Winter is synonymous with cold weather, and nothing spells cozy and chic like a well-styled puffer jacket! Puffer coats are my go-to during the cold winter months in Seattle, so I am sharing my tips of the art of layering and some easy to recreate outfit ideas with your favorite puffer.
I’ve got you covered with the best puffer jackets to shop now, layering techniques, and essential tips to keep you warm and stylish all winter long.
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The Best Places to Shop for Puffer Jackets
Nordstrom: Nordstrom carries a diverse selection of women’s puffy jackets from luxury brands like Canada Goose and Moncler, as well as more affordable options from brands like The North Face and Marmot!
Amazon: Amazon provides a vast selection of women’s puffer jackets from a variety of brands, styles, and price points, with the convenience of fast shipping and easy returns. They are the best way to try on a bunch of styles without breaking the bank!
This jacket I am wearing above is my all time favorite puffer jacket from Amazon and has so many great reviews! It is stylish and keeps me warm on all the cold days, especially while playing in the snow with my girls.
Macy’s: Macy’s offers a wide range of women’s puffer jackets in various styles, colors, and price points, from casual to more formal options.
Lululemon: I absolutely love the selection of outerwear at Lululemon! From the gym to the streets, Lululemon’s puffer jackets offer versatility, durability, and fashion-forward aesthetics, making them the perfect jacket for for high-quality outerwear that performs as well as it looks.
Saks Fifth Avenue: Saks carries a selection of luxury women’s puffer jackets from high-end brands like Moncler, Canada Goose, and Burberry, offering premium quality, style and extra warmth.
Net-a-Porter: Net-a-Porter features a curated collection of designer puffer jackets for women, including exclusive styles and limited-edition collaborations from top fashion houses. They are splurge-worthy but you know you are getting great quality and something that will last for years.
How to Choose the Best Puffer Jacket
#1 Insulation: Insulation is key as it traps air within the coat, creating a barrier between the cold outside air and your body heat!
This trapped air acts as a buffer, keeping you warm in cold weather conditions. It’s important to look for a jacket that has an outer layer that can handle the elements, and an inside layer that is usually made of a fleece, down, or synthetic material which are all great ways to stay protected from the cold.
These days there are many lightweight options that offer great insulation like this puffer coat that has over 20,000 reviews!
#2 Water Resistance: The last thing we want when outside in the cold weather is to be wet! Water resistance is crucial in a puffer coat because it provides protection against rain, snow, and other moisture.
This feature is particularly important during outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, or commuting in unpredictable weather.
Whether braving the elements or navigating city streets, a water-resistant puffer coat ensures comfort and functionality in any weather scenario.
#3 Lightweight Yet Warm: Being lightweight yet warm is essential in a puffer coat for several reasons. Firstly, a lightweight coat is more comfortable to wear and allows for easy movement, whether you’re commuting, hiking, or engaging in outdoor activities.
Despite its lightness, a warm puffer coat still provides insulation to keep you comfortable and protected from the cold, without feeling bulky or restrictive!
When you’re looking for a quality ski jacket you will want something that won’t be too heavy or restrict you from everyday activities.
Finding the Perfect Puffer:
When it comes to choosing the right puffer jacket for your winter layering ensemble, there are a few key factors to consider. Look for styles with synthetic insulation or down filling for maximum warmth without the bulk. Even for casual use, you still want the warmth and of course, comfortable fit.
Brands like The North Face, Feathered Friends, and Patagonia offer some of the best high quality puffer jackets on the market, boasting high-quality construction and excellent insulation and down insulation.
Layering Like a Boss:
Now that you’ve got your puffer jacket sorted, it’s time to talk layering. The main thing to staying cozy in cold weather is to build your outfit from the inside out. A layering system is a must have for the season!
Start with a base layer made from materials like merino wool, which wicks away moisture and traps heat close to your body. This sets the foundation for your winter look and provides essential warmth on those frosty mornings in the winter season.
Next, add an extra layer for added insulation. This could be a fleece jacket or a lightweight down sweater, depending on the weather conditions. The goal here is to trap as much body heat as possible while still allowing for freedom of movement.
Finally, top it all off with your trusty puffer jacket. This outer layer acts as your shield against the elements, with its water-resistant shell keeping you dry in light rain or wet snow.
Opt for darker colors for a sleek and sophisticated look that pairs well with any outfit.
Where to Wear Your Puffer:
Puffer jackets aren’t just for extreme cold; they’re also perfect for everyday use and outdoor activities.
Whether you’re hitting the slopes for some backcountry skiing in the Pacific Northwest or simply running errands around town, a puffer jacket is a great choice for staying warm and stylish.
Formal Events: Begin with a silk or thermal base layer to keep you warm without adding bulk. Layer a dress shirt or blouse under a tailored blazer or coat for a sophisticated silhouette.
Add a cashmere or wool scarf for elegance and warmth. Finish with dress pants or a skirt, heels, and leather gloves for a refined and polished ensemble.
Outdoor Workouts: Puffers are great for outdoor workouts or sports! Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep you dry during physical activity.
Layer on a fleece or down jacket for insulation without restricting movement.
Don’t worry about the wet weather. Add a waterproof and breathable outser shell jacket to protect against wind and precipitation. Finish with performance leggings or pants, insulated gloves, and a beanie.
Date Nights: Begin with a sleek base layer, such as a fitted turtleneck or bodysuit. Layer a stylish sweater or knit dress for warmth and texture.
