It is feeling more autumnal than ever and with the rain lashing down, it's a reminder to do one thing - sort your autumn wardrobe out.
That includes a great, stylish yet waterproof raincoat. In fact, it's a must for your autumn fashion repertoire. The 2026 trend is to embrace utility styles, think funnel necks with hidden hoods, barn jackets with a rain cover addition and windbreakers that double as waterproof pieces too.
A great raincoat is one of those wardrobe items that you don't think about that much - until you find the one and wonder how you ever lived without it. Stylish and raincoats are two words that don't often go together, but when those winter showers happen, you want to be stylishly prepared.
I'm here to prove that there is such a thing as a stylish raincoat or rain jacket, and in this fickle weather season, you'll need a waterproof jacket on hand. Just in case.
- Black raincoat editor's pick: Jaeger Longline Raincoat, £175 / SHOP US
- The red raincoat: Damson Madder Liu Burgundy Raincoat, £135 / $280
- Funnel neck raincoat editor's pick: Nobody's Child Windbreaker Zip Jacket, £139 / $250
- Packable raincoat editor's pick: Singin' In The Rain Packable Raincoat, £188 /
- Animal print raincoat editor's pick: Boden Longline Raincoat, £169 /
Practical? Yes, whether it be for a damp school run or a rainy commute, a badly timed dog walk or drizzle errand run. There's no better time than now to invest in a raincoat that keeps you warm, dry and still stylish. You don't want to dampen the mood by rocking up with a rain ruined suede jacket or a wool coat that's so wet its adding on extra pounds. From the high street raincoats your budget will thank you for to the street style favourites, I've got you covered with an edit of the best raincoats for women.
A classic raincoat or rain jacket is a true necessity during unpredictable weather, and the ones I've rounded up are practical and look great. Remember, they don't need to cost a fortune and you can find plenty of cute raincoats for under £30 or turn to the pros like Rains who are always in vogue with their pretty yet practical rain jackets.
© GettyWhat's the difference between a 'waterproof' raincoat and 'water resistant' raincoat?
When shopping for a rain coat, you might want to take note of the fashion terms so you know what you're shopping (or Googling!) for. It a rain coat or rain jacket is 'waterproof', it means it is impenetrable by water – and might even have special details like sealed seams to keep water out. In basic terms, it's designed to withstand extremely wet weather and keep you dry even in a major downpour.
If the garment is described as 'water resistant' or 'water repellent', it is still rainy-weather worthy, but to a lesser degree. Water resistant fabrics offer the lowest level of protection, and will keep you dry in light rain, while water-repellent fabrics offer a slightly higher degree of protection from the rain.
Water-repellent raincoats and rain jackets resist water absorption, so aren't easily penetrated by pesky raindrops but don't guarantee the same level of dryness as waterproof.
It's also handy to know the difference between a raincoat and a rain jacket. A rain jacket typically is waist-length waterproof, water-resistant or water repellent outerwear, while a raincoat is longer, usually hip-length, knee-length or calf-length.
Can you wash a waterproof jacket?
Yes, you can wash a waterproof jacket - but always, always check the label. Most can be washed on a gentle cycle at a low temperature, ideally 30C. If you can, use a specialist liquid detergent designed to keep the 'waterproof' coating in tact. Usual laundry products can sometimes leave a residue, causing the waterproof elements to become less effective.
How I chose the best raincoats for women
Now that you know a bit more about raincoats and jackets, I’ve scoured the high street for the best women's looks that are in stock. Here’s how I chose them:
- Price: There’s a raincoat to suit every budget - whether you want an investment piece that will last you years, or a bargain piece that still does the job without breaking the bank. We selected raincoats at both ends of the scale, so there’s something for everyone.
- Style: We looked for the most stylish raincoats for women that we could find. Just because the weather is horrid doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on style!
- Length: We recognise that some shoppers want a long raincoat, others want something shorter. We catered for both.
- Colour: From bright shades to muted tones, and classic yellow, black and navy blue - we wanted raincoats to suit all tastes to feature in this roundup.
- Reviews and trusted brands: We included raincoats from our list of trusted brands with solid reputations - Marks & Spencer, Boden, and more. Where it wasn’t possible to test the coats ourselves we only selected waterproof coats that had a large volume of positive reviews from trusted shoppers.
Keep scrolling for a list of our favourite picks...
Shop the best waterproof jackets and raincoats for women
1/10
JAEGER Relaxed Waterproof Rain Jacket
© M&SEditor's note:
"A classic black raincoat will go with every outfit and this is a timeless, chic style. The water-repellent finish will keep you dry, with a full coverage hood and drawstring detailing."
2/10
FatFace Inverness Sand Raincoat
© FatFaceEditor's note:
"This raincoat is perfect for everything: school runs, seaside strolls, office days, mooching around weekend markets, the list goes on. The longline shape gives great coverage, while the adjustable hood protects your face from drizzle too."
3/10
Damson Madder Liu Shower Resistant Raincoat
© Damson MadderEditor's note:
"This stunning raincoat sold out in tartan last year, and it's back for 2026 in the colour of the season - read. It's shower resistant, it's warm and it's oh so cool. I bought it and have non-stop compliments when I wear it."
4/10
Nobody's Child Funnel Neck Raincoat
© Nobody's ChildEditor's note:
"If you’re on the hunt for a funnel neck raincoat then this is the nicest one I’ve seen by far. It’s fully waterproof, so it’ll keep you dry in the heaviest of downpours."
5/10
Singin' In The Rain Packable Waterproof Pullover
© Free PeopleEditor's note:
"If it's a colourful raincoat your heart desires, head to Free People for this simple yet chic raincoat. It's unlined, so won't be too sweaty and has a drawstring hood and can be packed away into a handy carry bag."
6/10
Boden Longline Raincoat
© BodenEditor's note:
"The one for the animal print lovers, this cow print raincoat is so cool, you'll stand out for all the right reasons."
7/10
Scamp & Dude Raincoat
© Scamp & DudeEditor's note:
"Scamp & Dude is known for their pops of neon and I love the coral trim on this khaki raincoat, sure to brighten up even the most dull of days. It's practical too, with a fully waterproof finish, adjustable cuffs (so you can really keep your hands dry) and a hood with drawcords."
8/10
Rains Long Jacket
© RainsEditor's note:
"Rains is a brand you can definitely trust if you’re in the market for a new raincoat. They’re known for their sleek Scandi-inspired designs, clean lines, neutral colours and modern silhouettes - and great quality, fully waterproof coats, of course! Black raincoats are always in high demand, so this unisex design is out top pick. It features a drawstring hood, side pockets and adjustable hoods. Plus there are welded seams for extra protection against moisture."
9/10
New Look Fleece Hooded Raincoat
© NEW LOOKEditor's note:
"This bridges the gap between raincoat and fleece, as it has a super cosy and snuggly fleece lining to keep you warm and dry. The longer length is great too for keeping you super covered."
10/10
Barbour Connie Prince of Wales Check Raincoat
© John LewisEditor's note:
"A smart raincoat for the office can be tricky, but this Barbour checked waterproof jacket will keep you stylish on the commute."
