As the temperature drops, it's important you invest in a good quality, long-lasting winter jacket that's going to stand the test of time (and the sub-zero temperatures!). In the UK, it seems that winter lasts longer than all the other seasons put together, so it's vital that you have a winter jacket that's going to get the job done properly. If you're on the lookout for the best winter coats for women, then let it be known we've put together this comprehensive guide so that the search feels less overwhelming and all the more manageable. Regardless of whether you want the warmest winter coat on offer, or just the most fashionable winter jacket available, guaranteed we've found your match made in (jacket) heaven here.
Ski season is on-trend on and off the slopes for 2022, so you'll see ski jackets popping up all over the place regardless of whether you're heading to the Alps this winter or not. Alongside this, there's been an increase in traditional "streetwear" styles making their way onto mainstream TikTok and Instagram; you'll see that practicality and style are basically one and the same at this point. We're talking a plethora of puffer coats, windproof and water-resistant jackets, and cold-weather down parkas. However, if the outerwear trend isn't for you, then rest assured there's plenty of faux-fur, quilted, wool-blend styles available (not necessarily all in the one coat, though!).
We know how the jacket or coat can make or break an outfit. After sneakers we probably decide what outfit to wear based on what coat we want to rock - and the weather doesn't always dictate this decision! Keep reading to find out which winter jackets are the best on the market for women right now, as well as some of our personal faves here at TSS.
What Makes A Good Winter Coat? A good winter coat will often use high-quality materials, such as down, wool or shearling, to provide a thick layer between you and the outside cold. Read the label or the product description in depth: even when a product is advertised as being "wool", sometimes this may mean they only contain as little as 5% wool. 95% cheap-ass polyester isn't going to keep you warm this winter. It'll just make you sweat, and not because you're warm.
Ensure that you can wear layers under your coat, too. You might buy the warmest coat known to man, but you still don't want to have to wear a t-shirt underneath in the depths of winter. Make room for a sweatshirt , even if this means sizing up to a size you normally wouldn't wear. Coat claustrophobia is a real thing, people.
Not only this though, trust us and believe it is possible to have the best of both worlds. As well as being the height of practicality, you should WANT to wear your winter coat because it's the most fashionable thing you own.
How Much Should a Winter Coat Cost? We recommend investing in a good coat, which could cost anywhere from £50 - £1000. If you've got budget for one coat and one coat only - which is most of us - then make sure it is the perfect fit and shape for you, and a colour that isn't going to go out of style too soon. Ensure that you've fallen in love with the jacket before you part with your hard-earned cash; often neutral, earthy hues are a good bet if you fancy stepping away from the typical blacks and greys.
What Makes a Warm Winter Coat? If warmth is your number one priority (wait, is it not for some?), then ensure you're not opting for a lightweight, water-repellent jacket or a thin trench coat. A puffer jacket is a good starting point. Although they might be more pricey, look for a down coat or wool-blend coat. Wool may be heavier, but it's about as warm as you get! Even some quilted coats aren't as warm as you would expect. Often they come with lightweight, thin designs that don't come as cosy as other styles.
Where Can You Find Stylish Winter Jackets? Although trends are still a thing, in 2022 there's such a variety of styles that people prefer to wear and suit. What works for one person, might not work for someone else. But it's celebrated! We're not all the same, so why should our coats be? Stylish is obviously a subjective word, but generally any high-street store is going to provide the goods. Other than this, we recommend looking at staple outdoor-wear brands, such as The North Face , Columbi , and Napapijri if you're looking for a practical and reliable coat that'll see you through the cold spell.
High street not for you? Carhartt WIP , Dickies, Stüssy , Tommy Hilfiger and even Supreme supply some brilliant outer jackets that will add to your image and keep you toasty at the same time.
