Want to invest in something comfortable and stylish and that will keep you warm? Shop our edit of the best parka jackets out there...
You know that tricky period where the winter chill has almost lifted but the lighter spring days aren't quite frequent enough? It can cause havoc with our wardrobes, but as ever, here at Marie Claire HQ we've set out to find the perfect wardrobe solution. And this season, it comes in the form of a utilitarian cover-up.
From the high street to designer collections, parka jackets are fast filling rails with more directional styles than ever.
Sure, the classic khaki parka is still a staple, but this season pastel pink, sunshine yellow and chic navy all offer the chance to switch things up. Drawstrings and belts feature to nip in waists for those who like a coat with structure, while flowing, oversized cuts are ruling the casual end.
Not only that, a good parka is the coolest, and cosiest, way to nail trans-seasonal dressing.
With the right styling you can dress up a navy or khaki parka jacket for cocktail hour with boots and a LBD (a favourite on the Saint Laurent runway), or keep it casual with jeans, white trainers and a statement bag.
Either way, the humble parka is designed for versatility, and whatever the weather, there's a style for you.
We've found waterproof yet lightweight options, cropped parkas, shearling-linings and faux fur hoods, and even linen blends that’ll see you through an unpredictable British summer.
So, if you're looking for something stylish and comfortable, look no further than the hard-working, endlessly transformative parka jacket.
Whatever your sartorial preference and budget, we're convinced you'll find your dream coat in our edit below. Whether it’s Topshop’s waxed parka, perfect for spring walks and festival season alike, Mango’s bright yellow quilted crop, or Saint Laurent’s utilitarian linen jacket, keep scrolling to meet your perfect match.
You’re just one click away from parka jacket heaven.
Shop the best parka jackets of 2018
A fresh twist on the classic khaki parka, the quilted body will keep you extra cosy as well as dry in a downpour.
As close as stylish coats get to a sleeping bag? Yep, this is one parka you can snuggle up in without sacrificing your fashion credentials.
Big pockets, a fluffy hood to keep your ears warm, plus a drawstring waist to add a little structure. What's not to love?
Team this with denim and a chunky knit to saunter your way into spring.
The cotton and linen blend makes this utilitarian coat the perfect spring purchase. It'll keep you warm and dry, while nailing utilitarian chic.
If khaki isn't your jam, try this pastel pink mac-turned-parka from Zara.
We can see this jacket seeing you through the winter/spring transition and well beyond festival season, too.
Collarless styles are ideal for throwing on over breton tops for the weekend, and Alexander Wang has it covered with this version.
A blast of sunshine yellow is exactly what your wardrobe needs right now. If large coats tend to swamp you, this quilted crop is the perfect fix.
Perfect for unpredictable weather, this lightweight parka comes with drawstrings to cinch the waist, plus a detachable hood to fend off showers.
Vero Moda's nude parka is a smart choice for transitioning between the seasons. Wear with monochrome tailoring on the commute.
Two coats in one, this navy parka flips inside out to become nautical stripes complete with a narrow waist belt.
This is the parka that goes with everything, and it's fully lined with soft faux fur too.
A weekend wardrobe staple, this lightweight parka packs style kudos with the kind of practicality that'll save you from day trip downpours.
Perfect for rainy spring days, simply throw it over anything from denim to jumpsuits and you're good to go.
The ultimate parka brand, Mr and Mrs Italy jackets are the ones we've always wanted, but are still saving for.