Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Keep The Cold At Bay With The Trendiest Winter Jackets & Coats For Women

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Winter jackets are practical, but the best ones aren’t a supporting act — they’re the main character, serving as the outfit. That’s why we’re all about layering up in outerwear that delivers warmth and wow factor. Whether you’re leaning into the coziness of a sherpa coat or the sporty edge of a puffer, the right winter topper can transform even the simplest look into a moment.

This season, the top coat is getting a modern twist with ladylike details and cape silhouettes, while classics like suede jackets and wool coats hold their ground (though not without fresh updates — we see you, scarf jackets). Trends like the utilitarian barn jacket and bombers are vying for the spotlight, too, feeling particularly on-point in less brutal climates. (Hello, LA winter.) As far as specific items go, fan favorites like the Aritzia slouch coat, the North Face puffer, and Lululemon puffer jacket prove that staying warm doesn’t mean compromising on style. For those craving luxe touches, a Zara fur coat, teddy-like UGG coat, and Barbour wax jacket offer elevated spins on seasonal staples.

Whether you’re bundling up, keeping it tailored, or planning out party outfits, our picks ahead make braving the cold downright fun.

Faux-Fur Coats

Nothing says winter glamour like a faux-fur coat. From Zara’s cropped silhouette to Ganni’s playful leopard print, these jackets balance boldness with cozy comfort. They’re perfect for pairing with denim or a party dress.

Puffer Jackets

The puffer jacket is a winter essential that’s equal parts cozy and cool. From The North Face’s iconic 1996 Retro Nuptse to Lululemon’s sleek transformable design and Hollister’s faux-fur-lined option, these go with everything, from comfy travel pants to festive outfits (or sweats when you’re keeping it lounge-y). Fully lean into the vibe with coordinating puffer boots — bold, baby. 

Sherpa Coats

Sherpa coats bring a plush, textural twist to cold-weather layering. From statement designs like Oak + Fort’s checkered style to timeless teddy silhouettes like UGG’s Gertrude, they’re ideal for adding warmth and personality to your winter wardrobe. And if you’ve been eyeing the ever-popular Aritzia wool coats, a nubby sherpa version is the ultimate upgrade.

Barn Jackets

The barn jacket brings a workwear-inspired twist to winter wardrobes. From Barbour’s classic waxed version to Alex Mill’s modern red take, these balance pragmatism and style. We love them layered over chunky knits or paired with tailored separates for contrast.

Ladylike Wool Coats

Curved lines, sharp collars, and sleek details give classic wool coats a fresh spin this season. Look at Reformation’s bow-tied jacket or Madewell’s bold red design — they’re ladylike, minimal, and anything but boring (especially if you go bold by styling yours alongside the dress-over pants trend). 

Leather Coats

Leather coats are a closet mainstay for a reason: They do the most (in a good way). Plush-lined styles (like Abercrombie’s utility trucker) bring serious warmth for frigid days, while lightweight options (like Wray’s vegan leather blazer) are just the thing for milder temps.

Cape Coats

Cape coats are one of those runway trends that are actually wearable IRL. From Dôen’s plaid take to Banana Republic’s bright red number (hitting two trends at once), these styles deliver drama with a polished sensibility.

Scarf Coats

Scarf coats are multitaskers, keeping you warm without the fuss of extra layers. They’re a great outfit hack for dialing up any look — even jeans and sweatsuits.

Suede Jackets

Suede jackets are stepping it up with fun, vibrant shades this winter, like Urban Outfitters’ cobalt blue style. A classic refreshed for those who like their layers with a little more personality.

Bomber Jackets

Bomber jackets are getting a sport-luxe makeover with padded and quilted designs (perfect for brisk chills), slouchy faux leather (bonus points for trendy colors like burgundy), and even reversible options (who doesn’t love a two-fer?). Style them over clingy knits with jeans and a statement belt for an “I tried, but not too hard” nonchalance.

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This holiday season, we’ve found the gifts that feel great to get and even better to give. Shop Well-Received, our collection of editor-approved holiday gift guides, here.

Whether you’re buying fashion presents for your entire extended family or just your nearest and dearest, you likely have a holiday shopping budget. Keeping that in mind, we sourced style-minded gifts for every price range. From a $30 bag charm (a major trend this year!) to $350+ silk sleepwear, these gift ideas will delight any fashion-loving recipient, regardless of the number on the tag. 

We’ve included a range of coveted accessories (see: trendy sneakers and statement jewelry) and winter clothing (including oversized scarves and some of the season’s most exciting designer collaborations), plus, unexpected and super-aesthetic homeware (like coffee table books and quirky vases).