Add a sleek leather puffer jacket or faux fur puffer for sophistication and glamour. Finish with statement accessories like a statement necklace, clutch purse, and heeled boots or pumps! This is my go-to look for winter date nights.
Traveling: A good idea when traveling is to wear layers, as you never know what temperature the airport/airplane will be. Start with a comfortable and breathable base layer, such as a moisture-wicking top and leggings.
Layer on a cozy sweater or hoodie for warmth during flights or long drives and add a puffer coat that can be worn in various weather conditions. Finish with comfortable sneakers and a travel-friendly scarf or wrap for added comfort and style. Grab a water resistant puffer so you’ll be cozy and warm in all your travels!
20+ Stylish Puffer Coat Outfit Ideas
Urban Explorer: Combine a sleek black puffer jacket with distressed jeans, a chunky knit sweater, and lace-up combat boots.
Top it off with a plaid scarf and a beanie for a stylish yet practical ensemble perfect for navigating city streets in the cold weather.
Monochrome Magic: Opt for a white puffer jacket paired with white skinny jeans and a cream-colored turtleneck sweater.
Add white sneakers and accessorize with silver jewelry for a chic and minimalist winter look.
Preppy Perfection: Layer a navy blue puffer vest over a cable-knit sweater or button-down shirt, and preppy tailored pants.
Complete the look with loafers and a wool fedora for a polished preppy vibe that’s ideal for chilly days on campus or casual weekends.
Cozy Cabin: Embrace rustic charm with a quilted plaid puffer jacket, worn over a flannel shirt, jeans, and cozy shearling-lined boots.
Add a knit beanie and fingerless gloves for a cozy and stylish look perfect for a weekend getaway in the mountains.
Effortlessly Chic: Pair a camel-colored long puffer jacket with black leggings, a longline tunic sweater, and knee-high boots for a sleek and sophisticated winter ensemble.
Accessorize with a statement belt and oversized sunglasses for added flair.
Athleisure Vibes: Rock a neutral puffer coat with high-waisted joggers and a graphic hoodie or a fitted jumpsuits, chunky sneakers or snow boots for a sporty yet stylish athleisure look.
Finish off the outfit with a baseball cap and a belt bag for a cool and casual vibe.
Casual Cool: Pair a hooded puffer jacket with distressed denim, a graphic tee, and high-top sneakers for an effortlessly cool off-duty look. Throw on a beanie and a backpack for added functionality and style.
Edgy Glam: Make a statement with a metallic silver puffer jacket paired with faux leather leggings, a band tee, and studded ankle boots.
Finish the look with hoop earrings and a bold red lip for a touch of edgy glam.
Equestrian Elegance: Channel equestrian-inspired style with a quilted riding jacket layered over a turtleneck sweater, riding pants, and tall boots.
Add a silk scarf and leather gloves for a refined and timeless look that’s perfect for winter outings.
Feminine Flair: Layer a pastel-colored puffer jacket over a floral dress, tights, and ankle boots for a feminine and romantic winter look.
Add a wool beret and pearl earrings for an elegant finishing touch.
Street Style Swagger: Mix a oversized puffer jacket with cargo pants, a hoodie, and chunky sneakers for an urban-inspired street style look.
Finish off the outfit with a beanie and statement sunglasses for added attitude.
Casual Layers: Pair a quilted puffer vest with a plaid flannel shirt, skinny jeans, and duck boots for a casual and cozy winter ensemble perfect for running errands or grabbing coffee with friends.
Ski Resort Chic: Layer a sleek black puffer jacket over a thermal top, thermal leggings, and snow boots for a chic and functional look perfect for hitting the slopes or après ski activities.
Add a faux fur-trimmed hat and goggles for a stylish finishing touch!
Glamorous Evening: Elevate your evening look with a faux fur-trimmed puffer coat worn over a velvet dress, tights, and heeled ankle boots.
Accessorize with statement earrings and a clutch for a glamorous winter ensemble perfect for a night out on the town.
Weekend Warrior: Keep it casual yet stylish with a quilted puffer jacket layered over a striped sweater, boyfriend jeans, and Chelsea boots.
Finish off the look with a knit beanie and crossbody bag for a relaxed weekend vibe.
Business Casual: Layer a tailored puffer vest over a button-down shirt, sweater vest, and dress pants for a polished and professional winter look.
Complete the ensemble with oxford shoes and a leather briefcase for a sophisticated office-ready outfit.
Snow Bunny Chic: Embrace winter whites with a white faux fur-trimmed puffer coat worn over a cream-colored sweater dress, leggings, and shearling-lined boots.
Add a knit headband and mittens for a cozy and stylish look perfect for snowy days. It’s a popular choice for those instagram worthy pics!
Off-Duty Model: Rock a cropped puffer jacket with high-waisted jeans, a crop top, and ankle boots for an effortlessly cool off-duty model look.
Accessorize with oversized sunglasses and a crossbody bag for added glamour.
Vintage Vibes: Embrace retro flair with a retro-style puffer jacket in a vibrant color, worn over a vintage band tee, high-waisted jeans, and platform boots.
Accessorize with round sunglasses and a faux fur scarf for a funky and fun winter outfit.
Bohemian Bliss: Layer a quilted floral-print puffer vest over a flowy maxi dress, tights, and ankle boots for a bohemian-inspired winter outfit.
Add a floppy hat and layered necklaces for a free-spirited look that’s the best look for weekend brunch or a stroll through the park.
