweater Dress Size Range: 1X-3X
This sweater is made from a blend of wool, cotton, and synthetic fibers for a dress that's warm but not itchy or too heavy. As the chilly temperatures continue to fall, the natural toastiness of wool will come in handy.
Today’s trends are anything but straightforward, with belly chains, sporty gym shorts, and upside-down bikinis all making waves. Ensuring that your wardrobe is up to date can often mean searching for shoppable items in a sea of puzzling options. Where does one actually buy a belly chain? What differentiates regular gym shorts from fashionable gym shorts? Is shopping for an upside-down bikini as difficult as wearing one? Our new columnSourcedanswers all your market-related questions, as well as offers you an endless source of styles that will make snagging today’s top trends easy, so you can spend your precious time learning about the next wave of trends.
"Red light, green light."
By now, most of the Internet is familiar with the fear-inducing phrase, thanks to the worldwide success of Squid Game. As a result of the Netflix series, viewers are also aware of one of fall’s most popular items: the tracksuit.
Following the release of the South Korean drama — in which players must survive a series of deadly games to win a million-dollar prize — global fashion search site Lyst reported an increase of 97% in searches for retro-inspired matching sets. (The site also reported a 35% increase in searches for white slip-on sneakers, which the characters also wear on the series, as well as a 35% rise in searches for white numbered T-shirts.)
Before the series made the green uniform a must-have item, tracksuits already had a strong grip on fashion. Over the past year and a half, heritage brands like Adidas, as well as Instagram-favorite names like Skims, have seen success with sweatsuits, as lockdowns have brought activewear to the forefront.
Ahead, options that will have you game-ready for fall.
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New Balance x Staud Track Jacket, $, available at Staud
New Balance x Staud Track Pant, $, available at Staud
Are you feeling the nip in the air? The tingle in the breeze? The goosebumps on your skin? It means winter is rudely approaching and you best be prepared with durable outerwear that will keep you warm from the first snowfall to the still-frigid days in March (sorry).
Luckily, this year’s offerings of women’s parkas, down jackets, and winter puffers are impossibly stylish considering the sub-zero temps we’ll eventually have to deal with. And, if you’re looking for a crash course in parka jargon, here are the main details to know: “Down” refers to small, wispy feathers that are generally used in puffers, which have traditionally been sourced in cruel and inhumane ways (which is why looking for “responsibly-sourced” feathers or “down alternative” is crucial). “Fill” is a number that measures the “fluffiness” level of a down product (basically, the higher the number, the more insulating it is).
While many of these coats are inevitably stuffed with fluff-tastic down fill, you can be rest assured that none of these will make you look like a total marshmallow (although, we do encourage cloud-like softness whenever possible). Ahead, we present 15 super-warm jackets ranging from the “legacy” styles of The North Face and L.L.Bean to the sleek and chic silhouettes from fan-fave fashion retailers like Madewell and Aritizia. Go on and file these under “absolute best women’s parkas ever” because they also happen to be some of the highest-rated, most aesthetically pleasing styles that cold-weather people actually swear by. Now that’s chilling — in a good way!
The Classic (And Vegan) Black Parka This can’t-go-wrong puffer has a water-resistant outer shell, a removable hood (with removable faux fur trim), “comfort cuffs” that keep your hands warm, and is filled with 100% synthetic down polyester—all at a reasonable price from a trusted outdoor gear brand. Best For: Soggy, wintry weather The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 810 reviews on cabelas.com What They’re Saying: “This jacket is everything I need it to be. I love how it covers my hips with ease; I find that fact alone adds a lot of warmth. It does a good job of blocking the wind and it stood up to a long walk at the beach in the rain. The water just beaded up. A surprising positive is the ‘comfort cuffs’ – they keep cold air from going up the sleeves and I find I don’t wear gloves as often. I appreciate how easy it is to remove the fur around the hood (not my style) but otherwise the hood is excellent, and easy on/off. The collar stands up nicely to block wind and eliminate the need for wearing a scarf. Lastly, even though this jacket is well insulated, it is still soft and easy to move around in.”
The Chicly Oversized Maxi Puffer
Many of the parkas you’ll find in this roundup are serving warmth over serving looks — but, for shoppers who don’t want to sacrifice style, this popular puffer from Nap Loungewear is a golden choice. Best For: A street style moment The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars and 36 reviews on naploungewear.com What They’re Saying: “It is perfect for long walks on cold fall days, winter weekends spent playing in the snow and icy spring mornings when the sun is shining but the temps are low.”
