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”, meaning (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 Prada, MaxMara, MiuMiu and Moncler, and high street stores like ARKET and Uniqlo, padded jackets have been given a luxe upgrade.
When it comes to which styles to shop for this season, the quiet luxury trend withstands. Norma Kamali’s sleeping bag coat and Varley's understated belted style are all perfect examples of this, however, there are plenty of more maximalist styles as well. I've seen bold prints at Ganni and more statement quilted coat iterations, too.
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 leggings and riding boots. Shop my edit of designer and affordable puffer jackets available to buy now.
BEST PUFFER JACKETS
This high street puffer coat is so good it has to be restocked multiple times throughout the year.
Massimo Dutti is my go-to for investment outwear in the high street.
Staying warm in winter doesn't mean you have to ditch prints. This striped padded coat from Free People is at the top of our wishlist.
I love a puffer with a nipped in waist. They're perfect for sculpting your silhouette or will add shape where needed.
If you love wearing colour and prints, finding a winter puffer can be tricky. Thankfully Ganni has created this leopard print beauty.
Puffer jackets don't have to look casual. Layer this coast over a tonal knitted dress for a look that is smart yet warm.
A classic black puffer coat for under £200 - whats not to love?
Proof a winter wardrobe doesn't mean ditching colour. This puffer coat will take you from the city to the slopes in style.
This cropped style is the perfect shade of beige.
Prada's classic nylon puffer jackets never go out of style.
This trench/puffer hybrid adds a touch of polish to this otherwise sporty style.
Textured knitted puffer jackets add an extra layer of cosiness when its cold.
This timeless style sells out each season - be quick.
Jumbo pockets and XL quilting make this style one of our favourites.
Chocolate brown may be the colour of the season but its equally timeless in equal measure.
Winter whites require a little more care but are super chic.
Add this cropped style to your gym look.
Varley's Ana padded coat creates a more classic silhouette without compromising on warmth.
Puffer jackets aren't always super sporty. MaxMara make some of the chicest money can buy that will stand the test of time.
If you're looking for something a little smarter, look for clean lines and minimal details.
Enjoy early morning walks to the pilates studio in this longline puffer.
The longline fluid shape of Norma Kamali's sleeping bag coat make it super flattering.
No one beats Uniqlo for ultra lightweight warmth.
Pangaia is a Certified B Corporation that uses recyclable fabrics.
Moncler coats are an investment but are the crème de la crème of down jackets.
The v-neck shape and optional belt give this functional style a more tailored feel.
