BrighIn an odd twist of fate, puffers are having more than "a moment" right now. Once the unofficial uniform of the après ski set, or Miranda Hobbes strolling around Manhattan, the down jacket is now this season’s most wearable wardrobe update.
Thanks to Demna Gvasalia, the mastermind behind Balenciaga and Vetements, the oversized, dead-of-winter topper somehow feels chic — especially worn hanging off-the-shoulder with sharply tailored trousers and a bold turtleneck. Luckily for our purses, though, it wasn’t just the aforementioned luxury labels that prioritized the style; contemporary brands like Marques’Almeida and Isa Arfen each showed their own respective styles (some were big enough to double as a sleeping bag; others were beautifully fluid, rendered in deep magenta-and-charcoal velvet). The style has, of course, trickled down into fast fashion as well, with retailers like Zara, Topshop, and more adopting the trend (and producing more affordable versions).
As much as we hate to even think about winter coming, it is a univerally acknowledged truth that those who do not buy their coats in August shall live in eternal regret. Kidding. (Kind of). Either way, the 12 options ahead are ones worth investing in now, way before the cold weather actually hits.
If you’re feeling on the fence about this trend, may we suggest this extraordinary, half-sharply tailored wool jacket, half-quilted fuchsia Jacquemus number. It's equally at home in the office and at the bar.
Jacquemus Coat with Contrasting Quilted Side, $710, available at Browns.
For days when the weather sucks, let this durable option be your savior. (Who doesn't love Uniqlo coats?)
Uniqlo Women Ultra Light Down Stretch Hooded Coat, $99.90, available at Uniqlo.
Bright red and outdoorsy, this hip-length jacket comes complete with a neat elastic panel on the back, meaning you won't have to go crazy over fit. Plus, its detachable hood makes for the perfect cover up come rain or shine.
Light Before Dark Cropped Quilted Jacket, $99.62, available at Urban Outfitters.
Similar to a modern-day opera coat, this Stella McCartney option is a thing of rare beauty. Inky blue and crafted from the plushest velvet, this is, without a doubt, the most glamorous (and plush) puffer on the block.
Stella McCartney Ink Marcelline Coat, $2,590, available at Stella McCartney.
A silky, longline style from classic sportswear brand Fila. Wear yours oversized with denim and feel like a member of TLC.
Fila Longline Padded Coat in Silky Fabric, $128.98, available at ASOS.
Snowy white and boxy: What more could you want? Pair yours with slick ski pant and clear liquids.
Zara Short Anorak, $99.90, available at Zara.
If you're not totally sold on the oversized puffer, let a simpler, collarless pink option ease you into the style.
Topshop Petite Satin Puffer Jacket, $210, available at Topshop.
An eclectic puffer, deconstructed with a cutout shoulder, asymmetric hem, and wrap-around gingham ribbon. Talk about cool.
Marques’Almeida Oversized Asymmetric Quilted Jacket, $1,018, available at MatchesFashion.
The bomber silhouette, contrast sleeves, and fur collar: seriously, there is nothing to love about this jacket. You'll be wearing it for years to come.
Sandy Liang Allen Puffer, $1,120, available at Sandy Liang.
A pop of neon? Yes, please.
Alexander Wang Suede Puffer Jacket, $2,371 $948, available at StyleBop.
The perfect blend of utilitarian and fresh-off-the-runway vibes.
Moncler Bell Sleeve Puffer Jacket, $1,145, available at Farfetch.
A real (affordable) winner, the silhouette nods to Balenciaga, especially when worn off-the-shoulder. Done and done.
Mango Quilted Feather Coat, $129.99, available at Mango.
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