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The 22 Best Fall Jackets to Stay Warm and Stylish This Season

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<p>InStyle / David Hattan</p>

InStyle / David Hattan

Like a watch that decorates the wrist, a good jacket is the finishing touch to any outfit, especially when crisp fall weather makes an appearance. Whether you're looking for a wool coat to keep you snug as temps dip, a puffer to dress up some joggers, or a lightweight option for easy layering, there's always an occasion to sport a jacket this season. The thing is, the market is overflowing with options, which can make just about anyone's head spin.

For many, jackets are an investment piece — but how do you know you've landed on a winner? When shopping for a fall jacket, Holly Katz, fashion stylist and host of Fashion Crimes Podcast, recommends considering the Cost Per Wear (or CPW) above any other deciding factor, including fabric. After all, buying a jacket that you know you'll get the most use out of (versus something you buy on a whim) is the ultimate goal.

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And when it comes to jackets specifically for the fall, there are almost too many options out there to sift through. But don’t worry, we did all of the hard work! After speaking with stylists and fashion lovers — and testing out loads of jackets for ourselves — we’ve compiled a list of the absolute best fall jackets to rock this season, keeping every style and price point in mind.

Below, find the best fall jackets of the season.

Related: The 12 Best Teddy Jackets for a Fashionably Fuzzy 2023

Best Overall: Madewell Quilted Oversized Bomber Jacket

Buy at Madewell.com



What We Love: This jacket can be styled with pretty much any outfit.

What We Don’t Love: The colors are slightly different than pictured.



This bomber-style jacket from Madewell deserves a spot in your closet. Slightly oversized, this versatile piece was made with layering in mind. “Love a puff style and for under $200, this could literally be the only winter coat you own,” says wardrobe stylist Naomi Zinns. “Style with straight-leg denim, closed-toed leather mule, and your favorite fall sweater or sweater vest.”

Made from recycled nylon, this sustainable jacket has two generous pockets that are large enough to hold your phone yet lay flat so they don’t add bulk. The ribbed cuffs at the sleeves block the wind, which comes in clutch during fluctuating fall weather. This is the type of piece you can keep in your wardrobe for years to come as it will never go out of style. Eyeing the olive shade? Just note that it’s more green than pictured.

Price at time of publish: $188

Size: XXS-4X | Materials: Recycled nylon | Colors: 3

Best Budget: Love, Bonito Elodie Reversible Sherpa Jacket

Buy at Lovebonito.com



What We Love: At just under $80, this jacket is well worth the money as it's reversible.

What We Don’t Love: We wish it came in more colors.



Jackets can be a big financial investment, but they don't always have to be. As is the case with this thoughtfully-designed convertible jacket from Love, Bonito which comes in black and cream. It's lined (so provides plenty of warmth) and costs less than $100 — a steal considering it's reversible and can be styled in a multitude of ways. Wear the plush sherpa side to stay warm at a backyard bonfire, or flip it inside out if it's raining to reap its sturdy, water-repellent functionality. It offers the most bang for your buck since you can wear it two ways, and serves as the ultimate chilly-weather jacket without the bulk. Our only con? We wish it came in a cozy brown or beige shade.

Price at time of publish: $55

Size: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, sherpa | Colors: 2

Best Splurge: MAX MARA Cashmere Pea Coat

Buy at Us.maxmara.com



What We Love: It’s a classic style that you can keep in your closet forever.

What We Don’t Love: The light shade and cashmere makeup make this coat delicate and better saved for special occasions.



If you’re in the market to splurge on a cashmere coat, we think this option from Max Mara is stunning. It’s absolutely an investment piece, but you will have it in your closet for your entire life thanks to its timeless silhouette. Made in a beautiful sand-colored hue, it can be worn atop dresses, suits, pants, and more. A detachable belt lets you alternate between snatching your waist or wearing the coat loose. And since it’s crafted from 100 percent cashmere, it makes for the perfect transitional piece to wear all year long.

“Cashmere anything is a yes for me,” says Wasserbach Moore. “This luxurious cashmere coat is the ultimate indulgence for fall. Cashmere always hits with opulence and warmth, making it an exquisite investment piece that will keep you cozy and stylish throughout the season and beyond. It's a statement of sophistication that every fashion connoisseur deserves to own.”

