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If you’re a little bored with all the synthetic materials that go into your average winter jacket, consider giving a wool coat a try. Sure, it’s not going to be ideal in a freezing rainstorm, but for day to day wear, they’re a good-looking, eye-catching alternative to the endless sea of black puffers. These are our picks for the best wool coats out there. Trench coat
“Wool coats are quite possibly one of the most long lived pieces in your wardrobe,” says Charles Fratto, style director for ILOE Studios. “They get their wear for just about one, maybe one and a half seasons, and by properly maintaining it after each cycle you can ensure many years of stylish warmth.”
“You want to think about your own personal style preferences and needs for a wool coat,” says Dimitry Loiseau, founder and chief editor of REGARD magazine. “There are so many style options, fittings, lengths, and colors available. You can do fitted or oversized, long or short. There is also a range of thickness and patterns available to you!” Consider your other seasonal accessories you may pair with your coat, like your best winter boots that you’ll be wearing frequently.
“Double or single breasted are also different options, based on your preferences and where you plan to wear the coat,” adds Loiseau. “Double breasted works great for a work or more fancy setting. Single breasted is great for going out to dinner or a night out with friends.”
Anyone looking for a warm, stylish wool coat without spending a fortune would do well to give Old Navy a try, particularly this thigh-length, relaxed fit coat with notched lapels and three-button cuffs. “Old Navy has really elevated their style game,” says Fratto, “And they continue to do so with this affordable coat, making it a great option.”
A relatively inexpensive winter coat with some great color options.
Long coats almost always look great, and a wool one will look even better. Fratto recommends this longer option from Banana Republic, which is fully lined and features contrasting piping accents and interior and exterior pockets. “With a long coat that isn’t too long, Banana Republic offers a coat that adds that extra bit of length without disrupting the overall silhouette,” he says. It’s a classic choice that complements other timeless basics like Chelsea boots and well-cut dress pants yet also elevates more casual looks.
A stylish, knee-length wool coat in three classic colors.
For a wool coat you’ll want to throw on every time you leave the house, Loiseau recommends this chunky trucker jacket from Pendleton, saying, “I love this one for an everyday street look.” Made from an Australian wool blend and featuring a water-resistant membrane and sealed sleeves, it’s the rare wool coat that’ll still be good when it’s drizzling outside.
A stylish coat that works well for everyday wear, even in wetter weather.
If you’re looking for something on the stylishly long side, Loiseau suggests checking out the Oversized wool mix coat from Asos Design. “I love the oversized fit of this one, and that it comes in multiple color options,” he enthuses. And while it’s a wool blend, rather than 100% wool, this is at least reflected in the cheaper-than-average price.
A beautifully oversized wool blend coat that looks much more expensive than it is.
You know what they say—classics are classic for a reason. This camel coat has all the features you’d expect from an old school overcoat, including notched lapels, four-button cuffs, and an elegant, knee-length design. “It has a classic overall look,” says Loiseau. “It's also clean and well fitted.” Whether you’re wearing it with a dress shirt or a sweater, it’s going to look great.
An expensive but lovely coat, successfully capturing the look of classic overcoats.
A good peacoat lends an air of sophistication to just about any outfit, whether you’re in chinos or jeans, and this beautiful, classic-looking option from Highland Duds is no exception. Made from a wool-polyester blend, it’s knee-length, fully lined, and features epaulettes and an elegant double-breasted design. It’s also gorgeously soft and comfortable.
An elegant, warm, and sophisticated peacoat for staying stylish despite the weather.
Plaid is always going to be a good look for people wanting their coats to stand out, and this offering from Scotch & Soda is certainly a coat you’ll notice. “I love the plaid look here,” says Loiseau. “It's not too much, but unique enough, with a classic overall look.” Double breasted and with a classy, knee-length design, it’s just a stunning piece of outerwear.
An eye-catching, beautifully constructed, wool-blend topcoat.
One issue you might find with wool coats is that the vast majority come in, at best, very neutral or traditional colors. For something with more of a pop, Loiseau advises giving this jacket from Filson a try. “I love this one if you’re looking for a shorter length,” he says. “It’s also wonderful that it comes in a few color options, and it’s perfect if you’re planning to be active.” Shopping tip: Filson also made our lists for the best flannel shirts, best winter jackets and coats for men, and the best backpacks for college (and beyond).
An active-friendly, 100% wool jacket with some lovely color options.
There’s admittedly very little wool in this entry—only 3%, in fact—but it’s such a stunning coat that we couldn’t resist including it anyway (remember, technically correct is the best kind of correct!) An oversized coat with notched lapels and, of course, a removable belt, it’s perfect for a dramatic, yet elegant look. “Love the fit, love the belt detail!” says Loiseau, simply.
An exceptionally attractive coat that looks good with or without the belt.
Recommended by Loiseau, who calls it, “A beautiful coat with amazing detail,” this is one for when you feel like spending a little (or a lot) extra. Featuring notched lapels, side welt pockets, long sleeves, and a strokebly soft finish, it’s a classic-looking herringbone wool coat with enough of a modern, oversize shape to feel current.
If you have the cash to spare, this is a meticulously-designed coat, perfectly updating a classic style.
All of our selections were made through a mix of personal experience and consultation with our two style experts, Charles Fratto and Dimitry Loiseau. We also scoured customer reviews to make sure that the vast majority of people who bought these coats were happy with their purchases.
“I recommend hand washing a wool coat,” says Loiseau. “Before you start this step it's important to use a clothes brush to brush away any dirt and other debris on the coat. You can then use a wool wash diluted in water to treat any stains. Let that sit a few minutes and then proceed to hand wash the coat with lukewarm water. You can do this by soaking the coat, then moving the fabric around with your hands to remove dirt. This will help protect it from any damage or shrinking a washing machine may inflict. Do not rub or twist the coat, and be sure to let it air dry!”
“Steamers are definitely the best route if you want to get rid of a few wrinkles here and there,” advises Fratto. “Make sure to not spill any water on the coat, just a gentle steam setting should do the trick. Avoid ironing if possible–your coat might be a wool/polyester blend and if your iron setting is too high it might mar the fabric.”
“Absolutely!” says Fratto. “Wool truly is a wonder fiber–it’s insulating, water resistant, antimicrobial, and breathes naturally. It’s also sustainable and when taken care of, can last for literal decades.”
“Yes–they’re a cold weather staple and always so chic and elegant,” says Loiseau. “They’re durable and breathable and immediately elevate your look while being functional by providing you warmth in cooler temps. The only factor you have to consider is the effort and care that goes into taking care of wool coats.”
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