32 best winter coats for women 2024: Stylish and cosy designs selected by a fashion editor

Our fashion editor's pick of the best winter coats for women that will keep you cosy and chic all season

composite of three models wearing the best winter coats for women from Reiss, Brora, Hobbs
(Image credit: Reiss, Brora, Hobbs)

Bagging yourself one of the best winter coats is a real investment, both in terms of style and money. Pick well, and you'll be both snug and stylish not just for the season ahead but for many winters to come. 

As temperatures plummet, the best winter coats are there to help you beat the chill in style. A key player in our winter capsule wardrobe and the first impression on any outfit, aside from considering the aesthetic you’ll need to think about fabrication, functionality and occasion to ensure your winter coat meets your needs. Establish when you will be wearing your coat e.g. the school run, dog walking or heading to the office and this will begin to help you create a specification of what your winter outerwear must achieve. 

Naturally warm fabrics such as wool or cashmere are ideal for a high end, but cosy coat with added polish, while for those looking for something more outdoorsy or sporty, should look to specially crafted synthetics, that max out on water and wind repellent features - these can be found at specialist outdoor retailers. There are also many different types of coats to consider, more tailored designs such as the best trench coats are ideal for smarter occasions - such as the office, where as padded, quilted or parka coats offer a more casual spin without compromising on weather-tackling abilities. 

Best winter coats for women as selected by a fashion editor

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"For me, function and style is key," says Paula Moore, fashion director at woman & home. "I want to look good and keep warm. My go to is a tailored coat - as it looks great with dress and boots and equally over hoodie and jeans. I tend to buy my coat a little bit bigger so I can wear it over layers and in classic camel, so I can wear it most days for years to come. Maintenance is also important - make sure to dry clean it every season."

Paula Moore
Paula Moore

Currently Group Fashion Director at Future Publishing, Paula Moore has been in the fashion industry for over 30 years. Overseeing the fashion pages for Woman and Home, Simply Woman and Home, Woman, Woman’s Own, Woman’s Weekly and Chat magazines. 

Best wool coat

Hobbs Tilda Wool Coat

(Image credit: Hobbs)

Hobbs Tilda Wool Coat

Specifications

RRP: £299
Sizes: UK: 6-20
Fabric: 100% wool
Colourways: Camel, purple, blue

Reasons to buy

+
Comes in petite and regular sizes
+
100% wool - very cosy

Reasons to avoid

-
No extended sizes beyond a 20

There aren’t many pieces that can make even the most laid-back outfits (think a slogan sweatshirt, the best leggings, and a chunky trainer) feel instantly more polished - but this is where a wool coat excels. A timeless classic with boundless styling potential, it’ll take you seamlessly from work to weekend wear. Straight-cut, single-breasted styles that are in midi or maxi cuts exude effortless elegance. As a general rule, the best wool coats will have a high wool percentage - think 70% or above. This means they will be both warm and breathable.

This iteration from Hobbs has that everlasting appeal that’ll serve you well for years to come. In a classic camel hue, it comes in a flattering midi length that will work with any outfit. Crafted from 100% wool it’s guaranteed to keep you cosy and comfortable. Wear open for a more relaxed look, or add structure with the buttons done up. An investment piece you won’t regret.

View the latest Hobbs discount codes from woman&home's voucher team to get money off your next purchase.

Best of the rest...

Best puffer coat

Superdry Hooded Maxi Puffer Coat

(Image credit: Superdry)

Superdry Hooded Maxi Puffer Coat

Specifications

RRP: £164.99
Sizes: UK 8-16
Fabric: 100% polyester outer
Colourways: Black, brown, navy, khaki, latte

Reasons to buy

+
Range of colour options
+
Longline
+
Ribbed cuffs for added warmth

Reasons to avoid

-
Small size range

For those days when leaving the warmth of your bed feels almost impossible, snuggling into a puffer coat makes for a fair compromise. A style that was once reserved for casualwear or extreme weather conditions, the best puffer jackets have undergone quite the sartorial reinvention in recent years. Making an appearance on several catwalks this season including Hermes, Miu Miu and Chloe, designers gave it a smarter update with belted designs and sleek neutral hues. One of the warmest winter coats to invest in, once you’ve snuggled into a puffer coat, you’ll never look back.

This maxi design from cold-weather pros Superdry will keep you warm from head to toe, and can even work for what to wear skiing to keep cosy off the slopes. With subtle branding for a more minimal look, the warm brown hue keeps it feeling polished. It features a bungee cord hood and popper fastening hem making it easy to get on and off. There’s some serious sustainable credentials too - each jacket contains between 5 and 48 recycled bottles.