To no one’s surprise, this coat is dry clean only. Considering the light shade and higher upkeep, this style is better suited for special occasions rather than everyday wear.

Price at time of publish: $5,190

Size: 0-16 | Materials: Cashmere | Colors: 1

Best Lightweight: Dickies Performance Hooded Jacket

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Basspro.com



What We Love: This jacket comes in a range of sizes from XS to 2XL.

What We Don’t Love: It’s not the most stylish jacket out there.



When you want to stay protected from the elements but don't want the weight of a puffer jacket or trench, go for this pick from Dickies. Even though it's light as a feather, it keeps you feeling extra warm thanks to well-thought-out features like a full zipper and drawstring hood. As for how it performs in the rain, the Durable Water Repellent nylon allows raindrops to roll off, making it ideal for breezy walks or drizzly hikes. Not to mention, the back of the jacket is slightly longer than the front (what's known as a drop tail) to further keep you dry. We'd be remiss to leave out the impressive size range, as well as the under-$100 price that makes us want to get one in every color. It’s perhaps not the most stylish jacket on our list, but sometimes function is more important.

Price at time of publish: $80

Size: XS-2XL | Materials: Durable Water Repellent (DWR) nylon | Colors: 3

Best Shacket: Free People Jessica Shirt Jacket

Buy at Freepeople.com



What We Love: The men’s-inspired tailoring is on trend.

What We Don’t Love: It can be too oversized for petite frames.



What do you get when you cross over a shirt and a jacket? A shacket! If you’re on the hunt for a piece to add to your wardrobe come fall, we can’t suggest this shirt jacket from Free People enough. “This shacket is a must-have for fall because it effortlessly combines the comfort of a shirt with the warmth of a jacket,” says Wasserbach Moore. “Its versatile styling options make it a standout choice for transitional weather.”

Made from a wool blend, this vintage-looking piece has a slouchy fit that gives off a lived-in vibe. Plus, the breathability of wool allows you to layer it with all sorts of shirts and sweaters underneath. “Tweed fabric is a classic, so this piece could stand the test of trend time,” adds Wasserbach Moore. Because this silhouette is quite oversized, it may be too overwhelming for petite frames, so we recommend going with the Carve Designs Vineyard Shacket for a more fitted shacket.

Price at time of publish: $168

Size: XS-XL | Materials: Polyamide, poly, and wool | Colors: 1

Best Teddy: Alo Yoga Foxy Sherpa Jacket

Buy at Aloyoga.com



What We Love: The detachable hood is perfect.

What We Don’t Love: If this came in a wider size range, it would be unstoppable.



Alo is one of our favorite fitness apparel brands — from the buttery fabrics to the styles themselves, we love practically everything they come out with. And this teddy is no different. “This jacket is a fashionable statement piece that adds a touch of luxury to your autumn wardrobe,” says stylist Kate Wasserbach Moore, also the founder and creative director of Abel Honor New York.

As a shorter version of the viral, Kendall-Jenner approved teddy coat, this one is a bit more practical. In fact, one of our writers has had this jacket for the last year and has worn it endlessly. From the detachable hood to the furry fabric, it’s perfect to throw on for errands or a cozy date night at the movies. The camel color plays up fall’s earthy tones and the cinched, ribbed hem keeps cold weather at bay. “Every cozy girl needs a sherpa jacket to throw on and run errands with,” says fashion influencer Atiya Mahoney. “The cropped waist will accentuate your curves for a more girly look.” As with a lot of the brand’s pieces, we wish this jacket came in a wider size range (Alo take note!).

Price at time of publish: $198

Size: XS-L | Materials: Plush sherpa | Colors: 3

Best Waterproof: Helly Hansen Women’s Long Belfast Jacket

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Backcountry.com



What We Love: You can stay dry and stylish with this waterproof coat.

What We Don’t Love: An inner pocket would be a nice touch.