The Best Down Jackets The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket
The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket Of course the classic Nuptse was going to make the list - there was never any doubt! You see these everywhere, and that's for a good reason. Stylish, functional and extremely warm, there's not a lot to dislike about The North Face Nuptse. Don't be put off by their incredible popularity at the moment, either. Thanks to the timeless design, these jackets will always be a go-to for anyone looking for a good down-filled jacket. This particular design comes with a fashionable, neutral-coloured print, as well as practical features such as the drawstring hood, dual-zip pockets, inside pockets and a boxy fit that allows for layers underneath.
Key Features:
Adjustable hood Velcro cuffs 100% waterproof Nylon 90% down Patagonia Silent Down Jacket
Patagonia Silent Down Jacket Patagonia claim that this is one of the most comfortable and softest jackets they've ever made! That's enough to convince us. With a covered placket on the zip for ultimate breeze protection, a stand-up collar to keep off the chill, as well as 'handwarmer' pockets, you're probably not going to come across a warmer coat. It comes to about hip length, so not going to do a lot for your legs if that's something you're worried about, but definitely a good one for the winter weather. It comes in a range of colours, too. We think "Basin Green" is our favourite.
Key Features:
70% recycled polyester 100% recycled down Fair Trade Certified™ Inside zip pocket
Arc'teryx Agrium Anorak Something a little different to the others on this list, the Arc'teryx Agrium Anorak has a half-zip down the centre, and definitely gives off jacket vibes over coat ones. However, this doesn't mean it comes with less performance features than the others. Still stuffed with that all-important down insulation that compacts well and offers warmth for a high amount of endurance activities. What's more is, the dye is added to the jacket in such a way that reduces CO2 emissions and saves water! Talking of water, this is not one to wear in the rain; dry and cold conditions only.
Key Features:
Fair Trade Certified™ Good all-round jacket Plant-conscious materials used Adjustable hood Kangaroo pocket
The Best Waterproof Jackets Rains 1507 Long Puffer Coat
Rains 1507 Long Puffer Coat If you're looking for a longer, knee-length coat, then this is it! Similar in style to the warm coats above, this Rains puffer jacket is guaranteed to be weatherproof. The Scandi brand know better than anyone: Danes get around 121 days of rain every year!
Key Features:
Drawstring hood Zip fastening Pockets aplenty Lightweight feel Columbia Puffect Mid Jacket
Columbia Puffect Mid Jacket This mid-length puffer jacket from outdoor-wear brand Columbia takes everything the brand know about adventure and activity from their American roots, and applies it to a jacket that looks equally good on a hike or on your daily commute. With hard-wearing materials that are also breathable, waterproof and insulating, there's a lot to like about this coat. It's nice to have a waterproof jacket that doesn't necessarily look waterproof. It would be even better with a removable hood, but a great feature all the same.
Key Features:
Two-way zipper Zip pockets Elasticated cuffs Insulated jacket Napapijri Skidoo High-Neck Shell Hooded Jacket
Napapijri Skidoo High-Neck Shell Hooded Jacket Now, this overhead jacket is a little louder than some of the other coats on this list, but it's definitely going to keep you dry in a storm. Coming with a kangaroo pocket at the front, your hands are guaranteed to stay toasty, whilst the drawstring hood and high neck will protect you from the wind. The relaxed fit means that you are easily able to layer underneath, whilst the zips over the pockets add security.
Key Features:
Storm flap Classic branding Hook-and-loop cuffs Drawstring hem
The Best Winter Coats For Women
Nike City Parka Jacket Coming in both this pleasing pink hue and a sensible black colour, Nike have reinvented the cold-weather staple by filling the padded coat with down insulation in the entirety of the quilting. Coming up extremely long, this coat provides full-body warmth thanks to the Swoosh brand's Therma-FIT technology, and looks good doing it. Nike's signature sporty look remains thanks to their branding and logos, but we know that this style could be dressed up if need be.
