Warmth is the priority when it comes to winter outerwear, sure, but we'd be lying if we said we don't also want to look our best. Coats and other cozy pieces are such integral parts of our cold-weather wardrobes, after all, so it's nice to feel our ensembles are intentional rather than an uninspired layer. Luckily, current trends are in full support of outerwear as the main event, with an influx of everything from bold, statement coats and cool, head-turning collars to elevated sport silhouettes and the return of the '70s bomber. The beauty of such a range of silhouettes is that there's a coat for every occasion: Whether you're looking for a casual, everyday coat or a long, dressier option, you'll find styles that fit your needs while offering something fresh.
Read on to learn about seven of the top winter coat trends of 2025-26, complete with product picks sure to have you immediately planning your next outfit.
Statement Moment
So often, winter outerwear's sole mission is to create a protective layer between your outfit and the blustery cold. And what's more, it’s usually in dark, solid shades, like black, brown, and navy blue. Not anymore, though. Boring black puffers are out, statement coats are in. We are seeing colorful, animal print, loud prints and print mixes, fur trims, feathers, embellishments, and embroidery—it’s a maximalist fever dream.
Statement and embellished coats breathe life back into the often bleak season. Getting dressed for winter can sometimes feel dreary and drab because it’s dark outside, you’re piling on layers, and most of the clothing options are darker or neutral.
The best part about statement coats? They make you look put-together, even if you run out of the house half-dressed for the day. It’s a statement in itself, and no matter what you’re wearing underneath—athleisure to walk your dog or the same jeans and black sweater for multiple days in a row—you will look and feel put together, fashion forward, and I guarantee you’ll receive compliments.
Scarf Included
Scarves are not a requirement this winter, as some of the top trending coats have that functionality built in. The coat with the attached scarf has hit mainstream this fall. The coat with the attached scarf was one of the first, and this season, we're seeing a lot of similar wool coats with attached scarf detailing. I love the two-in-one option, so you always have a matching scarf and a monochromatic, sleek look.
Standout Collars
A major highlight of current winter coats is the distinctive collar design, often featuring striking color blocking in terms of material, tone, and silhouette. Exquisite collars, draped scarves, double-layered lapels… these neck details elevate the style of classic coats. The oversized sheepskin and faux fur collars, readily available in the market, are the icing on the cake.
Animal Print Outerwear
Our love for leopard print is no secret, and all animal print coats this season (and indeed all year) are worth trying. Animal prints never go out of style, but this year they're truly everywhere, and it's not just leopard and cheetah prints; we've also seen zebra, cow, snake, and Dalmatian print coats.
In winter, cozy, fluffy fabrics are often the most popular, but if you prefer a sporty style, a printed down jacket is also a good choice. If the weather isn't too cold, printed coats in slightly less warm materials like wool, suede, or leather are also a good option.
Shearling And Fur Textures
When it comes to warm, fluffy coats, Zhang and Lopez agree that sheepskin and fur are leading the fashion winter trend. The exceptional textures make this season's coats particularly coveted, from soft sheepskin to comfortable faux fur—there's something for everyone to express your personality.
And what's more, these styles are incredibly warm, even the faux fur. They're fun and edgy, and having lived in New York for years, I've found them warmer than some traditional down jackets I've worn. This year, the trend is even more pronounced, with larger and longer furs and sheepskins, feather embellishments, and a variety of colors and prints.
Suede Silhouettes
Suede is one of those materials that’s surprisingly warm, yet notably thinner than your average winter coat. Suede is the new It material this season. The past few years have been about leather, but last year we started seeing a rise in suede outerwear, [as well as an] increase in brown outerwear, accessories, and tones throughout fashion.
Longline Wool Coats
Another textile that can be thinner and often dressier in appearance, while still offering satisfying warmth, is wool. The long wool coat isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, but what we are seeing this winter is sharper tailoring, dramatic shoulders, oversized lapels, funky buttons and closures, and colors.
