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Best winter coats for women: 21 jackets to keep you stylish and snug
Looking to stay cosy and stylish this winter? Here’s our guide to the best winter coats for women as recommended by Mumsnet users, with top picks to suit every budget.
By Lucy Cotterill | Last updated Mar 8, 2024
We’ve recently been blessed with a long overdue Indian summer, but before we know it, the nights will be darker and winter will be well and truly upon us. With autumn/winter ranges now hitting the shelves, and Mumsnetters already starting to invest in cosy essentials like electric blankets and hot water bottles, now is the perfect time to stock up on one of the best winter coats for women to help you stay warm and look stylish when the seasons change.
Every year, the Mumsnet Style & Beauty forums are packed full of discussions about the best winter coat for staying warm and dry, and we've scoured the Talk boards on our quest to bring you the top pieces to invest in this year. So get cosy, pop on a comfy pair of the best women’s slippers, and get ready to discover your new favourite winter coat.
Whether you're looking for a parka to withstand wintry dog walks or a pop of colour to brighten up the dark and dreary school run, we’ve found the best warm coats and cosy waterproofs, as well as some stylish faux fur and down coats too, as recommended by fashionable (and warm) Mumsnet users.
Best winter coats for women 2024: at a glance
Best overall: Seasalt Janelle Waterproof Coat, £160
Best budget: Trespass Clea Waterproof Concealable Jacket, from £42
Best from the high street: FatFace Long Puffer Coat, £170
Best for warmth: North Face Arctic Parka, £395
Best plus-size: Simply Be Black Faux Fur Trim Parka, £30 (down from £60!)
Wide range of colours, sizes and proportions
5000mm waterproof rating
Warm and quilted on the lower half for ease of movement
Not the cheapest for those on a budget
RRP: £160 | Material: Outer coat: 100% recycled nylon; Lining: 100% polyester | Colour variations: Eight | Sizes available: UK sizes 6 to 26-28, plus tall and petite | Hood: Yes
A high-quality coat that’s built to last, Mumsnet users couldn’t speak more highly of the Seasalt Janelle Coat. Designed to withstand the exposed Cornish coastline, it’s just as cosy for school runs and trips around the city. Available to suit all body shapes and sizes, the Janelle coat comes in tall, regular or petite proportions with sizes from 6 to 28. You can also select from a range of colours – from traditional black and charcoal, to bolder red or mustard shades.
The exterior is made from recycled nylon Tide Cycle, which is both waterproof and breathable for extra comfort whilst offering protection against the elements. We love the detachable hood with a peak to keep those raindrops out of your face, whilst the reflective strips to the rear mean you can be visible even on the darkest winter nights.
Related: The best draught excluders for insulating your home
Trespass Clea Waterproof Concealable Jacket
Long length with a dipped hem at the back so it provides great coverage
Waterproof up to 5000mm
Coldheat insulation
Some reviewers found the buttons for the hood caught in their hair
RRP: From £42 | Materials: Polyester | Colour variations: Black, khaki, blue, red or ghost (white) | Sizes available: XXS to XXL | Hood: Yes
If you want to keep snug this winter without blowing the budget, you can pick up this warm Trespass Clea Jacket at a really affordable price. With an outer shell that is both windproof and waterproof up to 5000mm, the tapered sleeves protect you from the chilly winter air, whilst Coldheat insulation keeps you toasty even on the coldest of days.
The hood is adjustable and the faux fur trim is great for catching snow debris, but can be removed if preferred to alternate your look. If you’re heading out on some winter walks, the Clea coat provides two deep pockets to the front (perfect for storing one of the best hand warmers for added comfort) as well as a smaller zip pocket for stashing your phone or loose change.
Longer length design offers excellent coverage
Made from sustainable fabrics
The hood can be tucked away when not required
Only shower-proof (not entirely waterproof)
Only available in two colours
RRP: £170 | Materials: Polyester | Colour variations: Blue or black | Sizes available: UK sizes 6 to 24 | Hood: Yes
Many of us have become more aware of our shopping habits in recent years, opting for more eco-friendly or sustainable fabrics that can stand the test of time. Made from a 100% recycled polyester filling and from a Certified B Corp brand, FatFace’s Harley Long Puffer coat is one of the best sustainable coats for women on our list and our top-ranking high-street purchase. It’s also the kind of coat that can be worn all winter round – whether you’re watching football at the park, dashing to the supermarket or rushing to pick up the kids from school.