Key Features:
Ultra light Shell and lining made from smooth woven fabrics Relaxed fit Can be machine washed Pangaia Cropped Reversible Shell Jacket
Pangaia Cropped Reversible Shell Jacket If you're on the lookout for something sustainable, then Pangaia is the brand for you. This plain black jacket reminds wearers of the brand's 'project earth' efforts, whilst looking stylish at the same time. The lining is made from 100% polyamide, whilst the padding is a combination of polylactide and cellulosic fibre. The cropped look is so on-trend right now, and has been for a long time, so this black puffer is unlikely to go out of style after a year.
Key Features:
Lightweight Reversible! You get two coats in one Sustainable Zip pockets
Carhartt WIP Dani Jacket A versatile and fashionable shade of blue, this Carhartt WIP puffer will add colour to your wardrobe in the most subtle way possible. This quilted jacket comes with down fill and a super comfy, relaxed design. The concealed zip ensures that there's no breeze getting in and Carhartt branding finishes off the look. The flexible lapels mean that the coat is easy to style with hoodies for an on-trend outfit. You'll definitely feel like you never left your bed with this one!
Key Features:
Boxy fit Down filled Comfortable padding Concealed zip
TSW Picks: The Best Winter Jackets for Women Jordan Flight Puffer Jacket
Jordan Flight Puffer Jacket The Warmest Winter Jacket Everyone talks about the Jordan brand's sneakers, but the clothing is often overlooked. We can't get over this electric-blue puffer jacket, however. Coming with water-repellent technology and inspired by the MJ's warm-up kit, this is one super cool coat that's going to keep you warm all winter long. Lightweight in design with insulated lining, this duvet-like winter coat isn't letting any cold air in. As a plus, you can machine wash this in your own home, too!
Price: £165
Shoreditch Ski Club Laurel High-Neck Recycled Shell Puffer Jacket
Shoreditch Ski Club Laurel High-Neck Recycled Shell Puffer The Most Stylish Winter Jacket What's more stylish than being environmentally conscious? Coming made from recycled polyamide, this Shoreditch Ski Club jacket is earth-friendly and looks hella good whilst helping the planet. The mint-green colouring could easily be worn in winter as well as on a cool spring day, and the belt fastening around the neckline just adds that little extra spice that makes this jacket all the more cool. Coming with a high-neck line, you're bound to be nice a cosy, and the many, many pockets ensure that you won't even need to take a bag out with you. This coat speaks for itself.
Price: £590
ASOS DESIGN Diamond Check Oversized Coat
ASOS DESIGN Diamond Check Oversized Coat The Best All-Round Winter Coat Need something to rock in the office and on the weekends? Then this coat is for you. Slightly on the more formal side compared to other styles in this list, this long-line coat comes with a double-breasted design that adds a little chic to any outfit. With a slightly lower price tag than the other coats on offer, you'll find that this coat comes constructed from a wool-mix fabric, but is perfectly warm enough for the average winter day in London. This wool coat comes with a super large fit, so if you're not looking to layer then you'll definitely need to size down. Luckily ASOS do have an XXS option!
Price: £80
With so much on the market, it can be difficult to find the perfect winter coat for you. For many women, it takes years to find the ideal one to suit their style and needs, but we hope that this list adds clarity and gives you some inspiration for your next coat investment. Whilst the list lacks faux-fur coats (these are great for keeping you warm, FYI) or teddy coats, these are also great options and can be easily found on ASOS, Net-A-Porter, Zara, H&M and the like.
When it comes to down-filled coats, it's worth looking into the "fill power" - this is essentially how heavy a coat is - as everyone will have different needs depending on their location. If you're battling a New York winter but taking a holiday to Portugal for some summer sun, likelihood is you'll need two different coats. What a minefield! As well as this, if you'll be wearing the coat outdoors all day, everyday, then you'll need something especially hardwearing; ensure you stick to outdoors brands such as The North Face, rather than investing in a cute-but-only-suitable-for-shopping jacket from Selfridges.
We wish you all the best on your quest for the perfect coat: make sure to tag us in your LPUs over on Instagram, we love seeing how to style your statement pieces.
