Winter Coat Guide

Around this time every year I get flooded with messages that read similar to this: “I’m visiting New York soon! What winter coats do you recommend?” Those of us who were born and raised and continue to call the northeast home are all too familiar with heavy jackets. When you rely on your feet to get from place to place having durable outerwear is a necessity. My outerwear collection has grown significantly over the last seven years that I’ve lived in New York (& now Jersey!) because I spend so much time using public transportation. When it comes to coats, I love having options to match with whatever I’m wearing, but still know that my top layer is going to do it’s job and keep me warm.

OUTFIT DETAILS // Maroon Puffer Coat | Turtleneck Sweater | Leggings | Duck Boots | Aviators | Black Leather Bag

In my opinion there are three main categories of winter coats.

First are the insulated puffers that can resist the elements. These are the jackets you wear on frigid cold days and when the weather is messy. The primary function of this coat is warmth– not style or looking fashionable. During the winter months I get the most use out of my down parka— it’s what I wear to run errands or really anywhere that doesn’t require me to dress up. Usually when it’s freezing cold out the last thing on my mind is looking cute. I’d much rather be warm and comfortable!

INSULATED + PUFFER COATS (WEATHER-RESISTANT)

OUTFIT DETAILS // Red Wool Coat | Cable Knit Beanie | Over the Knee Boots | Similar Scarf

The second are tailored wool-blend coats. These coats can still offer a significant degree of warmth without making you look like the Michelin-man. Popular styles include double breasted, wrap, trench and peacoats.

If I’m heading to an event, out on a date with my husband or anywhere that requires a business casual look, I usually open for a long wool blend coat. I personally love ones with a big collar and belt!

WOOL-BLEND TAILORED COATS

OUTFIT DETAILS // Pink Teddy Coat | White Turtleneck Sweater | Leggings | Pink Hat | Pink Flats | Tan Handbag | Aviator Sunglasses

The third are faux fur-style coats. Teddy coats, sherpa jackets— really any jacket that makes you feel like a fluffy bear or sheep. These coats are typically very warm, stylish and come in a variety of price points. As long as it’s not arctic cold outside, I always will reach for one of my faux fur coats. These styles are the perfect combination of warm and cozy, but still have an element of style and sophistication. You can also find them in all price points!

FAUX FUR, SHERPA & TEDDY COATS

^^ this puffer coat is under $100 and also comes in black!

Looking for some affordable winter coat options? Here are a few you can shop now.

BUDGET-FRIENDLY

OUTFIT DETAILS // Canada Goose Coat | Red Sweater Dress | Over the Knee Boots | Black Sunglasses | Saint Laurent Bag

Every year my Canada Goose down parka is my most-worn winter coat. It’s the kind of jacket that you buy and know that you’re going to wear it every year for the rest of your life. It was expensive but the quality is un-matched. It’s kept me warm in sub-zero temperatures and the messiest blizzard– you can see me wearing it over the years in Quebec City and Amsterdam below!

INVESTMENT COATS

^^ Canada Goose makes the best coats for extreme weather conditions!