Best Winter Coats for Every Type of Weather
There’s nothing worse than styling a perfectly executed outfit just to have to hide it under a big, frumpy winter coat on your way out of the door! Since it’s coat weather in so many places right now, I thought I’d share this guide to some favorite winter coats, as well as the best places to shop for outwear. This list has a full round-up of the best winter coats for every type of weather (even those of you who reside in warmer climates like me). Lots of coats and jackets are currently on sale, so now is a wonderful time to pick up a new one!
Don’t forget to check out this post with the most comfortable boots for older ladies and grab a great pair of boots to match your new winter coat.
For Warm Weather Climates
Denim Jacket
A FEW SEED PEARL NECKLACES – SAVE 20% WITH CODE AWSL20 AT CHECKOUT
You can find me wearing denim jackets all year long (except for in the hottest weather). They’re durable, low-maintenance, and perfect for cooler weather. Recently, denim jacket silhouettes have been getting longer, which is helpful for wearing over tunics and longer tops. You can’t go wrong with a classic one like this one from J. Crew. I’m particularly fond of denim jackets with no band at the waist, like my current favorite by Kut From The Kloth. They’re comfier around the tummy, and the shorter length is petite-friendly. Plus, they look great layered over a longer top.
Rain Jacket
If you live in a climate where it often rains, like Florida or the Pacific Northwest, you should consider investing in a rain jacket. A great rain jacket (like this one from LL Bean) offers protection from the elements while still being stylish! The one I’m wearing above is from Kate Spade and is no longer available, but here is their current version.
Trench Coat
I’ve been wearing trench coats for 30+ years, and I have no plans to stop anytime soon. The longer length makes them ideal for layering over a dress, but I also love wearing them with pants or jeans. The key to a smart-looking trench is finding one with flattering seams and a belt that hits the right spot on your torso. A good quality trench coat will last you for years and years. You can spend a small or large fortune on the quintessential trench, but you can also get the same look and excellent quality at a price your wallet will love. This one I’m wearing is an affordable classic trench coat from Kohl’s that will rival ones costing thousands more.
Moto Jacket
Another great option for milder winter weather is a moto jacket! I really like the asymmetrical front-zip look that many offer because the diagonal line has a slimming effect. They’ve made a few changes to the jacket since I purchased it several years ago, but it’s still very similar. I think this material is more elegant and softer looking than leather (faux or real), and its lack of shine is more flattering against most women’s complexion.
Vests
While not a winter coat, they are the perfect option for mild winter climates. Not only do vests add an extra layer of warmth, but they also allow you to showcase your favorite sweaters and blouses without hiding them under a bulky coat. They come in a variety of materials, from cozy fleece and elegant wool to warm puffers, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They often have practical features like pockets for keeping hands warm or carrying small essentials. I love this featherless puffer vest from Athleta and have been living in this Vuori insulated vest from Nordstrom.
Lightweight Jacket
This whisper featherless wrap jacket comes in two colors. It’s made from recycled Thinsulate™ insulation that keeps you warm without the bulk. It’s long enough to cover your backside when you sit down, which is important in cool temperatures.
Coats for Colder Weather Climates
Faux Fur Jacket
Faux fur jackets add a touch of glamour to any outfit and are surprisingly warm. The downside is that fur adds visual weight to your torso. To combat this, I look for seaming to help slim it down, much like in a puffer jacket. Buttons, hoods, and zippers make furry jackets and coats look more casual and sporty.
MORE FAUX FUR COATS
Packable Down Coat
If you live in a warmer location but find yourself traveling to a colder destination, then you know how annoying it is trying to pack a bulky winter coat into your luggage. Have you ever tried a packable down coat like this one from Land’s End? It is shockingly compact and folds to fit into the tiny travel bag, making it the ultimate space saver!
Wool Coat
Wool Coats are one of those staple wardrobe pieces that many women rely on when the temperature dips, and for a good reason! They’re classic and warm and finish off a look without competing with your outfit or accessories. This camel-colored double-breasted one is as classic as can be, with a timeless appeal.
I joined the waitlist for this charcoal-colored Italian wool coat from Quince, which looks right up my alley! I love everything I’ve tried from Quince so far, so I expect this will be great. Their quality is high, and the prices are very reasonable.
If you aren’t a fan of black or tan…this one from Calvin Klein comes in 11 colors!
MORE WOOL WINTER COATS
Leather Coats
Leather coats and jackets are not my go-to, but it wouldn’t be a true round-up without including them. Many people have moved on from real to faux leather versions these days, which seem more plentiful.