Best of the rest...

Best parka coat

The North Face Suzanne Triclimate Parka

(Image credit: The North Face)

The North Face Suzanne Triclimate Parka

Specifications

RRP: £380
Sizes: XS-XXL
Fabric: 100% recycled polyester outer, 100% polyester inner
Colourways: Green or black

Reasons to buy

+
Waterproof
+
Windproof
+
Breathable
+
Made from recycled fabrics

Reasons to avoid

-
Small size range
-
Not the most fashionable design

A type of coat most associated with practicality, the humble parka is a hardworking wardrobe essential and one of the best winter coats to invest in. A quality parka will earn its keep in your wardrobe in a number of different ways, from providing a protective outer layer to bringing a utility feel to smart casual outfit ideas. Wear yours with distressed denim or over a dress and boots to lean into its cool, indie connotations. A constant when it comes to what to wear to a festival, if the parka is good enough for Kate Moss, then it's good enough for us.

Wondering about trench coats vs parka coats, the parka has a far sportier feel, where as a trench coat definitely crosses the border into office-ready style, in a way that the parka may struggle in more formal settings. 

The North Face’s Suzanne Parka, is one of the best North Face jackets and ticks all the boxes with its cool utility-inspired khaki hue and weather-proof technology. A best waterproof jackets for women that is also windproof and down insulated, it’ll protect you from all the elements. It’s super adaptable too with a two-in-one design so you can wear the inner jacket on cold, dry days or the outer jacket on wet and warm days. In the depths of winter, you can wear them both at once.

Best of the rest...

Best camel coat

Max Mara Double-Breasted Wool Coat

(Image credit: Max Mara)

Max Mara Double-Breasted Wool Coat

Specifications

RRP: £890
Sizes: UK: 2-18
Fabric: 100% wool
Colourways: Camel, medium grey

Reasons to buy

+
Crafted from 100% wool
+
One of the best and most famous camel coat brands
+
Italian craftsmanship

Reasons to avoid

-
Only up to an 18
-
One of the most expensive coats on the list

No piece is quite as classic as the camel coat. Long been considered a neutral like white, black, and grey, camel is versatile enough to wear with all hues on the colour wheel, making it one of the best winter coats, if you want something that will go with pretty much everything. Whether you want to splash out on a high end designer number or keep it budget-friendly, a camel coat always looks expensive and we guarantee every stylist, editor and celebrity has one in their wardrobe. Perfect for leaning into that Quiet Luxury trend, expect to see camel coats in an array of silhouettes from tailored, double-breasted designs to modern shearling finishes.

Italian clothing brand Max Mara’s iconic camel coats are some of the most coveted. This gorgeous double-breasted design is crafted from 100% wool for guaranteed snugness. It features a coordinating belt to pull you in at the waist, creating a stunning hourglass silhouette. Expertly made, this smart, tailored coat will be loved for years to come. Throw over any outfit for the instant wow factor.

Best of the rest...

Best rain coat

Stutterheim Long Raincoat

(Image credit: Stutterheim)

Stutterheim Long Raincoat

Specifications

RRP: £280
Sizes: xxxs-xxl
Fabric: 100% PVC rubberized coating, 52% cotton, 48% polyester
Colourways: Green, grey, gold, pink, black, navy

Reasons to buy

+
Cotton blend for breathability
+
Fully waterproof
+
International shipping available

Reasons to avoid

-
Only goes up to a UK 16

A forecast of rain might dampen your day, but with the right rainy day outfits you'll be splashing in puddles in no time. Banish any thoughts of dated pack-a-macs or anoraks from your mind, the next generation of waterproof jackets and coats are powered by high-tech fabrics and have very much taken appearance into account. They’re not just for festivals either and have been dripping their way into our everyday wardrobes thanks to their sleeker-than-sleek designs. Practicality that doesn’t skimp on style either, these next-gen raincoats are ones you’ll actually want to wear. Even when it’s not raining.

Made from a durable waterproof fabric with a matte textured finish, this achingly cool coat from Stutterheim will add a splash of sunshine to your look. The minimalist silhouette ensures it’ll stand the test of time and it features double-welded seams for reliable protection from the rain. It has a drawstring hood and under arm eyelets for comfort and easy movement.

Best of the rest...

