Everyone With Great Taste Will Be Wearing These 5 Coat Trends From Now Until Spring
I'll take one of each, thank you.
The art of winter dressing is a strategic craft, fusing together knee-high boots, cashmere scarfs, and chic earmuffs into one cozy-yet-polished ensemble. Get the balance wrong, and the odds of looking like a fluffy marshmallow increase. Fashion people cracked the code, though: the perfect cold-weather outfit formula begins with the top winter coat trends of 2026—and you don’t want to sleep on these luxe designs.
The best winter coats keep you warm while looking incredibly sleek—proof that you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for style. And it’s not limited to a single silhouette, either: tie-front finds, faux-fur picks, and sleek funnel necks all pass the test. It’s simply about securing the style that fits your desired occasion and aesthetic the most—whether you’re searching for chill and cozy or refined and upscale. Lucky for you, this winter is serving up some of the most standout options yet.
Even better, these 2026 winter coat trends are unfussy and simple to wear. Regardless if you’re brunching at the corner café or sipping champagne at a glitzy holiday party, these styles are versatile and timeless. So, yes, that means you can wear them with everything from chunky sneakers and barrel-leg jeans to sling-back heels and your favorite cocktail dress. Because no matter the outfit, a do-it-all coat pulls everything into place.
Below, I’m spotlighting the five winter coat trends everyone with an eye for style will be wearing from now until the spring buds begin to bloom. With coats starting at a healthy $125 price point, you’ll be tempted to secure more than one—and I won’t tell when you do.
Retro Revival
Get the look: Shaggy-trimmed coat + Transparent stockings + Slingback heels + Baguette bag + Slim sunglasses
Rooted in the traditional Afghan coat silhouette, today’s “Penny Lane” top layer takes its pop-culture cue from the ‘70s-glam film Almost Famous. The retro silhouette often includes a suede or faux-suede exterior, shaggy trim, and extended silhouette. It commands attention, sprucing up even the simplest of outfits, including scoop-neck longsleeves, streamlined trousers, and comfortable Mary Janes. For a maximalist take, slip on a pair of pointed-toe heels, sheer tights, and your favorite party dress. Similar coats don’t have to come in one monochrome hue, either. Try a multi-colored palette that transitions from winter to spring with ease.
Go Wild
Get the look: Animal-print coat + Crewneck sweater + Straight-leg jeans + Slim sunglasses + Leather gloves + Statement earrings + Patent loafers
In my book, animal print is considered a neutral, courtesy of its subdued hues and wear-anywhere aesthetic. It doesn’t only stand out in a sea of midnight- and cream-colored top layers, but it’s secured its place as a covetable trend to follow—whether you snag a popular leopard design or unexpected zebra motif. The trend also elevates the most understated ensembles—including crewneck sweaters, leather boots, and wide-leg jeans. For a vibrant take, add a pop of cherry red or electric lime underneath for a striking, maximalist interpretation.
The Bathrobe, Elevated
Get the look: Tie-front coat + Fuzzy bucket hat + Gold-tone jewelry + Structured handbag
Dubbed a “bathrobe coat,” this silhouette perfectly balances comfort and style. The tie-front design mimics your favorite at-home wrap, while polished elements—like sharp lapels, clean pockets, and brushed fabric—elevate the capsule-wardrobe essential. Snag the genius separate in a versatile shade, like deep chocolate brown or marshmallow white, ensuring its timeless appeal. Bonus: it serves as the ideal base layer, ready to style with diamond studs, elegant oval-faced watches, and structured handbags.
Double-Duty Warmth
Get the look: Scarf coat + Platform heels + Tube socks + Two-toned accessories
Who doesn’t love a versatile two-in-one essential? A scarf coat doesn’t just keep you warm—it comes with an attached shawl for built-in style. Thanks to this integrated design, it’s one less thing you have to worry about, making getting dressed and out the door a breeze. The only thing you have to decide is if you’ll wrap it, drape it, or tie it—there’s no wrong way to do it.
Apart from the goof-proof silhouette, it possesses a certain je ne sais quoi about it, offering a trend-forward edge to even the simplest wardrobes. So, go ahead and throw it on over cashmere cable-knit sets, lined maxi skirts, and ribbed dresses alike.
The Bold Funnel
Get the look: Funnel-neck coat + Silver jewelry + Large sunglasses + Straight-leg jeans + Baguette bag
If you’re after that effortless cool-girl energy, don’t settle for anything but a funnel-neck coat. The daring silhouette offers architectural interest, elongating the neck and nixing the need for a scarf, protecting against fierce winds. Choice details also define the overall aesthetic: puff sleeves and leather features turn up the fashion-forward edge, while sleek fabric belts and tortoise-shell buttons exude polish and simplicity. If you're after a model-approved vibe, size up for a slouchy, relaxed fit.
Ruby Ford-Dunker (formerly Ruby McAuliffe) is a fashion, beauty, and lifestyle journalist featured in InStyle, the New York Post, Brides, Teen Vogue, Page Six, Shape, and more. When she’s not reporting on her latest fashion obsession or spotlighting beauty finds, she can be found listening to Taylor Swift, hunting for the best matcha latte, playing with her cats, or smiling her way through a dance workout. Email Ruby at therubybrand@gmail.com and keep up with her on Instagram @rubyymcauliffe.