Every year, I notice the same gap in my closet: cold-weather clothing. Last year, I started to fix that with a Filippa Hägg wool coat, thermal tights, and insulated boots.
This year, I'm continuing the same goal, focusing on scarves, bonnets, alpaca-fur hats, warm layers, cashmere, and more outerwear. Beyond my wool coat, I want variety. I finally picked up a black puffer for the truly frigid months when a coat should feel more like a blanket, but my ideal outerwear lineup also includes a classic trench and a bit of faux fur—maybe even a vintage Wilsons or Jones New York leather piece from eBay.
Since coats can be such expensive investments, I did some research and found chic options for under $350. Highlights include trench coats from Peachy Den and Rue Sophie, wool styles from Ralph Lauren and Mango, puffers from Aritzia and The North Face, and faux-fur picks from Revolve and Zara.
Trench Coats
When I think of the perfect fall layer, I always come back to a classic: the trench coat. The Cheri Trench from Peachy Den has been sitting in my cart for a while, but I've also been eyeing styles from Rue Sophie. In New York, the weather usually reaches that tipping point in October when I have to switch to something heavier, but I love that a trench gets so much more wear again come spring.
Wool Coats
I recently learned that the trick to wearing a wool coat longer into the season is layering a Uniqlo Pufftech underneath. I have a Filippa Hägg coat—which is slightly above the $350 budget at $376—but I found great alternatives from Ralph Lauren, Mango, and more.
Puffer Coats
For whatever reason, I avoided getting a puffer coat for the longest time. This year, I'm finally leaning into the long Aritzia Super Puff. At a certain point in winter, I just need something that covers most of my body and keeps me warm against the wind and freezing temperatures.
Faux-Fur Coats
In the winter, my wardrobe can start to feel a little drab—warmth usually comes first. That's why having a few statement coats is so fun. Faux fur was one of the biggest runway trends at the fall/winter 2025 shows, so it's at the top of my list. When I shop for vintage coats, I like using keywords like "afghan coat" and "Penny Lane coat" to find unique pieces.