With a long length and a cosy fleece-lined back yoke, it offers great warmth and excellent coverage for colder days, with spacious pockets to help keep your fingers toasty too. Whilst it’s not completely waterproof, the shower-resistant coating and fleece-lined hood are a big plus point if you forget to take your umbrella on the school run. If you’re lucky and the skies clear, you can even conveniently tuck the hood away when not needed to create an entirely new look.
Excellent value for money
Stylish, smart design
Great fit and quality
Not waterproof
Some reviewers say the pockets are fake
RRP: £50 | Materials: Polyester and recycled polyester | Colour variations: Black, grey, camel | Sizes available: UK 6 to 22 | Hood: No
If you're heading to the warmth of the office this winter, you may want to refresh your wardrobe with a new smart coat. This New Look Formal Longline Coat is available in a range of three different colours, from the more traditional classic camel to a cool stone grey.
Fully lined for comfort, this coat makes the perfect piece for layering up over the best thermals for women on particularly chilly days. What's more, wearers rave about the quality and fit, claiming it looks a lot more expensive than its bargain price tag. The only downside is that some reviewers say the pockets are for appearance only and aren't actually useable.
Stylish wool design
Smart enough for the office/work events
Long length
Dry clean only
No hood
Costly
RRP: £365 | Fabric: 100% wool | Colour variations: Neutral (tan) and red (plum) | Sizes available: UK sizes 6 - 16 | Hood: No
If you’re looking for a coat that's versatile enough to wear for both work and social settings, this luxurious and elegant woollen pea coat from Jigsaw is ideal. Cut to a long length with a single button to the front, it creates a flattering profile and will keep you warm and comfortable when the temperatures drop. It's quite similar to the New Look coat above, but this is a premium, high-end upgrade – with the price tag to match.
We love the internal pocket and contrasting collar, however, there’s no hood with this design, so if the weather’s looking a little unpredictable, you may want to keep your umbrella close to hand.
Extremely warm for icy days
Not restrictive
Full-length coverage
Petite and plus sizes are available
You may find it a bit too warm on milder days
No option to draw in at the waist
RRP: £138 | Materials: Polyester, nylon, elastane, acrylic, down and feathers insulation | Colour variations: Seven | Sizes available: UK sizes 8 to 28 - 30. Petite is also available in sizes 8 to 16 - 18 | Hood: Yes
If your weekends are mostly spent standing around watching the kids play sports, you’re going to need a coat with significant coverage to protect you from the UK’s unpredictable weather. The full-length Land’s End Maxi Long Down Coat provides warmth from top to lower calf, without making you waddle like an emperor penguin. Unlike many similar designs, this maxi coat isn’t restrictive thanks to its lightweight insulation, two-way main zip and additional side zips at the seam, allowing your legs to move freely whilst keeping you protected from the elements.
On wet and blustery days, you’ll be thankful for the generous hood with faux-fur trim, whilst the water-resistant shell will ensure you stay dry. This coat comes with Land’s End’s ‘warmest’ rating and has 600-fill power HyperDRY down insulation that’ll keep you comfortable even on the coldest of days.
Related: The cosiest kids' blanket hoodies according to parents
Rab Women’s Deep Cover Down Parka
Made from sustainable materials
Lightweight yet warm
Durable water-repellent finish
Removable faux-fur lined hood
Internal storm flap
Significant price tag
Only goes up to a size 16
RRP: £250 | Materials: Polyamide with a down insulation | Colour variations: Grey and blue | Sizes available: UK sizes 8 - 16 | Hood: Yes
Down-filled jackets and coats are renowned for their ability to hold in heat, capturing pockets of your body heat within the insulation to keep you toasty warm in cold conditions. Mumsnet users and online reviewers speak really highly of Rab coats, specifically for their flattering fit and the Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating that allows them to withstand whatever the British weather has in store.