The Lightweight Sporty Parka
If you’re looking for a flattering parka that is specifically designed to keep you warm and keep you dry during sweat-inducing outdoor activities, this lightweight jacket from Arc’teryx is it. Best For: Wind protection and casual sports like running and hiking The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 296 reviews on arcteryx.com What They’re Saying: “Don’t think twice and go for it! I wanted to pack light for my Alaska trip in August! It kept me warm wherever needed, I was on the front deck for three hours during our Kenai Fjord national park glacier cruise, it was super windy, cold around 45 degrees and it drizzled at times but this jacket was like my own superhero. I was just wearing a cotton tee beneath. I got so many compliments! Worth the money. Needless to say, I love Arc’teryx!”
The Ultra Warm “Fashion” Parka
Aritzia’s warmest outerwear is this slim-fit parka — available in an assortment of colors — that is filled with 100% responsibly sourced, 700+ fill-power goose down. Best For: Temperatures down to -30°C / -22°F The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 191 reviews on aritzia.com What They’re Saying: “Perfect coat for cold Canadian winters! I love this coat. Even if I’m only wearing a thin shirt underneath, it keeps me warm. If it’s really cold (-15 or colder) I wear it with a sweater and never feel cold. It’s not too bulky so it still looks stylish, and I’ve got several compliments on the colour (smoky emerald green). The hood lining is so soft and the magnetic snaps are super convenient. The pockets are soft and deep. I’m about 5’4” and 120 lbs and the small fit perfectly. The shipping was also very fast, it arrived 3 days after I ordered it. If you buy this coat, you won’t be disappointed!”
The Silky-Smooth Luxury Puffer
Elevated basics company Jenni Kayne may be based in Los Angeles, but the brand still sure knows how to make a warm parka for chilly nights. Fans most love this puffer’s sleek and luxurious hand feel. Best For: California “winters” The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars and 12 reviews on jennikayne.com What They’re Saying: “This puffer is ultra-warm with a perfectly cozy shape. The black material is unlike anything I have ever seen, semi-glossed to perfection and silky to the touch. This is my new favorite cold-weather necessity.”
The Low-Frills Hooded Parka This parka boasts a 550-fill-power down insulation, making it great for super cold conditions. And, as reviewers mentioned, it’s not so puffy that it also allows you to be mobile while behind the wheel. Best For: Sub-zero temperatures The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 434 reviews on nordstrom.com WhatThey’re Saying: “I got this for myself and started wearing it on Christmas day. It was 10 below zero. That weather continued for 10 days. Every part of me that was covered by the coat was warm. I knew it was cold because my legs and hands were cold but my body was warm. I couldn’t believe it. This is the best coat ever! I have been wearing it continually since Christmas and I have no complaints. And it is so lightweight and so easy to move in. Also so comfortable in the car.”
The Trend-Forward Parka
This puffer comes from Madewell, so you know it’s got some stylish features like dolman sleeves, patch pockets, and a secret pocket for your phone. Best For: Eco-conscious shoppers (the insulation is made from 20 recycled plastic bottles) The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 30 reviews on madewell.com What They’re Saying: “I have never written a review about anything ever but oh my god this jacket. It is a dream. I live in a freezing cold climate and this jacket keeps me dry and SO warm. And it is so stinking cute. Do yourself a favor and just buy it!!! I’m 5’7” and 140 pounds and the medium is definitely slightly large but I think that’s the style and I couldn’t go any smaller. I love love love.”
The Flight Jacket-Inspired Parka
It’s all in the details — there’s a partial faux fur lining on the inside, a snorkel hood, a front storm flap, storm cuffs, tortoiseshell buttons, and Alpha Industries’ signature “Remove Before Flight” red tag on the sleeve. Best For: Utilitarian features, extreme cold weather The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars and 6 reviews on alphaindustries.com What They’re Saying: “The jacket is perfect for low temperatures. Very comfortable to drive, due to the style of its sleeves. Excellent quality! Very happy with my purchase.”
The Toasty-Hood Parka
There are a lot of insulation features centered around the neck and head on this parka — you’ll find plushy stuff lining the inner collar and hood. The rest of the parka is also lined, with half down and half feather fill. Best For: A solid parka for around $100 The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 103 reviews on nordstromrack.com What They’re Saying: “This coat had been fantastic for PNW winter and spring soccer and baseball games. It’s windproof and waterproof and the hood is also toasty. I ordered this and the north face coats and this one has a better silhouette and is less boxy.”