If you live in a rainy city, like New York or Seattle, you want a jacket that will actually keep you dry without sacrificing on style. Made from the brand’s signature Helly protection technology, this jacket is waterproof, windproof, and breathable. We tested the jacket in our lab, and despite being doused in water, the jacket rolled every droplet off, and the interior never got wet. With a drawstring hood and waterproof lining around the zippers, this jacket will keep you dry even in the strongest downpour. We also loved how the sleek, long shape kept us feeling chic, and the silhouette is roomy enough to layer sweaters underneath. While the jacket does come with three pockets at the chest and sides, we do wish there was an inner pocket for extra security against the rain. Regardless, we named this jacket the Best Overall from all the raincoats we tested.

Price at time of publish: $160

Size: XS-5XL | Materials: Polyester | Colors: 6

Best Leather: Quince 100% Leather Motorcycle Jacket

Buy at Onequince.com



What We Love: If you're looking for a lightweight leather jacket that's easily layered, this one fits the bill.

What We Don’t Love: The black leather can leave some smudges on lighter tops during the first few wears.



We can’t get over how high quality this motorcycle jacket is. While jackets made from real leather can go upwards of $500, this one is only a third of the cost yet just as well made. Crafted from 100 percent top grain sheep leather from a Leather Working Group-certified tannery, the material is buttery soft yet durable and 100 percent biodegradable. After kindly receiving a sample from the brand, we’ve been wearing this jacket non-stop. It’s fitted yet roomy enough to layer sweaters underneath, and the waist-hitting length suits both our tall and short writers alike.

We’ve worn this jacket to Paris and in addition to helping us fit in with the stylish locals, it was the ideal travel companion thanks to three zipped pockets that kept our valuables safe and handy. In fact, whenever we go out and don’t want to bring a purse to hold our phone and keys, we reach for this jacket.

While you can’t go wrong with the classic black leather, the jacket comes in three other shades fit for fall. We did notice that our black jacket left some smudges on lighter shirts when we first wore it — they did come off in the wash — so break it in with caution.

Price at time of publish: $150

Size: XS-XL | Materials: Leather | Colors: 4

Best Faux Leather: BLANKNYC Faux Leather Crop Moto Jacket

Buy at Nordstrom.com



What We Love: This jacket looks way more expensive than it is.

What We Don’t Love: Not everyone is a fan of the boxy look in the back.



One of our editors first got a BlankNYC faux leather jacket in her college days over seven years ago — yes, the brand has been making them for that long — and has worn it from nights out at the bars, to first dates, and everything in between. Coming in at just under $100, this edgy jacket comes in three colors that are fit for fall — black, maroon, and tan. With stunning hardware and zippers galore, it gives off an edgy vibe that can elevate any outfit. “This faux leather cropped motorcycle jacket will add that perfect edge to any look,” says Zinns. “Style with jeans and a T-shirt for the day or a silk slip dress and boots for a cute date night look.” While we are a fan of the boxy, cropped shape, it may not be for everyone. If you prefer a more fitted leather jacket, consider Quince 100% Leather Motorcycle Jacket.

Price at time of publish: $98

Size: XS-L | Materials: Polyurethane, viscose | Colors: 3

Best Jean Jacket: Abercrombie & Fitch Winterized Denim Sherpa Jacket

Buy at Abercrombie.com



What We Love: The faux fur lining will keep you nice and toasty when it’s chilly out.

What We Don’t Love: We wish the sleeves were a little bit longer for the taller folk.



If you had to choose just one jacket to wear this fall, we think a jean jacket is the way to go. Denim is a classic fabric that looks good year to year, not to mention it wears beautifully over time, and you truly can’t go wrong with this piece from Abercrombie. With faux fur lining on the inside and even on the collar, this statement piece can be dressed up or down for any occasion. We especially love the light wash it comes in (it’s also available in black) because it looks great with dresses, jeans for a denim-on-denim look, or even your favorite pair of trousers.

“Fall wouldn't be complete without a classic denim jacket, and this option from Abercrombie adds a cozy twist with its sherpa lining, making it transitional into the winter months,” says Wasserbach Moore. “This jean jacket effortlessly combines fashion with function, offering timeless style and warmth.” The sleeves can fall a tad short on taller folks, so consider sizing up.

Price at time of publish: $120

Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester, cotton, and lyocell | Colors: 2

Best Utility: Gap Utility Jacket

Buy at Gap.com



What We Love: There are size options for regular, petite, and tall, making it easy to find your perfect fit.

