Statement Moment

So often, winter outerwear’s sole mission is to create a protective layer between your outfit and the blustery cold. And what’s more, it’s usually in dark, solid shades, like black, brown, and navy blue. Not anymore, though: “Boring black puffers are out, statement coats are in,” says NYC-based fashion stylist Audree Kate López. “We are seeing colorful [silhouettes], animal print, loud prints and print mixes, fur trims, feathers, embellishments, and embroidery—it’s a maximalist fever dream.”

The way López sees it, statement and embellished coats breathe life back into the often bleak season. “Getting dressed for winter can sometimes feel dreary and drab because it’s dark outside, you’re piling on layers, and most of the clothing options are darker or neutral,” she says. “I’ve found joy in doing the absolute opposite and finishing off my look with a fun coat.”

The best part about statement coats? They make you look put-together, even if you run out of the house half-dressed for the day. “It’s a statement in itself, and no matter what you’re wearing underneath—athleisure to walk your dog or the same jeans and black sweater for multiple days in a row—you will look and feel put together, fashion forward, and I guarantee you’ll receive compliments,” López tells us.

Scarf Included

Scarves are not a requirement this winter, as some of the top trending coats have that functionality built in. “The coat with the attached scarf has hit mainstream this fall,” López says. “The Toteme coat with the attached scarf was one of the first, and this season, we’re seeing a lot of similar wool coats with attached scarf detailing. I love the two-in-one option, so you always have a matching scarf and a monochromatic, sleek look.”

Standout Collars

One of the biggest statements we’re currently seeing in winter outerwear is the addition of a cool, often-contrasting collar, whether that’s in texture, tone, or silhouette. “Sophisticated collars, draped scarves, double lapels… there’s neck interest that elevates the classic overcoat,” says Nordstrom fashion director Linda Cui Zhang. For one, the oversized shearling and faux fur collars popping up all over the market are giving Penny Lane in the best way.

Animal Print Outerwear

It’s no secret that we’re huge fans of leopard print, but this season (and this year, really), López says all animal print outerwear is fair game. “In my opinion, animal print will always be on trend, but this year we have seen it really take to the forefront,” she tells us. “It’s not only leopard and cheetah: We’re seeing zebra, cow, snake, and dalmatian prints in outerwear.”

For winter, cozy, fluffy fabrics tend to be most popular, but if you prefer sportier silhouettes, printed puffers work, too. If it’s not super cold, opting for a less-insulated wool, suede, or leather take on the print is a suitable option.

Shearling and Fur Textures

Speaking of warm, fluffy coats, Zhang and López agree that shearling and furs are setting the stage for a seriously stylish winter season. “Extraordinary textures make coats extra-covetable this season,” Zhang explains. “From soft shearlings to cozy faux, there’s a standout style for every personality.”

Another perk of these silhouettes? They’re remarkably warm, even if they’re faux. “They’re fun, a powerful statement, and after years of living in New York City, they’re warmer than some traditional puffer coats I’ve worn,” López reveals. “This year, the trend has taken a dramatic step, with bigger, longer furs and shearling, feather details, and color and prints.”

Suede Silhouettes

Suede is one of those materials that’s surprisingly warm, yet notably thinner than your average winter coat. “Suede is the new It material this season,” López says. “The past few years have been about leather, but last year we started seeing a rise in suede outerwear, [as well as an] increase in brown outerwear, accessories, and tones throughout fashion.”

Longline Wool Coats

Another textile that can be thinner and often dressier in appearance, while still offering satisfying warmth, is wool. “The long wool coat isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, but what we are seeing this winter is sharper tailoring, dramatic shoulders, oversized lapels, funky buttons and closures, and colors,” López shares.

Sporty Silhouettes

Basic black puffer jackets might be a constant fixture, but elevated, insulated sport silhouettes are having a moment. “Sweet modern takes on performance puffers and fleeces combine fashion and function for a sporty sensibility,” Zhang says. Some of our favorite takes on this trend include head-turning printed puffers, cowl-collar fleeces, and chic belted silhouettes that scream “après-ski.”

Bomber Jackets

Meanwhile, the ’70s-inspired bomber jacket is appearing on just about every corner as an everyday staple for winter 2025-26. “The bomber plays into the oversized, androgynous trend, but the cropped silhouette isn’t overpowering,” López says, noting that it replaces the leather moto jacket of years past.