Best faux fur coat

Hobbs Gabby Fur Coat

(Image credit: Hobbs)

Hobbs Gabby Fur Coat

Specifications

RRP: £219
Sizes: XS-L
Fabric: 100% polyester
Colourways: Dark charcoal

Reasons to buy

+
Dressier design
+
Cosy collar
+
Versatile hue

Reasons to avoid

-
Small size range
-
Polyester fabric - less breathable

Faux fur is synonymous with luxury so if you want to indulge in some sartorial extravagance, a faux fur coat is the way to go. No longer just about classic hues of browns and beiges, for the autumn/winter fashion trends designers such as Bally and Stella McCartney sent models down the runway in bold animal prints and vibrant hues for a more statement-making look. One of the easiest winter coats to style, a faux fur coat is a head-turning outfit in itself so it really doesn’t matter what you wear underneath. 

A combination of cosiness and glamour, this charcoal design from Hobbs is top of our wish list this season. If you’re worried about the extra bulk of a faux fux coat, the oversized collar adds an extra dose of drama and a bit more structure to the look. Wear over the best cocktail dresses to really make your entrance at every party. 

Best of the rest...

Best trench coat

Mango Classic Trench Coat with Belt

(Image credit: Mango)

Mango Classic Trench Coat with Belt

Specifications

RRP: £89.99
Sizes: XXS-4XL
Fabric: 100% cotton outer
Colourways: Beige, black, camel

Reasons to buy

+
Cotton outer for breathability
+
Plus sizes available
+
Timeless design

Reasons to avoid

-
Not the warmest style

Few coats have such all-year-round appeal as the trench. Wear yours as a lightweight layer as part of your spring capsule wardrobe, before transferring it to your autumn wardrobe later in the year. The traditional trench is straight-cut, a mid-calf length, and features both a collar and a belt, but this sartorial blueprint continues to be tweaked and reimagined season after season. Alongside classic shades of biscuity beige are prints, patterns, and bold hues. This season, while the classic structured cotton fabric remains the key option, for a more fashion-forward feel, swap it out for a more modern denim, or real leather iteration. 

If the budget doesn’t quite stretch to a Burberry trench coat, this Mango design is the next best thing. Featuring defining characteristics of the traditional trench from the double-breasted silhouette to the adjustable belt, it’s made from a water-repellent fabric so will protect you during a short shower too.

Best of the rest…

Best shearling coat

Joseph Textured Shearling Cail Coat

(Image credit: Joseph)

Joseph Textured Shearling Cail Coat

Specifications

RRP: £2,495
Sizes: UK: 6-16
Fabric: 100% shearling leather
Colourways: n/a

Reasons to buy

+
Soft and luxurious
+
Extremely warm

Reasons to avoid

-
Highest price point in the piece
-
Small size range

Blending textures is a failsafe way to add luxe to your look - the more tactile the better. Shaggy and soft, shearling is satisfyingly cosy, and a premium way to stay warm when temperatures drop. It’s important to note that shearling is an animal product akin to fur, and faux options are widely available if required. The most popular style of shearling coat is undoubtedly the aviator, recognisable by its oversized shape, broad lapels, and crossbody fastening (usually a zip). The style was originally worn by pilots, before becoming a popular fashion piece. But other shearling designs are available and deliver a chic Rich Mum feel to any outfit.

Go all-out with Joseph’s textured Cali coat. Single-breasted with hidden buttons, it has a waist-defining belt and smooth leather on the inside. It has an oversized fit so you may want to size down to avoid feeling too overwhelmed by the fabric. A true investment piece that’s bound to bring in the compliments. 

Best of the rest…


What is the best winter coat for warmth?

Winter coats can normally be divided into two categories: the ones that prioritise style, and the ones that prioritise warmth. But that doesn’t mean there’s not a crossover in the middle. In fact, this central section of this sartorial ven diagram is much bigger than you might think.

The first consideration when understanding how to pick a warm winter coat is fabric. Wool is a brilliant insulator, and as the fibers have gaps between them, is also nice and breathable. Keep in mind that “wool mix” doesn’t always mean substantial wool content, so check the label. Ideally, you’re looking for at least 80% to keep you toasty. Cashmere is also great at keeping the chill at bay, but this luxe fabric does come at a premium. 

Now, when most of us think of a warm winter coat, it’s normally a puffer that springs to mind. Created from down, feathers, or a vegan-friendly synthetic alternative, tiny pockets of warm air are trapped between the gaps in the padding, which works to retain heat.

Fabric and filling aside, it’s the little details that make the biggest difference. It doesn’t take an expert to understand that the longer coat, and the longer the sleeves, the warmer it will be. Taped seams that won’t let in a whisper of breeze or rain are great, as are cuffed cuffs. If you’re really facing the elements, consider investing in a coat with a hood, additional lining, and waterproof outer.

What is the best winter coat for dog walking?