What We Don’t Love: It tends to run large.



Not as long as an overcoat but not as dressy as a trench, this utility jacket from Gap is an everyday piece that checks all the boxes. If you're not into exposed buttons, zippers, and snaps on your outerwear, you'll appreciate the jacket's streamlined look — there's a full-length zipper with snaps as well as four utility pockets with snaps, but you'd never know it since they're all hidden. The result: a more minimalistic appearance that doesn't take away from the jacket's sophistication. A concealed drawcord helps you define your waist. Reviewers say the jacket tends to run large, so if you prefer an even more fitted look, we recommend sizing down. This is also a great transitional piece that'll take you from fall to spring, making that under-$100 price point worth it if you plan on using it for multiple seasons.

Price at time of publish: $86

Size: XXS-XXL | Materials: Cotton, elastane | Colors: 2

Best Quilted: Everlane The ReNew Long Liner

Buy at Everlane.com



What We Love: Despite being a long coat, this is easy to pack and travel with.

What We Don’t Love: This runs a bit large — size down if you're not into the oversized look.



The ReNew Long Liner from Everlane is chock full of features we love, including a two-way zipper (for easy access to your pants pockets), a layerable fit (when you need to bundle up on extra chilly days), and a crew neckline that adds to its modern appeal. Consider it a longer version of our Best Overall pick, the Madewell Quilted Oversized Bomber Jacket. It's also surprisingly lightweight given its knee-length cut, and you can easily roll it up into a suitcase when traveling. The jacket does tend to run large, and since it doesn’t have any waist-defining features, you may want to size down. (PS: if sustainability is important to you, you'll appreciate that this piece is made from recycled plastic bottles.)

Price at time of publish: $198

Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Recycled polyester | Colors: 4

Best Puffer: Alo Yoga Gold Rush Puffer

Buy at Aloyoga.com

Buy at Bloomingdales.com



What We Love: The cinched bottom is adjustable and the cropped style makes this a lightweight option.

What We Don’t Love: We wish it came with a detachable hood.



At $200, this puffer could be considered an investment piece for some, but it’s built to survive crisp fall mornings and harsh winters for years to come. It's incredibly warm and comfortable, and the interior pockets are helpful for keeping things like tissues and your car keys secure. Pair it with some cozy joggers as you step out for your midday coffee, or on top of your workout set to keep you cozy before breaking a sweat.

Though this puffer is made of durable, water-repellent nylon, it doesn't come with a hood so it may not be the best option if you're dealing with torrential downpours (though you can layer a thin hoodie underneath for added warmth and protection).

Price at time of publish: $198

Size: XS-L | Materials: Durable Water-repellent nylon | Colors: 4

Related: The 16 Best Puffer Jackets To Keep You Toasty This Winter

Best Wool: Aritzia Babaton The New Stedman Coat

Buy at Aritzia.com



What We Love: Despite being stylish, this coat is designed to withstand temperatures down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit.

What We Don’t Love: It’s dry clean only.



If you’re ready to invest in a wool coat this fall, look no further than this stunner from Aritzia. Crafted from 100 percent virgin wool and lined with vegan suede, it’s designed to keep you warm, even when temperatures drop to the teens. Aritiza knows neutrals shouldn’t be limited to one shade and created this coat in eight different tones of browns, grays, and blacks. With a length that hits just above the knee and a singular button to close it up, this can be layered over chunky knits, dresses, tights, and just about any other outfit. “This coat is such a steal,” says Zinns. “This is another fall staple. Style with a wool mini dress and fall boot for a classic fall look.” Because it’s completely made from wool, it's more expensive and needs to be dry cleaned.

Price at time of publish: $348

Size: 2XS-2XL | Materials: Virgin wool | Colors: 8

Best Petite: Petite Studio Astoria Blazer

Buy at Petitestudionyc.com



What We Love: It gives petite folks the oversized look without being too large.

What We Don’t Love: We wish it came in more colors.



