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16 Classic Wool Coats Under $500

Sometimes, a simple beige coat is the way to go. Photo-Illustration: by The Cut; Photos:Hanna Flanagan

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On the chillest days of the year, nothing will keep you warmer than a good coat, but extra-cozy outerwear like sweatpants and puffer coats, sometimes comes off as schlumpy. That’s where a classic wool coat comes in. It’s the smart basic that you can throw over any work outfit. But if yours is starting to look a little worse for the wear, or you’re just in the mood for a new version, you don’t necessarily have to splurge on a new winter wool coat. In fact, there are plenty of stylish and good quality options for $400 or less. But if you’re not sure where to begin, we’ve rounded up some tips to guide you in your search for the wool coat that’s right for you and your winter wardrobe.

So whether you want to diverge from your classic camel coat, want a classic shape and pattern, an oversize option, or something with personality, scroll ahead to shop our wool coat favorites.

So, you’re looking for the best affordable wool coat?

➼ Our top picks
➼ More tried-and-true options
➼ FAQs

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Our Top Picks

The Cozy Cocoon

Photo: Hanna Flanagan
Photo: Retailer

Sizes: XXS–XXL | Materials: 78% virgin wool, 12% polyamide, 10% cashmere | Colors: 6

If you need a tailored option for formal events, consider this wool coat from Aritzia that features a sleek, streamlined silhouette and hidden buttons. I wore it to a wedding this weekend and was able to keep my coat on throughout cocktail hour to stay warm — without feeling underdressed. The cocoon neckline also makes it easy to achieve the always-chic “Olsen tuck” without having to wear a scarf.

The Classic Wrap Coat

Photo: Hanna Flanagan

Sizes: U.K. 4–22 | Materials: 55% recycled wool, 22% polyester, 20% polyester | Colors: 4

This everyday wrap coat has been in heavy rotation for me all winter long. It’s so warm and cozy but never looks or feels bulky, which is what all wool coats should strive for, in my opinion. Even my lazy sweatsuit outfits look polished and put together when I wear them, thanks to the thick cuffs and large lapels.

The New Double Breasted

Photo: Hanna Flanagan
Photo: Retailer

Sizes: XXS–L | Materials: 70% recycled wool, 12% recycled polyamide, 18% polyamide | Colors: 3

I don’t usually gravitate toward double-breasted coats because they tend to be a bit too stiff and preppy for my liking. This one, though, is slightly oversize and features a menswear-inspired cut that makes it look effortlessly cool. Even though it’s not the warmest wool coat in my closet, I love layering heavy sweaters and turtlenecks underneath.

The Hooded Wool Coat

Photo: Retailer

Sizes: XXS–L| Materials: 100% RWS wool | Colors: 1

Cozy and oversize, this hooded coat is perfect for days when you really just want to wear a hoodie but the weather requires a coat. It’s double faced, fully lined, and made from 100 percent responsibly sourced wool.

Because Brown Is Trending

Sizes: 2XS–XL | Materials: 80% virgin wool, 20% nylon | Colors: 9

If you haven’t already heard, brown is the new black — especially for the fall-winter season. Sport the trend with this sophisticated peaked lapel coat that’s made of melton wool. With a vegan chamois lining, it’s constructed to keep you cozy in cold temperatures.

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More Tried-and-True Options

The Cropped Cream Coat

Photo: Vendor

Sizes: 2–14 | Materials: 75% recycled wool, 25% polyamide | Colors: 2

It’s always a great idea to break up the dark winter tones with something light, and a cream-colored coat is one great way to do that. This waist-tailored coat features a stylish shawl collar is double-breasted with tortoise buttons. The James Coat is a great option for when you want a dresser style coat that can appear more formal, especially when you don’t want something long.

If All You Want Is a Good Black Coat

Sizes: 2XS–2XL | Materials: 71% camel hair, 21% virgin wool, 8% polyamide | Colors: 2

A classic black coat is essential for every wardrobe. This popular style from Aritzia is similar to the COS style above and features a slouchy-chic silhouette that isn’t too heavy and is perfect for fall layering.

If You’re Into Gray Instead

Photo: Vendor

Sizes: XXS–XXL | Materials: 50% recycled wool, 40% polyester, 10% other | Colors: 2

This Banana Republic style is another great wrap-coat option for those who don’t want black or beige. Not only do we love the heather-gray hue, this is a wrap coat that looks just as good without the removable belt as it does with. Use the belt for chiller days when you want to feel extra bundled, or simply throw it on and wear the single-breasted style open for an easy, more casual look.