The Amazon Parka With A Cult Following
With nearly 19K reviews and a rating of 4.4 stars, this Orolay jacket is a true runaway hit on Amazon. And, with a body fill of 90% duck down/10% duck feather and an extra-dense polyester density for windy days, it’s not hard to see why people can’t stop raving about this parka. Best For: A highly rated option from Amazon The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 18,979 reviews on amazon.com What They’re Saying: “I love this jacket — no tightness, no wind getting from under the jacket, and no fabric stretching! I like the pockets, which can store my phone, purse, gloves, camera, and every other necessity for an outdoor trip. And it’s super warm. I wore it with only a t-shirt and leggings and went outdoors when there was moderate snow and the temperature was -3 Celcius or 27 Fahrenheit outdoors. The surface is water-resistant and the snow glides away on the surface.”
The Premium, Cold-Weather Parka
The price tag isn’t cheap, but that’s because this durable parka is meant to keep you forever warm. Insulating materials include a G-1000 Original and G-1000 HeavyDuty shell (a blend of polyester and cotton), a 100% nylon lining, and a Supreme Micoloft polyester padding. To top it all off, 500-fill down is filled in between. Best For: A 500-fill down without the bulk The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars and 6 reviews on backcountry.com What They’re Saying: “Love this coat, ordered it just in time to keep me covered for the long, below-freezing temps we’ve been having for weeks on end. Fit is spot on for me, I am 5’7″ 129 lbs and wear a medium in most tops and jackets. This thing left me with enough room for a sweater underneath without binding. It has a flattering fit also.”
The Snow Athlete’s Down Jacket Perfect for getting active in, this sporty jacket from Columbia is made with responsibly sourced 550-fill-power down, an outer shell with thermal reflective technology that is both breathable and waterproof, and underarm venting that lets you air out your pits.
Best For: Snowsports like skiing and snowboarding The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 176 reviews on rei.com What They’re Saying: “I love the way this jacket forms to the curve of the waist so that it isn’t boxy, but very flattering to a female shape. I wore this jacket skiing at a temperature ranging from 15-40 degrees Fahrenheit; I was perfectly comfortable with a very light base layer under the jacket. I think the fur around the hood adds a classy touch and I intend to buy this jacket in another color. I am very impressed with the quality and price of this jacket.”
The Booty-Covering Snowboard Jacket
If you’re looking for an action-ready parka that extends past your hips and butt, this insulated bestseller from Burton is a great choice. It’s made with recycled insulation, a breathable and waterproof outer fabric, and plenty of nifty features like a removable waist gaiter. Best For: Outdoor sporting, but with more coverage The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 117 reviews on burton.com What They’re Saying: “If you like a longer jacket, this is for you. It’s perfect for not getting snow in anywhere. The hooded part when you zip it up even has extra so it’s not super tight in the neck part. Perfect for U.P. winters. All in all I 100% recommend for everyday use!”
The Fleece-Lined Satin Parka
This mid-length parka is perfect if you can’t decide between a shorter jacket or a longer one. It’s stuffed with 500-fill-power down, has a fleece lining, hand-warming pockets on the side, and has a gorgeous overall satin sheen. Best For: A midi-length coverage The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars and 275 reviews on nordstromrack.com What They’re Saying: “I needed a very warm jacket for a trip to Park City this January and this did the trick. It kept me perfectly comfortable in the cold weather, without making me sweaty hot. Plus side is that the pockets are lined with some kind of fleece that help to keep your hands warm, which is great as I have Raynaud’s and my hands quickly react to cold temps. Fit true to size — I am a size 4, and got the small. Still has plenty of room for big chunky sweaters underneath.”
The Best Parka For Everyday Wear Don’t be fooled by the non-bulky silhouette — this parka can still handle extreme wetness and wind, although, this is probably best suited for everyday errands rather than weekend hiking trips. And, when this coat needs cleaning, you can simply toss it in the washer and drier. Best For: Light-to-moderate activities The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars and 2,750 reviews on llbean.com What They’re Saying: “Loved it so much that I bought a second one for our second house in northwest Indiana. My first house is in Chicago so I can’t get away from cold weather. Comfortable for me from about 10°F to 50°F. When it is warmer I merely unzip the coat and it works just fine. As far as the zippers go, there was a bit of a learning curve. You have to match everything up carefully. My experience has been that any garment that unzips from the bottom is trickier to operate. Nevertheless, I find it very convenient, especially in the longer garments.”
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