So, we're in the thick of it. The holidays have passed, there’s little to look forward to, and honestly, it feels like we haven’t seen the sun in weeks. It’s officially seasonal depression weather. Let's face it: dressing for sad weather poses perhaps the greatest challenge of the year. In many places, the cold and dreariness is so intense that fashion feels like the last priority (gasp.) We've all faced this dilemma. But here's the good news: you don't have to sacrifice style for warmth; it's possible to achieve both. The key lies in finding the right coat, one that's as fashionable as it is functional. And if you're thinking, “I don't live in the Arctic, I don't need a coat that is engineered to endure temperatures as low as -40°F,” don't worry!  We've got a selection of lighter yet bold coats ideal for those less extreme conditions.

How do you go about finding this elusive perfect coat, you may ask? Fortunately, we've done the legwork and identified the top 14 brands to streamline your search. Our list includes timeless mainstays like Burberry with its classic trench and Max Mara with the ever-so-chic Teddy coat, as well as rising stars like London brand Shrimps and the it-girl favorite The Frankie Shop. From printed faux furs and luxurious cashmere car coats to essential puffers (yes, puffers can be chic, too!), our guide has you covered.

Dive into our curated selection below and embark on your coat-finding journey.

Apparis

Launched in 2018 by Amelie Brick and Lauren Nouchi, Apparis is a dynamic newcomer on the scene, championing ethical fashion. The founders, Brick and Nouchi, are advocates for luxury without the use of leather and fur, positioning Apparis as a sophisticated, ethical alternative. Best known for their vibrant vegan shearling coats, the brand also offers an array of vegan leather and wool coats featuring diverse patterns, styles, and colors, embodying their commitment to cruelty-free luxury.

Aritzia

Do not sleep on the Aritzia Super Puff! Our hands-on experience with this coat confirms—this thing is WARM. Crafted in Canada, a country known for its harsh winters, the Super Puff is engineered to endure temperatures as low as -40°F. The variety is impressive, with a vast array of colors and lengths to suit any preference. Moreover, the Super Puff line includes specialized options like water-repellent and wind-resistant features, catering to a broad range of weather conditions.

Burberry

Any checklist, roundup, or guide to "classic pieces" or "wardrobe staples" will always include the trench coat, and it's impossible to discuss this essential item without paying homage to the original: the Burberry trench coat. This iconic piece of fashion dates back to the early 20th century and was innovatively designed by Thomas Burberry. He revolutionized outerwear with his invention of gabardine fabric in 1879, a durable, water-resistant, and breathable material. Initially designed for military use during World War I, the coat featured practical elements like D-rings and shoulder straps to accommodate the needs of soldiers in the trenches, hence the name "trench coat." Over time, the Burberry trench coat has transcended its martial origins to become one of fashion's most versatile and enduring pieces.

LouLou Studio

Loulou Studio, rooted in Parisian design, offers a collection that epitomizes French elegance and simplicity. Established in 2019 by Chloé Harrouche, a street style fixture and Instagram influencer known as “LouLou De Saison,” the brand reflects her chic aesthetic. Prioritizing quality materials and craftsmanship, Loulou Studio has rapidly attracted a dedicated following. Its coats, notable for their clean lines and neutral palette, cater to the modern, on-the-go woman, blending sophistication with practicality.

Max Mara

Established in 1951, Max Mara is an iconic Italian fashion house renowned for its outerwear, with the Teddy Coat being its crown jewel. The brand recently celebrated the Teddy Coat's 10th anniversary this past September, marking a decade of unparalleled luxury and style. Featuring a cocooning silhouette and crafted from a premium blend of exceptionally soft wool, alpaca, and camel fibers, the Teddy Coat epitomizes luxury. It is as chic as it is warm. Available in a wide array of colors, from the classic camel to vibrant raspberry.

Moncler

Founded in France in 1952, Moncler made its mark with high-quality down jackets suited for cold climates. Over the years, Moncler has evolved from a brand known solely for its high-performance garments into a fashion-forward label. The brand now boasts three collections: the classic Moncler Collection, the performance-oriented Moncler Grenoble, and Moncler Genius, known for its high-profile collaborations with designers like Rick Owens, JW Anderson, Simone Rocha, Palm Angels (just to name a few.) This transformation has elevated Moncler to luxury fashion status.

Shrimps

Shrimps is your go-to for all things bold and bright. Launched by London-based designer Hannah Weiland in 2013, the brand has been at the forefront of introducing vibrant faux fur into the luxury fashion sphere. Renowned for its playful patterns and audacious use of color, Shrimps offers a distinctive blend of whimsy and luxury that sets it apart in the fashion world.

Stand Studio

In 2014, Nellie Kamras identified a niche in the market and founded Stand Studio, aiming to offer high-fashion leather outerwear at an accessible price point. A decade later, the brand has expanded its range, maintaining a focus on leather and faux fur while embracing wool, vegan leather, and cutting-edge sustainable materials. Stand Studio excels in reimagining classic designs, infusing traditional silhouettes with vibrant colors, bold patterns, and diverse fabrics, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to refresh timeless styles with a modern twist.

The Frankie Shop

Gaëlle Drevet, merging her French heritage with her New York lifestyle, established The Frankie Shop to celebrate the authenticity and individuality of the everyday woman. Since its 2014 opening on the Lower East Side, The Frankie Shop has distinguished itself with its signature oversized suiting and a seamless blend of modern, timeless, androgynous designs, showcasing a perfect mix of Parisian chic and New York edge. A vital aspect of The Frankie Shop's allure is its diverse price points, making high-fashion accessible without compromising quality. For instance, the Jordan wool coat exemplifies their approach: a double-breasted, peak-lapel design in luxurious gray wool, priced under $400, offering the look and feel of a premium garment at an attainable price point.

The Row

Investing in a high-quality coat is a wise decision; with proper care, such a piece can serve you for years, offering exceptional cost-per-wear value—particularly during the cold winter months when you might find yourself wearing the same coat daily. This brings us to the epitome of investment-worthy fashion: The Row. Founded in 2006 by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, The Row is synonymous with quiet luxury. The brand is committed to crafting timeless pieces with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the use of only the finest materials. Whether it's calf-length car coats in sumptuous cashmere, belted coats crafted from the smoothest calfskin leather, or single-breasted coats made from a premium blend of wool and silk, The Row's offerings are top-tier and has garnered fans from Jennifer Lawrence to Cate Blanchett.

Totême

For devotees of quiet luxury, Totême deserves a special mention. Established in 2014 by the Swedish duo Elin Kling and Karl Lindman, Totême epitomizes Scandinavian minimalism in fashion. The brand is lauded for its timeless, functional designs, making it a go-to for those seeking versatile wardrobe essentials. Among its varied offerings, Totême's outerwear stands out as particularly exceptional. Pieces like the cocoon coat, scarf jacket, and clasp jacket have become cult favorites and emblematic of the brand's commitment to understated elegance.

Wardrobe.NYC

Wardrobe.NYC epitomizes understated elegance with a touch of cool-girl flair. Known for its innovative approach to fashion, the brand specializes in creating curated wardrobe capsules that offer the ultimate mix-and-match versatility, essentially crafting the perfect capsule wardrobe. At the heart of any capsule wardrobe is the classic coat—we consider it the finishing touch to any polished ensemble. Wardrobe.NYC offers an array of timeless options that will be the cherry on top for many looks to come.