Clementina Jackson
I used to hate puffer jackets. Misguidedly, I thought they were the sartorial way of saying, “I can't be bothered”. But I have come to see the errors of my ways. In France, we have a proverb: “Il n'y a que les imbéciles qui ne changent pas d'avis”, which means (in a not-so-polite way) that only the narrow-minded never change their minds.
And so I've come to love puffer jackets so much that I now wear almost no other winter coats, especially when I'm out and about with my daughter and I want to be comfortable as well as stylish. Make no mistake, puffer styles are nothing if not chic. Thanks to designers such as Max Mara, Nanushka, Givenchy and Soft Goat, and high street stores like Arket, H&M and Uniqlo, padded jackets have been given a serious upgrade of late.
When it comes to which styles to shop for this season, the quiet luxury trend withstands—think rich hues of burgundy, brown and olive, and no sign of a logo. Unless, of course, you're after the bold and branded... In which case, a glossy Moncler or Prada with instantly recognisable hardware stand strong as fan-favourites.
Styling-wise, the trend is much easier to wear than you think. The street style set are big fans of dressing up a puffer with a knitted dress and chunky biker boots, or with jeans and riding boots for an equestrian edge.
Below, a curated edit of the very best puffer jackets to invest in this season, that are sure to keep you cosy and looking effortlessly chic.
The Best Puffer Jackets to Shop
Mango is one of our go-to high street brands for outerwear that feels elevated. This padded coat in chocolate brown with faux fur trim will make even dressed-down moments feel stylish.
Plenty of puffer coats come complete with feather and down filling, although not everyone is a fan of animal-based materials. Offering somewhat of a middle ground, Arket sources its down from pre-existing fashion finds, reducing the need for new feathers—which just makes this stylish puffer all the more alluring.
Burgundy shades are particularly popular this season and this Massimo Dutti find is right on trend. It's also water-repellent and comes with a hood, making it great in all winter weather.
With its oversized silhouette and faux-fur-trimmed collar—that can be worn open or as a chic funnel-neck—H&M's puffer feels both classic and modern at the same time, and it's a steal at less than £50.
The White Company knows polished outerwear. This puffer in a soft shade of stone is a case in point.
Made from 100% virgin wool, this padded coat from Brunello Cucinelli is one of the most luxurious options on the market—and incredibly warm.
There is a reason why Arket brings back this padded down coat every winter. It's a no brainer for style and price.
For a truly luxurious touch, turn your attention to this wool and cashmere-blend puffer from Soft Goat, that's soft and cosy as can be.
Comfort meets style in this pillowy soft puffer jacket. It features an added cinch waist strap for a personalised fit and lined zip-up hand pockets for extra warmth.
Max Mara are well-versed experts when it comes to outerwear and this water-repellent shell puffer is excellent proof of why. It's simple yet seriously sleek.
If you're worried about being swamped by an oversized padded coat, then why not try a belted style? This Reiss design in rich chocolate-brown is an excellent choice.
This alpaca-trim Jil Sander puffer jacket is for those truly channeling a retro ski-chic look, made all the more striking thanks to its oversized shape and light
Want the warmth of a puffer without the bulk? This slimline style is a little more fitted thanks to the peplum-style drawstring waist and lighter quilting.
Switch up an outerwear wardrobe dominated by blacks and blues by opting for this a warmer shade of moss green. It's discounted right now, too.
This Nanushka puffer is a fashion insider-favourite for a reason. Coated in vegan leather, lined in satin, with an oversized fit and featuring a dramatic stand-up collar, it cuts a seriously stylish silhouette.
Prada's classic puffer coats instantly elevate even the most casual of outfits.
Moncler's high-gloss puffer jackets are instantly recognisable, and the brand's new grape and light-pink design especially so. The detachable hood provides an extra layer of warmth when needed, while the feathers-and-down filling makes for optimal cosy vibes. Great for the slopes and city alike.
Print lovers, rejoice! You can rock leopard in winter too, all while staying warm and making a serious statement.
Without the classic Michelin Man–style quilting, this Givenchy jacket isn’t a traditional puffer—but it is padded, so it earns its place in this edit. With an elasticated waist and a double collar, this style is all about creating shape.