Filled with high-quality and recycled 700 FP P.U.R.E down insulation, the Deep Cover Down Parka is the perfect defence for the coldest days. The removable faux-fur trimmed hood will also prevent you from losing valuable body heat on your outdoor adventures, whilst the elasticated cuffs with thumb holes help avoid frosty fingers on icy mornings. It doesn't come cheap but it's certainly worth the investment.
Superdry Faux Fur Hooded Longline Light Padded Puffer Coat
Long length
Recycled padding
Detachable faux-fur lined hood
Slim fit for a more natural silhouette
Not available in larger sizes
A fitted design means some reviewers had to size up
RRP: £92 | Fabric: Polyester, nylon, acrylic, modacrylic | Colour variations: Black, brown, green or navy | Sizes available: UK sizes 8-16 | Hood: Yes
Whilst there was a bit of debate on the Mumsnet forums about whether you could ever be ‘too old’ for Superdry, the consensus was that the brand offers high-quality clothing that is suitable for everyone. The ideal balance of fashion and functionality, this Superdry Light Padded Puffer Coat will be a welcome layer on colder days when you have to leave your heated throw behind at home. The padding is made from 100% recycled bottles, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly choice too.
The slimline fit means some reviewers felt more comfortable sizing up, but it creates a natural silhouette without the risk of looking like the Michelin man. The branding is also super subtle, with a small tab and embroidered badge on the upper sleeve.
Rechargeable heated panels
Durable water-repellent finish
Thermoguard quick-drying insulation that traps air for additional warmth
Two-way zip for comfort
Relatively simple design
Costly
Battery pack sold separately
RRP: £66 | Materials: 100% polyester | Colour variations: Black, blue, red, copper, green | Sizes available: UK sizes 8-20 | Hood: Yes
Did you know that for really cold days, you can even get a coat that heats up? If you're going on a winter walk or spending significant amounts of time stationary in the great outdoors, this coat could be just the one for you. So toasty you may be reluctant to take it off, the Regatta Voltra III Waterproof Jacket offers all-weather protection thanks to its waterproof/breathable isomer 5000 performance fabric and durable water-repellent coating.
The magic of this coat, however, lies on the inside, with slimline panels around the back and chest that can heat up to three different levels and be controlled entirely by the wearer - much like the best heated gilet but with sleeves. Even better, the Thermoguard insulation helps trap the generated heat and keep it there, ensuring your core is kept warm. It’s worth noting that the battery pack is sold separately, so you’ll need to factor this into the overall cost.
Smart yet fun design
Relaxed fit
Warm and cosy
Expensive
Design won't be to everyone's taste
Not waterproof
RRP: £320 | Materials: Wool, polyester, acrylic, polyamide, elastane | Colour variations: Yellow and pink | Sizes available: UK size 6 to 22 | Hood: No
This Boden beauty is our best statement coat thanks to its check print and choice of two striking colours, yellow and pink. Combining a relaxed fit with smart tailoring, this bold coat will keep you looking stylish whether you're doing the school run or heading into the office.
The obvious downside is the cost – at over £300, it's eye-wateringly pricey, but the high-quality fabric and thoughtful design mean it should serve you well for several winters. It's the ultimate chuck-it-on-and-go coat that can brighten up even the most basic of outfits.
Protects against cold, wind and heavy downpours
Drawstring to enhance the waist
Press stud adjustable cuffs
Adjustable hood
Not the most stylish of designs
Need to convert from EU sizing
RRP: From £176 | Materials: Polyamide | Colour variations: Black, dark blue, red | Sizes available: EU 32-52 (approximately UK 8 to 26) | Hood: Yes
Didriksons has a wide variety of coat styles to choose from, allowing you to pick the best design for your size and body shape. For a great all-round, all-weather coat, the Thelma Waterproof Parka comes packed with useful features to keep you warm and protected, whatever the weather forecast may bring. From the 100% windproof and 8000mm waterproof and breathable outer to the taped seams and dual-adjusted hood, the Thelma has got you covered – literally.
