When the temperature drops, your jacket becomes your most important piece of clothing.
But rather than chasing fleeting trends, investing in winter jackets that can withstand time, both in style and durability, is key to building a smart wardrobe. These 10 timeless styles have a way of elevating any outfit and continue to stay relevant even as the trends evolve.
Trench coat
Few things say timeless quite like the trench coat. Originally designed for military use, the trench has seamlessly integrated itself into modern fashion thanks to its ability to adapt to both casual and formal outfits. While beige is the classic, deeper tones like forest green or charcoal add a fresh spin, offering the same tailored elegance with a more unexpected twist.
Dominique Healy Theodora Trench, $890
Camilla and Marc Burdock Check Trench Jacket, $780
Denim jacket
A denim jacket in winter might sound counterintuitive, but hear us out. It’s the kind of piece that gives your outfit a little edge without trying too hard, especially if it’s oversized and chill. Think of it as the cousin to your favourite summer jacket, perfect for layering over chunky jumpers or pairing with scarves when the temperatures dip. The beauty of denim is that, like a well-worn pair of jeans, it gets better with time.
Levi’s Women’s 90s Trucker Jacket, $169
Wynn Hamlyn Utility Denim Jacket, $495
Relaxed-fit blazer
An oversized blazer is more than just a jacket, it’s a statement, and the relaxed fit gives you freedom while maintaining a structured silhouette. This piece plays beautifully with contrasting layers, like a soft turtleneck under a sharp shoulder, and instantly polishes up everything from jeans to sweats.
Collarless blazer
If the oversized blazer is a study in relaxed structure, the collarless blazer offers modern minimalism. With its clean, uncluttered lines, this jacket has a way of transforming any look into something elevated without feeling stiff and brings an unexpected sophistication that works for both professional settings and weekend wear.
Laing Double-Faced Cardi Blazer, $429
Harris Tapper Angelo Jacket, $989
Tuesday Label Cleo Jacket, $379
Long-line coat
A full-length coat is the epitome of refined winter outerwear and can elevate even the simplest outfit. Layer over jeans and a tee for everyday wear, or pair it with a dress and boots for something more polished. Its timeless appeal lies in its versatility, and it’s a modern shape that will always feel relevant.
Harris Tapper Long Egon Coat, $1,199
Shearling/faux fur-lined cropped jacket
This is a coat that says you’re both practical and stylish, which can be a tough balance to strike. It’s the jacket you throw on when you want warmth without bulk and the juxtaposition of texture and structure makes it an interesting piece to experiment with. Pair it with sleek trousers for contrast or let it elevate a casual look with jeans and sneakers.
Levi’s Sherpa Flight Jacket, $269
Karen Walker Cropped Aviator Jacket, $450
Assembly Label Leather Bomber Jacket, $720
Leather jacket
Like denim, a leather jacket is that rare piece of clothing that only improves with age — an investment that pays off year after year. In black or brown (or even a deep burgundy), a motorcycle silhouette, bomber or blazer, the leather jacket has a rebellious quality that grounds any outfit.
Storm Leather Biker Jacket, $749
Paris Georgia Classic Leather Jacket, $900
Heavyweight bomber
The bomber jacket takes its cues from military-style outerwear but has evolved into a wardrobe staple with a more modern sensibility. Whether it’s padded or quilted, this jacket’s streamlined silhouette balances practicality and style with ease. Wear it over trackies for an athleisure look or pair it with a midi or mini skirt for an interesting mix of proportions.
Marlow Annex Wool Bomber, $499
Josephine Ultimate Bomber, $399
Quilted puffer
The quilted puffer jacket is not only a functional winter hero but also a testament to how form and function can coexist in one piece. The quilted detailing gives it a sense of texture and design, making it far more interesting than your standard puffer. While some might consider it purely utilitarian, when styled thoughtfully, a puffer can either complement or create contrast, making it a great all-rounder.
Karen Walker Quilted Voyager Jacket, $295
Remain Ava Quilted Jacket, $350
Sylvester Quilted Jacket, $399
Parka
Designed for extreme weather, the parka is perfect for those winter days when staying warm is a top priority. While practical, the parka is also a surprisingly chic option when done right, so look for a streamlined cut in colours that complement your existing wardrobe, and pair it with structured accessories to balance out its bulk.
Barbour Evie Showerproof Parka, $679