The best winter coat for dog walking needs to protect you from all the elements, as there is no option but to get outside and take your pup for their exercise - whatever the weather. 

The best winter coats for dog walking will need to not just keep you warm but actively help to regulate your body temperature as you are likely to naturally get warmer on your walk, or through playing with your furry friend during an exercise session. This means that your first port of call should be high performance outerwear pieces crafted specifically for activity. Patagonia and brands like Patagonia, such as Columbia, Fjallraven, Helly Hansen, Jack Wolfskin and The North Face are a particularly strong choice as they all use specialist technology to create outerwear that can withstand wind, rain and shine. When reading through product specifications look for wind resistant ratings, breathability and water repellent abilities. 

The length of the best winter coat for dog walking is a personal choice. A longer line design will offer extra coverage and keep bottoms and thighs warmer in the depths of winter, however if your dog walk is fairly active and involves more than a stroll round the block, you may find a shorter activewear jacket gives you a better range of movement. 

Which brands have the best winter coats?

When looking for the best winter coats, it's wise to think not just of aesthetics but fabrication and functionality too. While lots of fashion-forward brands will produce gorgeous winter coats that are on trend and will keep you cosy, for maximum winter protection, you want to look to specialist brands, that have a wealth of knowledge in high-spec fabrics. This includes brands like The North Face, as its coats are designed for performance not just looks. This means they will have special coatings to protect you from the weather. 

If you're looking for more of a trend-led style, opt for brands that use down, or imitation down (for a vegan version). Brands such as Uniqlo and Canada Goose are excellent for this style. 

Should your winter coat be a size bigger?

"Winter coats are cut specifically with the idea that you'll be wearing other items of clothing underneath them", says fashion editor, Rivkie Baum. "Meaning they should already be a little roomier than a t-shirt in the same size. To that end, you do not need to size up when buying a winter coat. If buying a tailored design, you may find it a little too fitted to wear bulky sweaters underneath. If you are tempted to size up, make sure to look at the shoulders of the coat as a size guide when trying on. The shoulder seams should still sit on your shoulders, when it comes to getting a smart but well fitting coat."

What to look for when buying a winter coat

When looking for the best winter coats there are several things to consider. 

1. Fabric - This is possibly the most important as it is the deciding factor as to how warm your coat will be. Natural fabrics, such as wool, will be naturally warm but also breathable, so you won't find yourself hot and sweaty. There are a number of technical fabrics now available on the market and these are an excellent choice for high-performance, cold weather coats. Look for treated fabrics that will help keep you dry, protect against wind and keep you warm. Tactile fabrics such as faux fur and shearling will also contribute to a feeling of protection and cosiness.

2. Design - Of course, you want your coat to look good too, and paying attention to the latest coat trends will help you nail this season's looks. If you want more of an investment style that you can wear for several seasons, opt for a more classic design in a neutral colourway that won't go out of fashion.

3. Care instructions - While this shouldn't be a final deciding factor, it is wise to make yourself aware of the care label instructions before purchase. Coats that require dry cleaning are obviously harder to care for and may be better suited to special occasion, or workwear styles. Machine washable coats might be more desirable for everyday, sporty or coats worn to the park or on a dog walk so you can keep them refreshed more easily. 

4. What's it for - There will be a number of different winter coats you may want in your winter wardrobe. This will include something smart and perhaps more tailored for the office, or evening wear, something a little sportier like a parka for weekends, and something a little more glamourous - like a faux fur coat, as we head into the festive season. 

Rivkie Baum
Rivkie Baum

With over fifteen years' experience, Rivkie is an accomplished fashion editor, writer and stylist. Covering international fashion weeks, and styling photoshoots all over the world, Rivkie loves translating the trends in an accessible way to make fashion available for all budgets. 

The best winter coats come in all sizes and silhouettes, ensuring there is plenty of choice for personal taste. When looking for a winter coat specifically, while style and the latest coat trends will help you express yourself, don't forget to really engage with the product specification - if you're shopping online this should be clearly detailed on the product page. Make sure your coat will live up to your expectations and needs before purchasing. 

Charlie Bell

Charlie is the Deputy Fashion Editor at Future plc across multiple women’s magazines including Woman & Home, Woman and Woman's Own.

She bagged her first magazine job in 2009 and has previously written for titles including Stylist, Closer and Dare. Over the years Charlie has embraced anything that was thrown at her from styling celebrities to testing out the best jeans on the high street to writing about must-have beauty buys.

With a weakness for a printed midi dress, Charlie is on a mission to shop more sustainably and loves finding new ethical brands and second-hand buys.

With contributions from