Though it may seem a bit counterintuitive to buy a fall coat in the middle of the season (typically, you'd want to have your outerwear selection squared away before the temperatures begin to drop), it's really not too late to pick up an extra jacket or two (and if you haven't purchased any, it's totally fine to start your collection, too).
This season in particular, with puffer coats and thrift-inspired toppers making quite the comeback, the possibilities are endless, the styles are innovative, and the options are unrivaled. You have pieces you can wear solo, pieces you can layer, and pieces you can rock all year long — and that's what makes the selection ahead so intriguing. Here's a breakdown of what you might need (or want) this fall and winter — there's really nothing not to love when cozy and cool coincide.
The Longline Blazer
Whether in satin, velvet, cotton, or wool, this is a topper you'll want for fall. Pair with matching pants for a crisp suited look, or pop on top of anything else in your closet; it's one of those rare pieces that'll keep you warm, without looking sloppy.
Reformation Royale Jacket, $248, available at Reformation.
The "Hand Me Down" (Sort Of)
Oversized, boxy coats that look like they were bought for $5 from your local thrift store are doing their thing this fall. Not only are they key to surviving cold weather, but they can somehow make any look feel laid-back and polished...at the same time.
Zara Bouclé Coat, $99.99, available at Zara.
The Patent Trench
A trench coat is a staple, but in patent leather, it's an on-trend must-have. How many of your rainy-day essentials can you say look this good?
Trademark Patent Trench, $728, available at Lisa Says Gah.
The Oversized Sweatshirt
Okay, fine. This isn't a jacket or a coat. But with comfort and cool becoming one and the same, this season we're utilizing sporty, oversized hoodies as our outer layer of warmth. Wear with sneakers or kitten heels — thanks to athleisure, you can seriously do either.
H&M Oversized Hooded Sweatshirt, $49.99, available at H&M.
The A-Line Vest
A vest is a transitional-weather savior; it's essential on days when you want to stay warm but also want to show off the look you've spent so much time putting together. This season, try a longer A-line silhouette in a thick, luxe fabric and muted hue to polish off any look.
Samuji Sameh Vest in Green Gray, $510, available at Oroboro.
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The Leather Pilot Jacket
Up the ante on your leather-jacket game with this quilted army green style.
PAIGE, $975.00, available at PAIGE
The Textured Puffer
Though they may conjure memories of playing in the snow as a toddler, puffer jackets are the "It" coat of the season (thank you, Demna Gvasalia). The good news: Since this look has become so ubiquitous, it's available at basically any budget. And though a plain, solid-color version is great, if your bank account allows, we suggest gravitating toward one with some texture. We swear you'll stand out in the crowd.
Sandy Liang Drizzy Puffer, $1,370, available at Sandy Liang.
The Liner
Liner jackets are on the come up as the sporty piece to pair with your non -sporty clothes. Wear now solo, and when it gets chillier, pop one on underneath a wool coat for an added dose of warmth.
BDG Emma Quilted Liner Jacket, $79, available at Urban Outfitters.
The Denim Robe Coat
The reason denim jackets are ubiquitous in changing-weather months (think April and October) is because they're just the right weight (and color, TBH). Since you've likely been wearing the same version since forever, though, it's time to switch things up: Try a heavier option that looks and feels more like a coat. That way, as temperatures begin to drop, you'll still be able to pull off your modern-day Canadian tuxedo.
Ashley Rowe Robe Coat in Medium Denim, $295, available at Need Supply.
The Satin Duster
It's hard to feel anything but luxe when you have a long satin coat floating in your wake. Let this robe-like piece hang loose over some wide-leg trousers and a tee. It may not be the warmest piece out there, but it's certainly a slice of layering magic.
Topshop 80s Satin Duster Coat, $160, available at Topshop.
The Outerwear Cardigan
Cardigans are back, and they're not just for wearing with a matching knit tank. On days that aren't too brisk, trade in your go-to topper for a longline option that feels more like a part of your outfit, rather than an afterthought.
Opening Ceremony Animal Jacquard Coat, $525, available at Opening Ceremony.
The Athluxury Parka
It's time to say hello to athluxury. The next-gen, more high-end version of athleisure, this newfound concept combines sportswear designs with lavish fabrics. (Like this parka, for example, which is made of satin and looks like it belongs on Rihanna.)
ASOS Parka in Bonded Satin and Borg, $138, available at ASOS.
The Shacket
Is it a shirt? Is it a jacket? Who cares. Get you one that can do both.
Veda Leroy Leather Jacket, $495, available at Veda.
The Patent Leather Jacket
Leather jackets are cool. Leather jackets are ideal for autumn. The only problem? Leather jackets tend to all look the same. If you're looking to stand out in the crowd, try a version that has a different texture or cut. Our number one this season? Patent, duh.
Ganni Scott Leather Jacket, $880, available at Selfridges.
The 3/4 Sleeve Coat
The trick to this piece is the styling. Let your hoodies and sweaters shine with a coat that shows off your sleeves and allows you to play with different proportions.
Mango Belt Wool Coat, $229.99, available at Mango.
The Layerable Puffer
We already mentioned statement puffers, but another way to do the puffy coat this season is in a layerable iteration. Wear it underneath another coat or by itself. Consider it two for one.
Gap ColdControl Lite Stripe Puffer Jacket, $138, available at Gap.
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