A chic winter wardrobe might seem like it costs more than a summer one (hey, you have to wear more clothing when it's cold), but it's also easier to look expensive in winter than in any other season. The reason? Outerwear. No matter what you're wearing, throw a nice coat on over it and voilà, your outfit looks 10 times more expensive. But not just any coat will do. We always make an effort to shop for expensive-looking outerwear that's not going to blow our budget for the season in one fell swoop. If that's your MO for winter as well, we're here to help.
Us editors, each basically shopping experts in our own right, named our favorite affordable coats in an effort to inspire your next outerwear purchase. Each of these options looks truly expensive and will, in turn, make your entire outfit look expensive. Keep scrolling to shop our picks, all of which will keep you warm and make you look more stylish this winter.
Anna LaPlaca, Assistant Editor
@anna__laplaca)
"The faux-fur trim on the collar and cuffs make this coat feel so luxurious and special, as if it were a rare vintage find from the '70s."
"I have a theory that a biker jacket makes any outfit look infinitely cooler, so I'm putting it to the test with this shearling-lined version. I have my eye on the ecru color, which I can already imagine will go so well with winter neutrals."
Lauren Eggertsen, Editor
"Every season I pretty much wear my camel coats to death. In other words, it is definitely time for a new one. This affordable slouchy version from Topshop has that expensive-looking color I always hunt for with just the right length."
"I am really into leather jackets that aren't motorcycle jackets. This big blazer-coat hybrid is what I plan on wearing all season long."
Bobby Schuessler, Market Editor
"I always hit up ASOS when I want a statement coat that looks expensive. This plaid silhouette is sophisticated and so versatile."
"The blush-colored accent on the sleeve makes this gorgeous camel coat feel even more special."
Nicole Akhtarzad, Market Editor
"I love the blanket-like quality of this checked, fringed coat. It feels trendy and timeless at once."
"I love an all-black outfit, and the idea of styling this long, oversize teddy coat with black jeans and ankle boots every day this winter is really appealing."
Kristen Nichols, Managing Editor
"I already own a cropped faux-fur coat, but this winter, I would like to invest in one with longer proportions. Since chocolate brown is a color on the rise, this one from Mango is topping my must-buy list."
"A long leather trench is the perfect option for those of us who live in warmer climates (like L.A. where I'm based) where a heavy winter coat is rarely needed."
Judith Jones, Market Editor
"This is my favorite coat purchase of the fall season so far. I'm still floored at how incredibly luxurious this super-soft suede trench coat feels. While it's definitely on the more lightweight side (too thin for freezing winter temps), it's absolutely perfect for the pleasant autumn season. The hue is gorgeous—a rich khaki brown that will go with everything in your closet."
"I'm seriously in love with Zara's cape coat. It has major Celine vibes without the hefty price tag. Plus, it looks super posh, expensive, and dramatic."
Erin Fitzpatrick, Senior News Editor
"Yes, I'm aware this is more of a jacket than a coat, but I'm currently sweating it out in 80-degree heat along with the rest of Southern California. Plus, this is roomy enough to layer a super-chunky warm sweater underneath. House of Sunny is my favorite British brand for on-trend, affordable pieces, and this quilted jacket is at the top of my list."
"I'm really into tweed right now (see proof here), and this Mango coat is my next victim. I'll be styling it with a white turtleneck and wide-leg jeans."
Allyson Payer, Editor
"This coat literally goes with everything in my closet, so thanks to that, how cozy it looks, and the under-$200, I'd buy it in a second."
"This cool trench is exactly what I want to be wearing on a rainy winter day. The checked collar is such a good touch."
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