Now that we are fully entrenched in the depths of winter, our autumn outerwear collection simply doesn't cut it. Much as it pains us to admit, our beloved oversized blazers and lightweight trenches need to be retired in favour of pieces that are a little more heavy-duty and won't see us shivering as soon as we've left the house. And with the blizzard that's currently rattling the city, warmth is top priority when searching for your new outerwear hero.
Nothing compares to a stylish coat in its ability to elevate an outfit - indispensable either when what lies beneath is slightly lacking, or if you want to dial up your party 'fit for your big entrance. It may be the last addition to your ensemble before heading out the door, but your outerwear oughtn't be an afterthought.
Opting for a designer piece, if you have the budget, is your key to acing winter. Rather than hitting up the high street year-in and year-out for a new, on-trend option, investing in a beautifully crafted outerwear staple is a sustainable choice that your future self will thank you for.
Thankfully, there are plenty of 2026-approved trends to consider when opting for a designer stunner. Mob Wife-inspired silhouettes reigned supreme on the SS26 runways, nodding to a high-octane, vintage-inspired glamour that leaned into 1980s dress codes. Dolce & Gabbana, Michael Kors, Chloé, Marine Serre, Khaite, Jil Sander, Gabriela Hearst, Etro, Nina Ricci, Roberto Cavalli, Miu Miu Rabanne, Schiaparelli, Ottolinger, Prada and, of course, Fendi, were a modest few to champion the divisive texture.
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© ImaxtreeLikewise, funnel neck outerwear was a mainstay on the runways, characterised by a chin-skimming, wrapped neckline with a utilitarian, double-breasted silhouette. Stella McCartney reimagined the silhouette as a crisp white trench, while Chloé coolly added its hallmark bohemian spin, complete with balloon sleeves and earth tones. Proenza Schouler, KNWLS and Gucci playfully stretched the style's silhouette, spanning bomber jackets, ankle-grazers, capes and everything in between.
So, let the fun begin. We've rounded up the best designer coats to see you though not only this season, but many to come.
Best designer coats for winter 2026:
Wool Coat
Acne Studios
Fresh off the runway, Acne Studios' caramel-toned wool coat is one for the extroverts. Gloriously exaggerated shoulders with a rounded silhouette are met with a teddy-bear textured exterior to create a statement look to cherish for years to come.
Round Wool Coat
Alaïa
Inject your all-black winter archive with a hefty dose of print this season. Alaïa's deliciously slouchy yet elegant piece features striking tiger stripes set against a warming tan hue. Complete with jacquard detailing, a mid calf length, welt pockets and raglan sleeves.
Shearling-Lined Quilted Shell Coat
Chloé
Chloé wants you to think pink for winter. This vintage-inspired piece from the beloved house's AW25 runway show delivers a rose-tinted quilted shell in a longline cut that's trimmed with plush, contrasting shearling to create a must-have piece this season. One topping our winter wish lists.
Ezra Coat
RÓHE
You truly can't go wrong with RÓHE’s Ezra Coat. Cut from plush wool with a dark grey exterior, this slouchy yet sophisticated layer pays homage to Italian craftsmanship with its meticulous design that features wide lapels and a double-breasted front.
Compact Wool Cashmere Coat
Hailing from Gucci's AW25 collection, one of our favourite offerings from the powerhouse brand, this violet delight is all one needs to embrace dopamine dressing this winter. Button yours up over a sleek midi skirt for a fun yet curated aesthetic.
Dark Grey Long Coat
The Attico
Although the brand is known for its generous use of zesty colour and plumes of feathers, The Attico does clean-cut tailoring really well. For those searching for a timeless piece that packs a punch, look to the brand's sharp longline coat featuring a dark grey mix wool drill and double-breasted detailing.
Frosted Fauna Black and White Wool Coat
Fendi
Truth be told, I'd give my second kidney for this coat. Inspired by an archive coat by Silvia Venturini Fendi, this printed show-stopper boasts a subtly flared silhouette, a shirt collar and welt pockets - married with a long-haired wool construction showcasing an exclusive Frosted Fauna motif printed all over.
Mixed Fur Coat
Etro
Another jewel that was born on the AW25 runway, this fluffy Etro dream is pure fashion fantasy. A chocolate box of warm hues is elevated by a pronounced silhouette and a bohemian paisley lining that leans into 70s nostalgia.
Fleece-Lined Checked Blouson Jacket
Miu Miu
Boasting a print spotted on the likes of Millie Bobby Brown and Ambika Mod, Miu Miu's checkered coat is an ode to the eclectic style of the 1970s. An animated checked wool pattern with a soft fleeced texture makes for a joyous designer pick for when spirits need lifting.
How we chose the pieces:
- Style: Naturally, a super flattering coat silhouette is essential. When combing through the internet's top fashion sites for the best styles, we made sure that each of our picks were either bang on trend for 2026 or had a certain classic appeal for maximum wearability. We've delivered on scope - from buttery faux furs to glossy A-line pieces, these are the pieces we're lusting after this winter.
- Brand: Investment dressing might feel like a drag, but pieces that you will wear often deserve to be made to last. We can't stress this enough – if you're wearing a select few coats on rotation, or even if you wear the same one pretty much on the daily, quality is key. Often, designer coats are head and shoulders above their high street counterparts in terms of fabric and construction. All our picks are by designer labels, ranging from Acne to Gucci.
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page