If you’re petite and have a hard time sourcing jackets that fit just right, allow us to introduce you to the masterminds at Petite Studio. Made with petite proportions in mind, this blazer won’t swallow you up. “Its petite-specific design ensures a perfect fit, making it a total fall essential,” says Wasserbach Moore. Coming in a beautiful camel color, it practically screams fall, and paired with the statement buttons and even a removable silver chain, it stands out from every other blazer out there. Whether you pair it with a cashmere sweater or atop a turtleneck, you truly can’t go wrong with styling this jacket. It’s so good, we just wish it came in more colors.

Price at time of publish: $188

Size: XXS-L | Materials: Polyester, rayon, spandex | Colors: 1

Best Plus-Size: Eloquii Oversized Jacket

Buy at Eloquii.com



What We Love: The oversized fit of the jacket is beautiful and perfect for layering.

What We Don’t Love: If it came in black, our lives would be made.



Is there anything better than an oversized blazer? We’re living for this gray herringbone jacket from Eloquii, that somehow manages to be perfectly tailored and oversized. “Its oversized silhouette is not only on-trend but also provides comfort and room to layer,” says Wasserbach Moore. “The rich color adds warmth and sophistication to your outfit. The quality construction ensures it will be a staple piece for the season and beyond.” With subtle shoulder pads and a fully lined interior, you’ll look great from the office to drinks and be kept warm. Can we just request a black version as well?

Price at time of publish: $70

Size: 14-28 | Materials: Polyester and wool | Colors: 1

Best for Travel: Carve Designs Vineyard Shacket

Buy at Backcountry.com

Buy at Carvedesigns.com



What We Love: Lightweight and versatile, this jacket is easy to travel with.

What We Don’t Love: You have to air dry it.



If you’ve ever had to hop on a plane during the colder months, we’re willing to bet you had a hard time packing. Bulky items like coats and jackets take up so much space, so it’s important to pick and choose pieces that are compact, versatile, and can keep you warm. And that’s exactly why this shacket from Carve Designs is made for traveling. It’s available in three colors, but we think the nude plaid hue worka best for travelers since it’s neutral and can be thrown on top of all sorts of outfits. With cozy sherpa detailing on the outer portion and the collar, it will keep you nice and toasty in even the chilliest of temps. Plus, it can be layered under a larger coat or atop a long sleeve.

“When you're on the go, this shacket is a travel companion you'll love. Its versatility allows you to dress it up or down for various occasions, making it a practical choice for fall adventures,” says Wasserbach Moore. “The brick plaid pattern adds a touch of style, while its lightweight design ensures ease of packing and comfort during your travels.”

The brand does recommend you air dry it rather than throwing it in the dryer, so be sure to give yourself some extra time when washing this jacket.

Price at time of publish: $118

Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Printed sherpa and recycled poly | Colors: 3

Best Windbreaker: The North Face Women’s Shelbe Raschel Hoodie

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Dickssportinggoods.com



What We Love: It protects against wind and water.

What We Don’t Love: We wish the hoodie was detachable to allow for more styling options.



The North Face is our go-to brand when it comes to weather-resistant pieces, and this hoodie is no different. Available in six different colors, this windbreaker will protect you from all of the elements. Other windbreakers on the market aren’t properly lined, but this baby has a fleece lining that will stop cold winds in their tracks. We’re also fans of the ribbed cuffs and, of course, the pockets. “Essential, essential, essential! I always enjoy the quality of The North Face jackets,” says Mahoney. “The price is perfect because it will last you for years to come.” Just note that the hoodie isn’t detachable.

Price at time of publish: $150

Size: XS-3XL | Materials: Recycled polyester, elastane | Colors: 6

Best Designer: Anine Bing Classic Blazer

Buy at Aninebing.com



What We Love: If you’re on the hunt for recycled leather, this is a great option.

What We Don’t Love: It's not vegan nor biodegradable.



Want to instantly look put together? Take a cue from celebrities like Vanessa Hudgens and throw on a leather blazer. “Everyone needs the perfect classic black blazer, everyone,” says Zinns. “This will carry you from day to night and elevate any look.” We couldn’t agree more, and if you want to add a designer piece to your wardrobe, we think Anine Bing is a great place to start. We love the subtle nod it gives to menswear tailoring thanks to its boxy, long fit. This specific blazer is partly crafted from regenerated leather and polyurethane. While we appreciate the sustainable touch, we recognize that the jacket isn’t the right fit for those who want to only shop vegan or true leather pieces and avoid PU leather.

