Our Editors Just Tried on Dozens of Coats in Order to Find the Perfect One

Our We Try Before You Buy series aims to take the stress out of shopping and eliminate the number of post office visits you make each month to return failed online orders. We test new-season buys and styling ideas so you don't have to, thus saving you some coin by letting you know what's worth the spend.

Finding a good winter coat can take time. You want something that's timeless, warm and somewhat trendy. However, it can be surprisingly difficult to tick all of these boxes. That's why I—along with fellow editors Hannah Almassi, Joy Montgomery, Isabel Mundigo-Moore—tried on 13 coats that cover all the key trends this winter to give you a head start on the Great Coat Hunt. There's a leopard option, a mock-croc trench, a teddy-bear coat, a leather puffer and every other type of coat you could possibly wish for. Keep scrolling to shop the 13 coats our editors are loving right now.

The verdict: "For me, this is the dream autumn jacket (although, admittedly, I'm a bit of a jacket fiend). The trench-like fit with the high-shine patent fabric makes me feel like I'm in a '70s spy film. It's one of those pieces that'll instantly elevate a simple white tee and-jeans outfit. This is the perfect statement piece for those who don't do prints or colour," says Joy Montgomery.

The verdict: This wool Mango checked coat is one of my favourites I've tried; I love how it's so long and almost meets my jeans. This colour will also go with almost everything I own.

The verdict: "If it's fun you're looking for, this is the coat. The vibrant orange shade appealed to me because every other coat I own is so plain. And if you're going with faux fur, you may as well go wild. It's quite bulky around the collar, and because I have a bigger bust, it isn't the most flattering in that zone. However, there's no denying it cheers you (and a pair of jeans) up immensely," says Hannah Almassi.

The verdict: "I was worried that this Ganni coat would be a bit too boxy, but after trying it, I love it and think I will buy it. It has a vintage quality to its shape and was just thick enough to keep me warm but not overheated. I loved the pockets too. I just love this coat," says Isabel Mundigo-Moore.

The verdict: "This is not a coat to be messing around with: it's fuzzy, chunky and very long. I think if you can get your proportions right, this is a winning autumn piece, as it looks so much more expensive than some of the high street's other teddy coat offerings. I would say stick to streamlined separates underneath and, preferably, heeled boots to avoid the length swamping you," says Montgomery.

Related: Winter 2018 Fashion Trends: The Only Looks You Need to Know

The verdict: This Nanushka checked coat is lightweight, but because it's so oversized, it'll layer over another jacket or really chunky knitwear. The pockets are also bigger than many of my handbags.

The verdict: "I'm loving a bit of khaki at the moment, as it's a great alternative to my usual go-to neutrals such as black and beige. This MSGM coat has all the makings of a timeless classic thanks to its tailored fit; however, it manages to stay up-to-date thanks to its unusual ribbed knit arms and karate-style colour-pop belt. I can imagine wearing this with everything from casual denim to work-ready midi dresses," says Montgomery.

The verdict: "I spend all summer wanting to dress like a flamenco dancer, so why stop when there's a coat that does the trick for winter? Because I'm 5'1", this is probably a little long and heavy for my frame, but the quality is superb. It feels delightful on and to swish about in. If you're a classic trench coat loving girl who just wants to break out and try something different, I'd say this is the one," says Almassi.

The verdict: "This was very different to my usual style, and I kind of loved feeling like an extra from Almost Famous. I've seen quite a few coats in this style this season, and I this is the best version I've seen at this price. It's so soft and fits really nicely," says Mundigo-Moore.

The verdict: Is it a coat or a scarf? I'm not exactly sure what I would class this as, but this Holzweiler poncho feels very glamorous for what is effectively a giant blanket.

Related: It's the Perfect Time to Invest in a Great Winter Coat—28 That Stand Out

The verdict: "The almost '80s-style overcoat fit of this Materiel coat made me feel like Melanie Griffiths in Working Girl when she was on top of her game. This piece is powerful and strong, contrasted with a gorgeous shape in the back. The blue is very on trend for 2018, but this is the kind of coat you'll wear forever and feel special all over again every time you bring it back out," says Mundigo-Moore.

The verdict: "Karen Millen's tailored coats are our best-kept secret right now. The fit is fabulous and the fabric is really great up close (it's very textural). This was actually my favourite of the lot. I like that it can we be worn for many many winters to come. Who would have guessed?" says Almassi.

The verdict: "I've seen the Nanushka puffa everywhere since its launch last year, and I had to try it. Firstly, it's so warm and comfortable. The faux leather is buttery and delicious. While the tall collar was new for me and made me feel dramatic, once I got used to it, I was feeling this look. Such a stunning alternative for the extra-cold days in the year. Highly recommend," says Mundigo-Moore.

Next up, see our guide to the key trends for autumn/winter 2018.