So, whether you’re looking for under-$50 finds for friends and coworkers or are ready to splurge on a luxury gift for that special someone, tick people off your gifting list here. 

Fashion Gifts Under $50

If you’ve been searching for luxe gifts that only look expensive, we’ve got you — from Western styles and leopard-printed earmuffs to jelly shoes that hit on 2024’s biggest trend list. Want to elevate your giftee’s everyday accessories and tech? Cart up a bag charm (maybe several for a stacked moment) or a phone case in a trending cow print. 

Fashion Gifts Under $150

With a slightly roomier budget, you can snag a pair of ever-popular Adidas Sambas sneakers or a limited-edition Christopher John Rogers x J.Crew hat. You can also explore higher-quality jewelry and premium sweatshirts. For the fashion-obsessed, expand their “Little Book Of” series with a new addition. And, if you want something more tongue-in-cheek for the most in-the-know, consider an heirloom tomato-scented candle that nods to this year’s viral Loewe tomato moment.

Fashion Gifts Under $350

An increased price range brings more options worthy of your dollars. Help your giftee explore the must-have barn jacket trend — or, rather than clutching their pearls from being on the receiving end of an underwhelming present, they’ll love a vase that’s cinched with pearls. We’ve also curated accessories like statement belts, leather watches, silk headbands, and furry scarves from fashion insider-approved brands.

Fashion Gifts Under $500

For that special someone in your life, there are endless splurge-worthy luxury gift possibilities. Our top picks under $500 include celebrity-approved sunglasses and playful handbags. If a Gucci or Dior bag is out of budget, consider gifting them a perfume or glassware set from their favorite luxury brand instead. For out-of-range men’s watches, a sterling silver bangle is a trendy alternative.

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All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.

From Mocha Mousse and leopard-printed everything to slouchy jackets and holiday ruffles, there are so many playful styles to test out this winter. But perhaps the most adorable — and divisive — trend right now brings together two of the season’s most reliable pieces, puffers and boots.

Yes, you read that right: The go-to cold-weather shoe has been reimagined with the cushy material most frequently seen in outerwear. Puffer boots have been popping up for a few years now, as shoppers rediscover Moon Boots and brands reimagine the après-ski look. (We’ve gotten iterations from Prada, Proenza Schouler, and Balenciaga, and celebrity endorsements from Rihanna, Hailey Bieber, and Normani.) They really gained traction as a Fall/Winter 2024 shoe trend, and have become an unexpectedly versatile cozy season essential. From casual, chunky snow boots to elevated, shiny nylon heeled styles, there are many more iterations than you might think. 

Personally excited to try this look, I tested out Naturalizer x Think Royln water-repellent puffer bootie, which comes with detachable insulated puffer leg warmers… with pockets. I wore them for different winter and holiday activities. Below, the results: Whether you’re looking to upgrade your winter wardrobe with a fun twist — or are shopping for a last-minute fashion gift — read on to see how to style puffer boots, and which ones we’re eyeing on the market right now.

How To Style Puffer Boots For Elevated Holiday Dinners

While puffer boots can err on the casual end of the footwear spectrum, this particular style — with its shiny, sleek exterior — was begging to be brought out for dinners and parties, sans leg warmers. I found out quickly that the easiest way to style puffer boots was to play with a lot of texture: I opted for a velvet top, corduroy skirt, studded shoulder bag, and sheer tights for a holiday party — although, I wish I had dug out my black-and-gold sparkly Sheertex tights for extra texture and dimension. A pair of red ribbed socks were the finishing touch to complement the red heel, which felt appropriately festive.

How To Style Puffer Boots For Casual Holiday Shopping Days

If you’re looking to keep your toes warm during outdoor winter activities, like Christmas light tours and holiday market shopping, puffer boots are a solid, stylish alternative. For a day of the latter, I opted to add the leg warmers for a knee-high boot look, which provided both coverage and warmth. While I picked a Free People puffer jacket, fuzzy sweater, and mini skort, I can also see myself styling these with an even puffier puffer coat and leggings, for a more casual winter ‘fit.

How To Style Puffer Boots For Office Days & Holiday Work Parties

If you were doubting the viability of puffer boots in the workplace, I’m here to shut that thought down. Again going for a textural, monochromatic look, I pulled out my Alexa Chung x Madewell corduroy blazer and trousers to match the luxe and drama of the booties. I promise I didn’t get any side-eyes — I actually felt confident and comfortable. I think a pair of neutral-colored or heeled boots are your best bet for an elevated puffer shoe that can be worn from the office to the work holiday party. 

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