The Only 4 Coat Styles Worth Investing In This Year

I've always been an organized, "plan ahead" type of girl, so my entire fall and winter wardrobe is already 90% sorted. When creating this year's cold-weather capsule wardrobe, I focused my energy on finding the perfect coats. Outerwear is the single most important apparel decision this time of year both from a practical standpoint (read: staying warm) and a fashion one (read: looking stylish).

When I think of coats worth investing in, Max Mara immediately soars to the top of the list. The Italian heritage brand is known for quality craftsmanship and classic designs that stand the test of time. The brand's Icon coat collection is what outerwear dreams are made of, particularly these four styles that channel the quiet-luxury trend everyone is loving so much this year. Here's how I'd style them for chilly days ahead.

It's nearly impossible to talk about outerwear without including the original Teddy Coat from Max Mara. This style was an immediate celeb and It-girl favorite when it launched in 2013, and nearly 10 years later, its icon status remains. The coat is equal parts glamorous and playful—not to mention extremely cozy.

There's something so elegant about a white teddy coat. While it naturally complements any winter-white ensemble, I love it styled over a colorful look like this one. The layered blue separates and burgundy accessories topped with the white teddy coat is a dream color palette, if you ask me.

Speaking of color palettes, no one does neutrals quite like Max Mara. The Manuela coat in camel is an obvious favorite in part because of its rich tan hue. Other favorite details include the wrap silhouette and camel-hair fabric. (Talk about luxe.)

I'm a sucker for a monochromatic moment, so this outfit is a must for me. The matching skirt and overshirt make getting dressed so easy, and those combat boots and crossbody bag finish off the look with the same laid-back vibe as the coat. PS: This outfit is ideal for transitioning from fall to winter—just add tights.

This next coat is perfect for achieving a modern, borrowed-from-the-boys feel. The 101801 coat is a polished yet slightly boxy style that has been a staple in Max Mara's Fall/Winter collections since 1981. (Yes, that's over 40 years!) I can see why. It looks just as stunning styled over a casual denim outfit as it does with a sleek dress.

The styling here proves the latter. The fact that the dress color matches the chocolate hue of the coat so well is just the icing on the cake. Black patent accessories add a modern, luxe feel that makes clear why this coat has been a favorite year after year.

You know those cold winter days when you'd rather be wrapped up in a blanket all day? Well, those days call for the Ludmilla coat. Crafted from hand-stitched cashmere, it's far from your average wrap coat. It feels as cozy as the fabric implies and has that understated-luxury look to it.

I love the juxtaposition of this relaxed coat and the ultra-polished suit and structured handbag. The combination feels very cool and modern in an uptown-downtown way. Plus, how chic is the navy and gray color scheme? I have a feeling this look will be on repeat in many fashion girls' wardrobes (including my own) in no time.