We love the two-way zip for easy movement, large pockets for convenience and the drawstring at the waist for a more flattering fit. The hardest part? You’ll need to convert the European sizing choices to UK sizes and may have difficulty deciding which of the three colours to choose from – we love the Dark Night Blue.
Related: The best thermal curtains for keeping the warm in
Stylish design but with all the outdoor terrain benefits
600-fill recycled waterfowl down
Large hood with removable faux-fur trim
Internal elasticated cuffs with thumbholes keep warmth around the hands
Some reviewers felt the hood could be deeper
Significant investment (but made to last)
RRP: £395 | Materials: Recycled polyester with non-PFC durable water-repellent finish and down insulation | Colour variations: Black, navy, white, berry | Sizes available: XS to 3XL | Hood: Yes
Once you find a high-quality coat that successfully keeps you warm, it can quickly become the old faithful that makes its yearly appearance as soon as the leaves start falling from the trees. Mumsnet users definitely felt this way about the North Face Arctic Parka which, despite its significant price tag, certainly proves itself on a cost-per-wear basis, with many Mumsnetters having worn them for several years. The large fur trim hood helps you embrace your inner Arctic explorer, whilst the insulation is significant – a mix of light and lofty responsibly sourced down combined with synthetic Heatseeker™ Eco, which warms when damp.
With all the benefits of an outdoor terrain jacket (but far more stylish), the Arctic Parka is one of North Face’s most popular designs, and with good reason. The thick waterproof outer is the perfect barrier from rain and snow and it even blocks windchill from penetrating inside.
Relatively affordable
Cool, edgy style
Goes with many outfits
Not the warmest option for super cold days
Runs big
Only one colour
RRP: £69 | Materials: Polyester and polyurethane | Colour variations: Black | Sizes available: UK 6 to 24 | Hood: No
When we saw the glowing reviews for this effortlessly stylish biker jacket from M&S, we couldn't resist giving it a coveted spot on our round-up of the best winter coats for women. With a relaxed, oversized fit and a versatile design that goes with just about anything, it offers excellent value for money if you want a jacket under £100.
Admittedly, it's not the warmest coat on our list, so if you're facing rain, snow or extreme conditions, you may want something with a little more insulation. That said, we still think this is a fantastic option for milder days.
Related: Best heated gloves for warming your mitts
Whistles Lauren Faux Fur Biker
Modern design
Choice of colours
Suitable for day and night wear
Dry clean only
Short length
No hood
RRP: £199 | Material: Leather and polyester | Colour variations: Black, navy, burgundy | Sizes available: XS to XL | Hood: No
If you’re looking for a really unique, warm and stylish coat this winter, the Whistles Lauren Faux Fur Biker could be just the one, as it's the perfect mix of a classic leather jacket and a faux-fur coat. Much like the M&S jacket above, this has a stylish, edgy look, but the main difference between the two is that this is crafted from real leather.
Available in a choice of navy, burgundy or black with a large fur trim collar, this versatile shorter-length coat looks great teamed up with midi dresses and pumps, but also works well with denim and jeans for a more relaxed daytime look.
It’s not the warmest coat on our list, however, so you may want something with a hood for those extra cold days.
Related: Best dressing gown for men according to Mumsnet users
Versatile style goes with trousers as well as skirts/dress
Machine washable
Made with recycled materials
No colour variations
RRP: £165 | Materials: Recycled polyester, modacrylic, acrylic | Colour variations: Black only | Sizes available: UK sizes XS - L | Hood: No
This single-breasted faux fur coat from & Other Stories is incredibly versatile; its shorter length makes it a great accompaniment to dresses and skirts as well as trousers and jeans. Its soft lining is made from 100% recycled polyester, making it a sustainable, environmentally-friendly option as well as an on-trend one.
It's machine washable too, which saves the faff of going to the dry cleaners, and can even be tumble dried (on low) as well, making it super practical as well as stylish. We love the concealed duo side pockets and the hidden snap button closures for a smooth, sleek look.