Price at time of publish: $500

Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Recycled leather and polyester | Colors: 2

Best for Working Out: lululemon Define Jacket Luon

Buy at Shop.lululemon.com



What We Love: It helps regulate your temperature while working out during fall days.

What We Don’t Love: We’ve noticed pilling after placing it in the dryer, so it’s best to let it air dry.



Just because fall brings chilly weather, it does not mean we plan on stopping working out. Whether you go to the gym, pilates, or prefer exercising outside, there is one jacket that can work for it all — lululemon’s Define Jacket. The brand has made numerous variations of this jacket to wear when you’re on the move, but this one that’s crafted from sweat-wicking, four-way stretch fabric is our pick. With thumbholes, zip side pockets, and a back vent, this jacket lets you move without worrying about overheating or losing your essentials. The brand even added a locker loop for easy storage at the gym.

“I love the minimal design, and the mock neck makes it sleek,” says Wasserbach Moore. “The high-quality fabric and functional features make it ideal for workouts or hiking adventures in cooler weather. I would even wear this with some boyfriend jeans and chunky silver.”

One important note: we have noticed piling after placing it in the dryer, so don’t make the same mistake, and only air dry this jacket.

Price at time of publish: $118

Size: 0-20 | Materials: Nylon, lycra elastane | Colors: 11

Best Trench Coat: Banana Republic Amina Double-Faced Top Coat

Buy at Bananarepublic.gap.com



What We Love: The oversized fit makes it great for layering.

What We Don’t Love: We wish there was a detachable belt.



Love the look of pricey investment pieces, but want something that won’t drain your bank account? Look no further than this top coat from Banana Republic. It was specifically tailored with layering in mind, meaning you can pair it atop other jackets or sweaters and look fabulous while doing so. This coat is crafted from a double-faced wool blend, and since it’s unlined, it’s perfect for warmer fall days.

“This is easily my favorite coat to style in the fall,” says Mahoney. “It's a mid-weight layer that you can elevate or leave casual. Style it with a cute hoodie and pair of joggers, or even a midi dress — you’re for sure going to turn heads.” We do think a matching belt would be a nice touch, but just because it doesn’t come with one doesn’t mean you can’t add your own.

Price at time of publish: $300

Size: XXS-XXL | Materials: Virgin wool and polyester | Colors: 3

Best for Work: Dál Signature Linen Double-Breasted Blazer

Buy at Dalthelabel.com



What We Love: The double-breasted silhouette is super flattering.

What We Don’t Love: Linen wrinkles easily.



Linen is one of those materials that belongs in every wardrobe for every season. It’s light enough to wear in warmer weather but sturdy enough to layer during the fall. And this linen blazer from Dál the Label checks off all of our boxes. It comes in two colors — seafoam green and tan — both of which look great during the fall season. Plus, the notched lapels and double-breasted silhouette make for a staple that everyone can wear. “Style with a wide-leg matching trouser for a classic cool-girl suiting look,” says Zinns. “Pair with a turtleneck and loafer for fall.” Do note that linen wrinkles easily, so be ready to bring out the iron or steamer.

Price at time of publish: $485

Size: 2-10 | Materials: Linen | Colors: 2

What to Keep In Mind

Weight

How heavy or lightweight a jacket is plays a major role in how often you'll wear it. As costume designer Dajia Milan says, consider all of your daily activities before making a purchase. For instance, if you're an active person, try opting for something more lightweight and breathable so as not to feel constricted. With its sweat-wicking, stretchy fabric, lululemon Define Jacket Luon is our pick for working out. In other cases, a lightweight jacket may not be as important if it's serving the purpose of keeping you warm, notes Milan.

The material of your jacket will also play a role in how heavy it is. "Certain fabrics such as polyester, cotton, nylon, or any of these blended together are known to be more lightweight," says Katz.

And remember, the more layers a jacket has, the more likely it is to keep you warm, but the heavier it'll be, Katz tells InStyle. "Heavier jackets will almost always include a lining, down feathers or imitation down, or a hood or outer layers for style instead of function — in any case, extra fabric always means extra weight," says Katz.