The Under-$200 Find

Photo: Vendor

Sizes: XS–XL | Materials: 80% Italian wool, 20% nylon | Colors: 7

Who doesn’t love a good deal? Especially when it’s on a product, like a wool coat that you’d normally have to spend more money on for better quality. But that’s not the case with this classic Quince coat. Made of Italian Melton Wool, the tailored design is a necessary add to your fall wardrobe. Complete with a traditional notched lapel and single-button closure, you can’t beat the sleek style (or the price) of this five-star-rated coat.

The Short Stylish One

$86
Photo: Vendor

Sizes: S–L | Materials: 53% wool, 28% polyester, 14% acrylic, 4% polyamide, 1% cotton | Colors: 1

If you’re in the market for an elevated peacoat, try this Mango double-breasted option. The short style has a classic peacoat construction with broad, sharp shoulders and thick, pointed lapels. But the boxy design gets a modern twist with its Bottega-like woven buttons that add a certain je ne sais quoi to the otherwise typical jacket style.

The Trendy Blanket One

Photo: Vendor

Sizes: One size | Materials: 47% wool, 44% polyester, 5% acrylic, 3% nylon, 1% rayon | Colors: 1

Looking for a cloak coat in the style of The Row but without the hefty price tag? Try this trendy design from Helsa. The atypical blanket-coat style features wide bell sleeves, front patch pockets, and a thick removable waist tie for closure. Use the belt for the complete snatch-waist closed look or wear without the belt and style it as a cool, drapey cloak.

The One That Gives Rich-Mom Energy

$188
Photo: Vendor

Sizes: 2XS–2XL | Materials: 95% virgin wool, 5% nylon | Colors: 6

This coat is already on the wish list of a few Cut team editors for the season. If you want to exude “rich mom” without the high-end price tag, you too should add this coat to your list. The stylish wrap, coat features a sharp funnel neck, a removable tie belt, and a extra plush suede interlining for added warmth and wind protection. The Connor coat is minimal, but not understated, classic and chic. You’ll truly look and feel like a million bucks.

The Pretty Plaid Option

Photo: Vendor

Sizes: 0–12 | Materials: 58% polyester, 15% acrylic, 27% wool | Colors: 1

For a fun and colorful addition to your cold-weather wardrobe, we love this Marant Etoile checkered coat. The relaxed silhouette style is an easy throw-on option perfect for those chilly, but not too chilly, fall days when all you need is lightweight jacket layer to keep you cozy. Not to mention the coat’s deep fall colors that will blend into any autumnal scene. Great for any apple-picking and pumpkin-carving events.

The Surprise Favorite

From $162

Sizes: 0–18 | Materials: 60% Wool, 33% polyester, 5% cashmere | Colors: 8

When a wool coat costs $200, it’s fair to be skeptical, but if reviews are any indication, this coat is a surprise winner. It has a timeless silhouette that’s perfect to wear for any occasion.

The Dad Coat

Photo: Vendor

Sizes: 2XS–2XL | Materials: 51% wool, % 49 polyester | Colors: 4

If you love a good boyfriend sweater, then this old-school dad-style Abercrombie coat is for you. The herringbone fabric gives vintage ’70s dad blazer vibes but in tailored-jacket form.

The Good Sale Find

Sizes: 00–12 | Materials: 55% wool, 45% recycled polyester | Colors: 3

For this sharp mid-length peacoat style, you’d normally have to shell out about $800. But now you can score this double-breasted design for a fraction of the price. This deep-bordeaux colorway is a rich hue that isn’t just black or gray, plus it goes with the fall jewel-tone aesthetic.

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FAQs

How can I get a bang for my buck?

The key is to focus on the fabric percentages. Obviously, if the coat is made from only wool, nothing to question. But if it’s a wool-blend coat, aim for the material composition to be at least 50 percent or more wool, or look for the inclusion of other warm quality fabrics like cashmere, so you can get the bang for your buck without sacrificing your limbs to the cold.

What is the best color for a wool coat?

Color is always a personal preference, but it’s no surprise that people often gravitate toward darker shades in the fall-winter months. Sure, having a wool coat in black or gray is always versatile, and probably forever classic. But if you want to diverge from the winter wardrobe darkness, brighten up your coat closet with some colorful wool coat options and even some winter whites or cream colors. You don’t have to have a rainbow of coats (though that is an ambition of some), but why not have a versatile assortment? You know, one black wool for everyday and one spicy red for special occasions.

How do I take care of my wool coat?

Make sure to double-check the recommendations for washing the coat before attempting that first clean. Either read the tag or the material and cleaning details on line before ordering to know if you have to take it to the dry cleaners or if you can wash it at home. (Although it’s pretty safe to say the majority of wool coats will need to be dry cleaned). In addition to cleaning, there are other care protocols such as de-wrinkling, fabric care, etc, that you want to make sure of before, let’s say, putting a hot iron on a coat that can only take low heat and damaging the fibers.

16 Classic Wool Coats Under $500