Winter coat quick picks
Women's parka: Orolay Women's Thickened Long Down Jacket
Women's puffer jacket: Quince Responsible Down Puffer Jacket
Men's parka: Puremsx Men’s Winter Parka Jacket
Men's quilted jacket: Uniqlo Pufftech Quilted Jacket
Of all the winter fashion pieces you might invest in — from scarves, gloves, hats and base layers — a winter coat is probably the one piece that’ll get the most use. Not only should the right outerwear be warm, versatile and have day-to-day wearability but it should complement your outfit, not just cover it up.
“Outerwear is an important part of someone’s winter wardrobe,” says Los Angeles-based stylist Alyssa Sutter, whose clients include Lucy Hale and brands like Velvet Canyon and Wolf Circus. “Regardless of where you live — yes, even in LA — investing in outerwear is a must. A jacket or coat can be the missing key to polishing off your winter look.”
And even though your coat should carry you from year to year, that doesn’t mean you have to buy the first black puffer you find. Just like any other fashion category, outerwear is subject to the trend cycle too, even if it’s a little slower than more of-the-moment items like shoes or bags. Celebrity stylist Micaela Erlanger says a statement coat is a major part of a winter wardrobe. After all, “Your coat doesn’t come off too frequently in the winter,” she says.
Even better, you don’t have to spend a ton to get the look. Ahead, stylist recommend some of the most adorable and affordable winter coats — we’re talking under-$150 affordable — that’ll last for seasons to come.
Winter coats for women under $150
A viral bestseller, this down coat has plenty of pockets for storage, a fleece-lined hood and side zippers for an adjustable fit. Clip the on-page coupon for $30 off the original price.
Stylist Catherine Bibeau recommends this straightforward quilted jacket that features Columbia's Omni-Heat lining that's made to reflect body-generated heat back onto the wearer. She calls it, "Simple, durable, [with a] practical fit and length." Specific sizes and colors are on sale for under $150, but we think the $160 price tag is fair too.
New York City-based fashion stylist Audree Kate López says peacoats are making a comeback this winter. "We are seeing oversized, 'borrowed from the boys,' ankle-grazing coats," she says. "They’re effortlessly cool, can layer over anything and are way more chic than your go-to black puffer coat."
Erlanger, who partnered with T.J.Maxx for its first Styled by Runway incubator program for up-and-coming stylists, highlights that the retailer is a great destination for shopping for outerwear. With deep discounts on designer and name brand pieces, you can score a killer coat like this without spending a ton.
Grab this sleek overcoat that López loves while it's on sale. It's a sophisticated style that can instantly elevate your look — without breaking the bank.
Chicago-based stylist Katie Schuppler agrees that a peacoat is a classic choice that's always chic. She likes this affordable option that has an attached hood.
López calls out this fall's and winter's focus on utilitarian styles like work coats and barn jackets. This field jacket gives a polished take on the trend with a coated cotton finish.
"I love a teddy coat," Erlanger says. "We're seeing those everywhere." They're a great way to add texture to your winter wardrobe and instantly give off a cozy vibe.
A great deal on what López says is this season's "it" item, this barn jacket is now 50% off. The rustic style features a classic plaid print, contrast lining and corduroy collar.
"Who doesn’t love one less thing to think about when heading out their door?" Schuppler says, referring to this 2-in-1 scarf jacket. It's a chic option that doesn't sacrifice warmth for style.
"In addition to peacoats, we have seen the return of the bomber jacket," López says. "You can find a leather, lightweight wool or puffer version depending on your personal style." This faux leather option has a distressed, worn-in look for a vintage feel.
Underscored updates writer Ellen McAlpine is also a fan of the teddy coat trend and loves this affordable coat from Amazon. She says it looks and feels much more expensive than it is, and she appreciates the roomy fit that's ideal for layering.
