I’m ashamed to admit that I used to hate wearing coats. In second grade, I cried because the jacket my mom made me wear didn’t match my Halloween costume. My family teased me about this little anecdote for years — every time I was inappropriately dressed for the temperature outside because I refused to ruin my outfit with outerwear.
It may have taken more than 20 years, but I’m proud to say I’m now a reformed coat-hater, with the maturity to fully grasp the layering opportunities and styling complexities that come with wearing a beautiful coat. These days, I consider outerwear to fall within the same category as handbags and boots — in other words, coats are items worth investing in because they have the singular ability to enhance an outfit. Now that it’s finally cold enough, I’m excited to pull out my favorite jackets and coats from seasons past, plus find new ones that will add value to any look. My seven-year-old self could never!
Suede Jacket
My algorithm has been all chocolate suede everything this season — on bags, shoes, and, of course, outerwear. It’s safe to say I’ve been #influenced big time. In the jacket department, I like the timeless double-breasted silhouette of this one; it strikes the perfect balance between classic and on-trend, and you can wear it more tailored with the waist tie or loose and oversized without it.
Puffer Jacket
A puffer jacket is a must-have cold-weather item for its sheer warmth and versatility. This one has a relaxed fit that makes it perfect for throwing over everything from loungewear to workwear. Plus, it’s made out of recycled nylon sourced from post-consumer waste.
Long Barn Jacket
If you, like me, have been fully swept up in the barn jacket madness of 2024, this version offers a bit of an unexpected take on the trend with the longer length. It’s more akin to a trench coat, but still features the signature contrast collar. While brown or black have been the standard, navy feels fresh, and I like how the detail continues on the sleeves.
Scarf Coat
Scarf and cape coats made dramatic appearances all over the fall runways. They’re elevated, elegant, and true statement show-stoppers. This one comes with a removable scarf that presents multiple styling opportunities to wrap, drape, or tie as you please.
Leather Jacket
If you need an update to your leather jacket collection, allow me to introduce you to this stunning bordeaux bomber jacket. With a slightly cropped fit and subtly structured shape, it’s modern, architectural, and luxurious.
Pea Coat
The timeless peacoat has made a triumphant return this season, with many designers showcasing short, double-breasted coats in their fall collections. This cashmere one is a true classic with its above-the-knee cut, effortlessly oversized silhouette, and versatile camel color.
Short Barn Jacket
Because I couldn’t stop at just one barn jacket, here’s another option. Between the refined design and modern wide sleeves, it’s a more stylish take on the outdoorsy look.
Shearling Jacket
This hooded shearling coat is the epitome of cozy, and probably the closest you can get to wearing a blanket in public. Although unlike your go-to house blanket, it’s more stylish than schlubby, with a short, flattering length that helps balance out the volume.
Cropped Coat
I don’t wear cropped coats often, but I find that they’re perfect for pairing with high-waisted trousers and jeans, both of which I wear a lot during the fall. The appeal of this one lies in the fact that the sleeves are fully detachable, allowing it to transform from a jacket to a vest. The styling possibilities are endless.
Trench Coat
It wouldn’t be a coat round-up without a timeless trench, and you can’t get any more classic than this one. I particularly like the in-between hue that’s neither too light nor too dark, and find the price point reasonable for a piece you’ll likely have forever.
(Faux) Fur Coat
If you’re looking to add a bit of glam to your look (yes, even when you’re wearing sweatpants), a fluffy fur coat is the way to go. I appreciate how the streamlined design of this one tones down the inherent maximalism of a fur coat, and that the rich brown shade adds a bit of dimension.
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