Material

Fall jackets come in many different fabrics, the common ones being wool, cotton, leather, and cashmere. Choosing the right material is all about personal preference as well as the level of warmth you're seeking.

Wool coats, like Aritzia The New Stedman Coat, are ideal for moderately low temperatures that are above freezing, according to Katz, while cotton jackets are great for layering on warmer days. And when it comes to freezing temps, puffers, like Alo Yoga Gold Rush Puffer, are the best option. “The thickness of the down determines the level of warmth you'll get,” adds Katz.

Looking for something that'll always be on trend? Go for leather, like Quince Leather Motorcycle Jacket. Not too warm yet not flimsy, leather jackets are made for transitional weather and often get better with age.

Finally, for the coziest fabric out there, cashmere is a great option, like in the Max Mara Cashmere Pea Coat. It has natural lightweight fibers and is significantly warmer and softer than wool, hence the higher price tag.

Water-Resistance

Certain materials such as nylon and polyester are naturally water-resistant due to how tightly woven the fabric is. That being said, they're not fully waterproof, so if you do need your jacket to function when it rains or snows, look for one that has a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish, like Dickies Performance Hooded Jacket. Aptly named, when this coating comes into contact with water, it causes the droplets to bead up and roll off, thus keeping you dry.

Your Questions, Answered

What can you layer under a fall jacket?

Fall jackets are incredibly versatile. "I love to throw on a cotton jacket over my workout set on the way to the gym or a leather jacket on top of a bodysuit for an evening look," says model Gabriella Halikas. For more warmth, Milan recommends wearing a cashmere sweater under a cotton jacket to lock in the warmth.

How should a fall jacket fit?

Fit is dependent on so many factors, including material and the look you're going for. "I always say that with leather you should always buy the size you typically wear and avoid going oversized, as leather stretches out over time and can become too heavy if worn in a larger size," says Milan.

For teddy coats, Milan points out that they're already big and puffy, so there's no need to shop for a larger size. On the flip side, if you want a more tailored or structured fit to your jacket, make sure that there's enough space to wear a thick sweater underneath without it feeling snug and pinched under your arms, notes Milan.

For plus-size shoppers, Halikas says to avoid getting wrapped up in the size you're buying. "My size fluctuates all the time depending on what store I'm at, so it's better to focus on what makes you feel the most confident," she says.

Some telltale signs of an incorrect fit, according to Katz: if you hug yourself with your jacket on and you can't move your arms, if you can't close the jacket, if the armhole is too high, if you can't raise your arms, and if you can't sit without it bunching.

When should you buy a fall jacket?

There is no right or wrong time to invest in a jacket you plan on having in your wardrobe for years to come! And since fall jackets tend to be pretty versatile, you can find styles you can wear all year long. However, if you’re looking to get a discount, Zinns recommends shopping in the off-season, like spring or summer, especially if you want to save on a more expensive piece. To ensure your jacket still feels fresh when fall rolls around, stick to timeless styles like leather jackets, trench coats, and puffers.

But if you’re someone who loves participating in the latest fashion trends, timing is everything. “For the seasonal guy or gal, I believe it's ideal to start thinking about your fall wardrobe in late summer,” says Wasserbach Moore. “This way, you can embrace the excitement of the upcoming season and select a jacket that not only suits your style but also caters to the latest trends.”

Why Shop With Us

Michelle Rostamian is a freelance beauty, wellness, and lifestyle writer with nearly 10 years of experience in the beauty industry and bylines at PEOPLE, Byrdie, Real Simple, InStyle, and more. She interviewed experts and tested jackets herself for this story.

Taylor Augustin is a freelance beauty and fashion writer based in Newport Beach, California. She’s been writing since 2018 and has bylines at Teen Vogue, Byrdie, Popsugar, Reader’s Digest, InStyle, Brides, and more. She interviewed experts and tested jackets herself for this story. And if you ask her fiancé about her jacket obsession, he’d tell you she’s taken over his entire side of the closet with her finds.

Together, Rostamian and Augustin interviewed the following fashion experts:

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