"In a perfect world, a winter coat is two things: protective and stylish. It has to keep you warm and shielded from the elements (looking at you, January sleet), but ideally will also be something you actually want to put on. Lucky for us, 2023’s top coat trends check both boxes—so much so that we actually don’t mind that it’s coat season.
This year’s winter coat trends have heavy influence from old-school styles, but with modern twists that leave a timeless result. Detachable scarves, sustainable materials, and on-trend colors are just a few characteristics of what are about to be the hottest coats of 2023. And don’t worry—from wool to faux fur, the cozy options are abundant.
If you’re in the market for a new winter coat, these six styles are the ones to watch this year. Give that old black parka a break, she deserves some rest.
1. Sherpa Coats
Is it the year 2000 or 2023? A sherpa coat is a timeless addition to your wardrobe that you’ll be able to turn to for years to come. With sherpa details lining your jacket’s inside, collar, and cuffs, there’s hardly a cold day that the sherpa jacket can’t handle. We’d be remiss to not also mention how versatile they are. Dress up your errand-day outfit with a sherpa coat or pair it with a dress and tights for more formal wear during the holiday season.
2. Updated Wool Coats
A wool coat is the definition of timeless, but this year we’re seeing them shape shift a bit, taking on forms like long trenches, cropped peacoats, and collared dusters with detachable scarves. Whether your winters are mild or tundra-level, there’s a wool coat that’ll work for you, and complete every single one of your winter outfits.
3. Oversized Leather Jackets
This year, we’re swapping out our fitted leather jackets for more oversized ones. Honestly, the more oversized the better. When layered over a sweater or sweatshirt, a leather jacket will provide enough insulation for more mild winter days, and will give your outfits an edge you didn’t know you needed.
4. Quilted Puffers
A puffer jacket is always going to deliver in the winter, but a quilted puffer jacket adds extra oomph to your outfit that you need on dreary winter days. The exaggerated puffiness of the jacket gives a “I’m staying warm, but in a chic way” look to winter wear, especially when combined with a pair of UGGs or snow boots. It’s the antithesis to the middle school canon event of thinking you’re too cool to wear a coat—the bigger the puffer, the better.
5. Trench Coats
Birthday cakes, haircuts, trench coats—some of our favorite things are even better when layered. Trench coats are totally wearable in the chillier months when layered with scarves, beanies, sweaters, and the like. You can also opt for one in a more weather-proof material, like leather or wool, to capture the Parisian chicness a trench coat gives all winter long.
6. Statement coats
Why wear a plain black parka every day when you can wear a pink one? Or a metallic one? Or one that’s embellished with rhinestones? A statement coat can lift your spirits on the dreariest of days, which is much needed once January and February roll around. Lean into playfulness and opt for a coat that’ll turn heads and spark joy every time you put it on.
