Winter is here and it’s officially coat season (even in southern California). While our winter is shorter than most, I love coats and being able to bundle up this time of year. I know my style is typically very casual, but coats can really dress up your look and they’re always so comfortable. I may be slightly obsessed, but the right coat can transform your look. Below I’ve rounded up some of my favorites, as well as tips for buying so you can learn from my mistakes and invest in something that you’ll love for years to come.

tips for buying winter coats and jackets

Check for pockets. My favorite camel coat from Topshop doesn’t have pockets, but you wouldn’t be able to tell from looking at it. It was a harsh lesson, but I always remember it when I’m trying on coats. You may think that another layer you’re wearing on a winter day will have the pockets you need, but it’s most convenient when they’re on your outer layer… the coat.

Try them on with a thick and thin layer to see how the fit changes. I like to wear a sweater and t-shirt when I go shop for jackets; there are days when you’ll only need a light layer, and other times when you’ll bundle up, and I like to make sure my coats fit for both.

Remember you can always hem it if needed. I’m not very tall, and sometimes coats fit in the shoulders but the length makes them look too oversized. Hemming them will tailor them to your body, and is a very easy fix.

Even if you live in Southern California, you need a rain or cold-weather option. I never owned a rain jacket, and it was a rude awakening when I went to college and realized I would be walking to class in the rain.

winter coats and jackets everyone should own

classic camel coat

The classic closet staple for a reason; no wardrobe is complete without a classic camel coat. They’re effortless and go with just about everything, but I recommend focusing on both the tone and fit when you’re looking for yours. Mine is from Topshop and a warmer camel color, which fits my skin tone best, but you may look best in a cool or true neutral shade. I also prefer a more boxy trench option, but a belted version is universally flattering, too. Mine doesn’t close, which I can get away with because I live in Southern California, but you may want something a bit warmer based on where you live. No matter what, you can’t go wrong with a classic camel coat and everyone looks good in one.

black wool coat

Another staple, this coat goes with everything. I’ve worn mine with jeans and vans, but I love it as the topper for holiday party dresses with heels and booties. I would recommend investing in this coat over any other, as it will last you forever, match everything in your closet, and never go out of style.

plaid coat

I think everyone should invest in a coat in a pattern that they love and gravitate towards; for some it’s animal print, but for me, it’s plaid. I love the way the color scheme can transform how plaid looks. I have a dark grey plaid coat, but also two others that incorporate lots of pink. Coats are a great opportunity to play with prints and colors that are somewhat out of your comfort zone because you have the rest of your outfit to anchor you - whether that’s a white tee shirt and blue jeans, or an all-black outfit with boots. Plaid is a print that never goes out of style, and you will get much more use out of it than you think.

coatigan

Coatigans are new to me this year, but I love the concept and the comfort they provide. Petal & Pup has a great one that’s super warm and cozy, but looks a lot more dressed up than it feels, and is a little more elevated than a cardigan. There are times when I want my coat to be part of my outfit (rather than relying on coat check), and a coatigan is light enough to keep on throughout the day or evening.

blazer

Blazers may seem too thin for winter wear, but I love the look of layering one with a hoodie or thick turtleneck. You can then pair them with boots or sneakers, making it an easy outfit to dress up or down. I typically buy black for everything, but I like having neutral blazer options, and get more out of my grey and tan blazers than my black one.

puffer jacket

A puffer jacket is a great, practical option that adds a little bit of a casual or athletic vibe. I love a cropped version, and I typically pair mine with leggings, tall socks, and workout shoes - perfect for running errands on a chilly morning. If I lived on the east coast, I would definitely invest in a longer version. Fun colors make the puffer playful and modern, but you also can’t go wrong with a classic black, dark green, or navy.

hooded parka

The most important item I pack for snow trips, hooded parkas are a necessity in the winter. They’re typically water resistant, have both buttons and a zipper for extra protection from the elements, and typically have a hood. Most of them also cinch at the waist, which makes them really flattering. Nordstrom and Macy’s always have great options for all budgets.

The Best Coats for Winter