THE BEST PLACES TO SHOP FOR WINTER COATS
Is it cold where you live? Do you have a favorite place to shop for outerwear? Let me know in the comments!
I live three hour south of Boulder county in Fremont County, CO. It is 33 degrees and going down and looks like a snow globe outside right now. I have a lot of coats mostly down or fleece lined. My thigh length navy blue down coat with faux fur around the hood is from LL Bean a few years ago but it is my dressy coat. All the rest are hip length from, LandsEnd, North Face and Patagonia. Some are pretty old but still loo and feel like new. I gave away my wool dress coat because I was always cold in it. You look great in all of your coat choices.
Thanks for this post. Coats and shoes represent my two biggest shopping challenges.
I live in Chicago, where winter can be brutal (although less so for the past few years). For dress occasions, I rely on two Eileen Fisher long wool coats- one in grey and the other in a beautiful blue and black plaid. When the temps really dip, both require a vest underneath. For everyday cold weather, my Soia & Kyo long puffer is my long time companion. It suits me because the channels are more subtle than many other puffers and it hits at just above my knees, so my Apple shape doesn’t turn into a ball.
Great post on the coats. You look great in all of them. I used to wear the long coats, but lately have enjoyed more the 3/4 length or hip length. The trench coat is the only one I have not worn for some time maybe because I am petite. So enjoy your posts.
I love 3/4 lemgth coats too
I have a lovely charcoal wool chesterfield with black velvet collar that I’ve had forever. I take very good care of it because I can’t bear to think of being without it. Definitely my “dress up” coat for winter. No recollection of the source but it’s really “me.” That said, I actually spend most days in Eddie Bauer or LLBean coats, as they are indestructible and versatile for life in Colorado. Pondering a trench, but nor sure it’s right for my lifestyle.
Thank you for another thoughtful post. Variable weather means needing several coats throughout the year. When we spend so much time in coats, it can feel like that’s the only thing people see. Making a good choice for functionality and style is important. These are the kinds of coats I look for. Thanks to your readers for their suggestions, too. A few of my coats are on their way to someone who needs them. They served me well. Quality outerwear without spending a fortune? Count me in!
I live in cold, but sunny Colorado! Boulder County has a pretty casual, and sporty vibe. There’s not a whole lot of dressing up going on. I don’t see trench coats, or wool coats often. As it happens, I’m very sensitive to wool, so I don’t miss it.
I, and every other woman I know has a full length down or primaloft parka. Mine is forest green. That’s what I’d throw on for going out.
I wear a Patagonia down sweater to the gym, and for walking and errands.
I have a few vintage coats that I love. One is an Obermeyer down ski jacket with an all over edelweiss print, and embroidered details, with a velvet lined collar and faux fur edged hood. Super cozy!
Another is a faux fur Patagonia in pink.
I do of course own different jackets, both more and less dressy!
It sounds like you own a great collection.
These are all great coats. Living in the NW we wear coats year round. I have so many of all different kinds but I always want more!
I found the perfect coat @ Banana Republic: midi length, tie belt, detachable faux fur collar, removable lining, a nice shade of charcoal & best off all, washable. It is not wool but looks like it. Extremely versatile, great for urban travel & comes in petite.
Was perfect for going into NYC theater, dinner, etc.
My other go to travel coat is the Eddie Bauer girl on the go trench. It repels water, has a hood & detachable lining. Also comes in petite.
I have brought it on many trips including going into NYC, frequent trips to DC, & a cross country road trip (NY-AZ) earlier this year from Feb-March with rainy, windy weather.
The Land’s End packable coat is my go to coat for everyday wear. I overheat easily. It is not bulky & just the right amount of insulation for running errands or going to the gym. Just not happy lately with their LE color selections.
Those sound wonderful! More and more I need petite coats but if they have a belt or waist shaping I struggle. I’ll check for that trench. It sounds perfect.
Wonderful thorough post. I want them all! This is definitely one to bookmark and refer back to often. I think it’s time to go through all of my coats and jackets and consider what really works for me. As with everything else, I have way too many, and probably some were bought without much thought. I like what you said about seaming, and I also love how you’ve styled everything. They all look fabulous on you!
I just donated a few of my coats. This is the time people need them and it’s too easy to hold onto ones I never wear.
I totally agree. It’s a great time of the year to “weed out” unworn sweaters, too.