Cropped trench coats are another style you'll be seeing a lot of. López calls this abbreviated trend the little sister of the trench coat. "It’s a great alternative if you’re petite, don’t like a full-length trench or want something more casual," she says.
Bibeau says this puffer jacket has a "sporty look with a light weight that I really enjoy." It's filled with responsibly sourced goose down and comes in 13 colors.
"Keep tabs on coats that have a built-in scarf in the neckline," López says. She loves the trend for the same reason as Schuppler: You'll never forget your scarf, and it's "perfect for those bitter-cold days." Don't forget to clip the on-page coupon for 10% off the list price.
Shopping The North Face's refurbished marketplace is a great way to save money on quality outerwear. Bibeau likes this parka, which is available in a variety of colors for over 50% off the original retail value.
If you’re looking for something specifically designed to stand up to snow, skiing or any other winter activity, this TSLA jacket is multilayered, waterproof and comes in a bunch of colors for whatever best matches the rest of your snow ensemble.
"Cropped jackets are making a comeback, particularly in casual styles that can be layered," Bibeau says. López agrees, noting that she loves a short trench coat for this reason. This one from Land's End comes in khaki or navy for a classic look.
Another scarf coat recommendation from López, this long version is equal parts practical and stylish.
Winter coats for men under $150
López calls out Carhartt as one of the brands that's become ultra popular for its utilitarian styles. Rated for extreme weather, this Carhartt jacket is wind resistant, water-repellent, padded with synthetic down insulation and has a sherpa fleece lining to seal in heat. Pair those features with plenty of pockets for convenient storage and this jacket becomes the perfect winter piece for any man’s wardrobe.
"The winter season can be treacherous depending on where you live, so picking a coat with moisture [repellent] qualities is always a smart choice," Schuppler says. "Choosing a coat with down or faux down stuffing will also keep you nice and cozy on those freezing days!" Available in regular and tall sizes, this Eddie Bauer style is the brand's first patented down jacket. The heritage piece remains a classic, upgraded with 650-fill premium down insulation for maximum warmth.
A minimalist take on the barn jacket look, this quilted option from Uniqlo uses high-performance fibers to insulate without adding extra bulk.
This Kenneth Cole coat is as functional as it is fashionable. With a mock-neck sweater and quilted lining, it’s designed to block out chills and keep every man looking chic.
Feel confident braving freezing temperatures in this Puremsx jacket, made to withstand hard winter conditions. Windproof, waterproof and insulated, it’s ready to keep you warm from dawn till dusk. It also comes in six colors.
For a truly sophisticated look, shop this knee-length London Fog jacket made with a wool blend and a polyester satin lining.
How to choose the best winter coat
The type of winter coat you choose depends on factors like the climate where you live, your preferred materials and, of course, your personal style. The stylists we spoke to advise keeping the following in mind when picking a new winter coat.
- Insulation type and level: “This will determine the level of warmth,” López says. “Down fluffy feathers) will make for a lighter weight insulation and wool/fleece for a higher warmth-to-weight ratio.”
- Outer fabric: “Look for coats with water-resistant or waterproof materials, especially if you expect snow or rain,” Bibeau says. Windproofing is another factor to consider. “A coat with windproof features will help retain body heat and keep you comfortable in harsh winds,” she adds. You may want to consider breathability and how easy the material is to clean too.
- Length: “Longer coats offer more coverage and warmth,” Bibeau says. A shorter jacket can be better for active lifestyles. Consider whether you prefer a hip-length, knee-length or longer option.
- Fit: Bibeau and López both point out that you should think about what you’re going to wear under your coat. “Do you like to layer chunky/heavy knit sweaters? If so, you might want to make sure your jacket has extra room in the shoulders/arms or size up to accommodate,” López says.
- Features: “Do you want a hood or removable hood? Do you prefer zippers, snaps or buttons? Pockets? Fleece or removable lining?” All these features that López brings up can make a big difference when choosing what coat to put on. “Think about how your coat can be versatile, functional and warm during winter,” López says.