Related: The best kids’ hot water bottle, as recommended by parents
Stylish fishtail hem
Hand warmer pockets at the chest
Iconic tartan lining
Faux-fur trim
Not available in larger sizes
Costly (though currently on sale)
Sponge clean only
RRP: From £189 | Fabric: Waxed cotton | Colour variations: Black, olive and rustic | Sizes available: UK women’s 8-18 | Hood: Yes
Most Mumsnet users agree that pockets in your winter coat are an absolute must, and you’ll be spoiled for choice with this waved Barbour Kelsall Parka. With six pockets on the exterior alone, you can be confident your hands will be warm and your possessions protected, wherever your travels may take you.
Available in a choice of rustic, black or dark olive colours, with Barbour’s iconic tartan lining, this breathable parka has a drawstring at the waist for a flattering and stylish look. It’ll also keep you nice and warm before you head home and swap it for the best blanket hoodie. We love the faux-fur lined built-in hood for rainy days, and whilst there’s no doubt this is an investment piece, it’s certainly built to last.
Stylish and smart wool design
Choice of wearing styles including a high-necked collar for colder days
Metallic trims to belt
Wrap style flattering at the waist
Costly - on sale currently though
Only goes up to a size 16
Be warned - you may find yourself lusting after more than one colour
RRP: £228 | Materials: 72% wool, 25% polyamide, 3% cashmere | Colour variations: Camel, black, pink, teal, red | Sizes available: Ted size zero (UK 6) to Ted size 5 (UK 16) | Hood: No
One of Ted Baker’s signature designs that is a popular choice year after year, this wool mid-length wrap coat makes a versatile and stylish choice. It’s smart enough to be worn to the office, whilst also being relaxed and comfortable for winter walks over the weekend. With a button and belt for a secure and flattering fit, we love the option of raising the collar to keep in the warmth during colder days.
The Ted Baker Wool Wrap Coat is available in a wide variety of colours, ideal for adding a pop of colour to dark and dreary mornings, but be warned - you may find yourself struggling to choose between shades.
A shorter length is ideal for petite women
Lightweight yet warm
Windproof and durable water-repellent finish
Substantial sized hood
Dry clean only
Some may prefer a full-length design to offer more leg coverage
RRP: £160 | Materials: Elastomultiester, polyester, down, feathers | Colour variations: Black, green, cream, wine | Sizes available: XXS to XXL | Hood: Yes
Uniqlo have a wide range of women’s coats and thanks to their MySize assist, you can put in your height and weight to find the perfect size for your frame.
This Seamless Down Short Coat offers excellent protection from the rain and wind, with a simple but well-insulated design that keeps in the warmth without weighing you down. We love the high-necked collar and substantial hood, but it’s worth noting that the water-repellent coating can wear off over time.
Wide range of sizes to suit all body shapes
Affordable price point (currently on sale)
Showerproof fabric
Faux-fur trim hood
Only one colour is available
RRP: From £42 | Materials: Polyester | Colour variations: Black only | Sizes available: UK sizes 10 - 32 | Hood: Yes
Whilst a lot of the coats on our list come up to size 22, you may prefer to opt for a plus-sized coat to ensure the ultimate comfort this winter. The Simply Be Fur Lined Parka is a simple yet classic design that will quickly become a staple addition to your wardrobe. Whilst there is only one choice of colour, it comes with a relatively affordable price tag too.
Thanks to the warm and cosy hood with faux-fur trim, large pockets and dipped hem to the back, this parka offers excellent coverage, with a showerproof coating that can protect from the elements whilst maintaining your sense of style.
Related: The best women’s dressing gown for cosy nights in
Lasts through pregnancy and beyond
Cosy faux-fur lining
Weather-resistant exterior
Detachable faux-fur trim to the hood
You’ll need to buy a separate baby carrier to benefit from the baby-wearing pouch
RRP: £183 | Fabric: 58% polyester, 42% cotton | Colour variations: Black, green, navy | Sizes available: UK sizes 6 - 24 | Hood: Yes
Finding the best maternity coat can be tricky. Traditional coats don’t fit or button up, and wrap coats can leave you feeling the chill around your chest. The Seraphine 3-in-1 is a great solution and is designed for use during pregnancy and beyond. With a drawstring tie at the waist, there is plenty of space for your bump to grow and it has a soft faux-fur lining and weather-resistant exterior, so it’ll keep you and your baby toasty warm on colder days.
