Winter is by far not my favorite season; adults don’t get snow days, and the older I get, the more I feel those Arctic winds in my bones. The silver lining to this less-than-ideal time of year is all of the outwear trends from which to choose to complete your look!
As we switch from light-jacket-no-sweater season to sweater-and-a-huge-coat-and-even-scarf season, it’s time to consider which coats will see us through spring. Here’s a rundown of this winter’s biggest coat trends.
First up, maxi coats. These are typically tailored topcoats with a maxi hemline; however, you can find down/puffy versions. This floor-length topper pairs chicly with skirts as well as pants while shielding the legs from chilly winds. For maximum coverage and warmth, check out Lands’ End’s Women’s Down Maxi Winter Coat that extends to mid-calf for cozy comfort past the knees and zippered vents for ease of movement. If you’re looking for a dressier take on this trend, try Express’s Maxi Buttoned Trench Coat, which comes in the bold shade of Neon Berry or classic tones of swan and emerald, perfect over your holiday party dress.
Scarf coats are easily the most season-defining item for this upcoming winter. It’s impossible not to look chic and put-together in one of these matching scarf-and-coat sets. Amazon seller Abehla has a Woolen Coat with loose long sleeves and a tassel scarf. I love the off-white scallop-like trim and deep pockets. This coat would add polish to a casual look or give a midcentury vintage flair to your weekday uniform. Or check out Bloomingdale’s Aqua brand Scarf Collar Coat with a round neck and detachable scarf that comes in black ‘n white plaid or camel. If you’re looking to treat yourself and put a spin on this style, there’s the scarf-attached Clare Cape from PBS’s shop. Wear this with some corduroy trousers and hiking boots, and you’d be all set as an extra on Masterpiece Theatre.
Too often, many of us default to black for winter outerwear. Gray is the new black this season and couldn’t be better suited for a great wool coat. This slightly-less-dark neutral adds a nice dimension to cold-weather looks that can often come across as feeling drab. Macy’s DKNY Asymmetrical Belted Funnel-Neck coat comes in light gray and features a sash belt. I love the idea of replacing a sash belt with a leather belt, especially if you’re out and about keeping your coat on; it’s more of a look. Zara also offers a Belted Wool Blend coat in gray with a wide lapel, perfect for holiday broaches, and a longer length that hits right around the same length as a midi party dress.
Just because the weather is turning from crisp to cold doesn’t mean that leather outerwear is slowing down. In fact, leather coats with sleek, long hems and tailored silhouettes are right on track for an edgier take on your winter-weather outfits. ModCloth’s Out From The Shadows Trench Coat gives off a ’90’s gothic feel to the most basic of looks. Eloquii’s Faux Leather Contract Panel Coat adds a ’60’s mod vibe to workwear.
Wax jackets, aka barn coats, are also on trend this season and offer a more rugged aesthetic take on outerwear. I love the idea of playing against type and pairing this outdoorsy coat with a floral dress and stiletto, knee-high boots, or leaning into the preppy vibe with khakis, a button-down, a v-neck sweater, and ankle boots. J.Crew has a Heritage Barn Jacket made in weatherproof waxed cotton twill that hits mid-thigh and features a gold zipper and snaps. While L.L. Bean offers an Adirondack Barn Coat lined with flannel and touting a broken-in softness, so it’s ready to wear with all your wintry looks.
Last up, faux shearling coats. This style will always have a place in the winterwear lineup. That being said, fuzzy statement toppers are not my personal cup of tea. But I’m a professional and I’d be remiss in my duties by ignoring this trend. So, I can admit that a more minimalist approach, in a collarless silhouette, can be palatable and quite wearable when paired with a silky blouse and dress trousers. While not an everyday item, H&M’s Teddy Fleece Jacket certainly has its place on the holiday party circuit. Meanwhile, Sam Edelman’s Faux Shearling Coat, with its faux-suede lining, has some appeal, especially if you’re looking to mix in a luxe ’70’s aesthetic over a wide-leg jean and tissue turtleneck. Keep it groovy with platform boots or more low-key with a chunky sneaker.
So, as the crispness of fall turns to a harsher nip in the air, something to look forward to are the many opportunities (and by opportunities, I mean coats) to wrap ourselves in as we face the weather ahead. While some of these options are more pricey than others, remember winter outerwear is an investment. If you skimp, you’ll be shivering, so take some time to consider your best option since it’ll be on your back all winter long.