When your baby finally makes its appearance, the extra panel zips on the front create a versatile kangaroo pouch around your baby carrier (sold separately), keeping your baby warm whilst helping you carry them with comfort and style.
Waterproof and windproof
Unisex design
Deep external zipped pockets
Internal pocket for phone and keys
Lightweight despite its warmth
Not the most flattering design
Less suitable for everyday use
RRP: £165 | Materials: Recycled nylon and polyester | Colour variations: 14 | Sizes available: S to XL | Hood: Yes
Originally designed as a changing robe for surfers and bodyboarders, Dryrobes have grown hugely in popularity over the last year. They make a practical choice to keep you warm and dry whilst enjoying outdoor adventures - whether that’s winter walks by the sea or supporting your child from the sidelines during drizzly morning football sessions.
With a long-sleeved, unisex design and cosy synthetic lambswool lining, the wind and waterproof shell can keep you well protected, whatever the weather throws at you. Thanks to the internal and external pockets, you’ll also have plenty of space to stash your essentials.
How much should a winter coat cost?
The cost of winter coats can vary considerably, but on average you can expect to spend around the £100 mark to get a high-quality waterproof coat that will keep you warm and protect you against the elements.
If you’re going to invest in a more expensive item, it's worth considering the cost per wear and how long the coat will last. Sometimes the phrase ‘buy cheap, buy twice’ does ring true.
How should a winter coat fit?
Coats can vary in terms of fit, with some offering a slimline, fitted design and others a more relaxed, oversized style. As a general rule however, you should avoid getting coats that fit too tightly against your body - not only for comfort but to ensure you have space for layers and room for body heat to circulate freely underneath. You should be able to raise your arms comfortably above your head, without them pulling significantly across the top of your back.
We recommend trying on winter coats where possible, but if in doubt, order the size up for designs that refer to a slim fit.
What is the warmest women's winter coat?
The coats that are the warmest tend to have a high-quality down interior, which traps heat between the pockets in the insulation to keep your core warm and protected against the elements. Most of the warmest coats also have taped seams and a large hood to keep the chill and wind away from your face.
We think The North Face Arctic Parka is one of the best women's winter coats for UK winters as it'll keep you warm without compromising on style. However, if you really want a coat that guarantees warmth no matter how freezing the day, a rechargeable heated jacket like the Regatta Voltera, which includes USB heat panels, is pretty hard to beat.
What is the most affordable women's winter coat?
With energy prices rising and the cost of living in the UK being so unpredictable, we know that not everyone has hundreds of pounds to spare on a new coat, despite us needing to keep warm. The Trespass Clea Waterproof Jacket comes in at just under £50 (depending on size), which we feel is excellent value for money based on its credentials.
What coats are in fashion for winter 2024/2024?
From a fashion perspective, we love the North Face Arctic Parka, which offers the ideal combination of practicality and style. That said, not everyone will be willing to shed out such a significant price tag, hence why the Seasalt Janelle pips it to the top spot.
How we chose the best winter coats for women
First up, we sought out the trusted opinions of Mumsnet users to get their feedback on their favourite winter coats, as well as the coats that they rate, recommend and personally own, to find out which jackets have performed well and really stood the test of time.
Then, to bring you our definitive list of the best winter coats for women, we thoroughly investigated genuine, in-depth customer reviews on retailer sites such as Amazon and John Lewis to get wider consumer experiences regarding the products on our shortlist.
About the author
Lucy Cotterill is a mum of two and a Content Writer at Mumsnet, specialising in baby/child and lifestyle product reviews and round-ups. Having written product reviews on her own blog Real Mum Reviews since 2012, Lucy loves to research and explore the pros and cons of products, scrutinising reviews and consumer feedback to help people make confident purchases.
When it comes to winter coats, Lucy may have bought one of the coats on this list in four different colours - falling in love with the black before picking up the grey, blue and tan in the sale. Did she need them all? Of course not. But can she justify it on a cost-per-wear basis - for sure.
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