Bonafide devotees of a good wool coat will tell you that it is an essential part of any cold-weather wardrobe. The best wool coats offer warmth and protection from the elements, all wrapped up in a generally sleek exterior. It's the stylish way to pull together any outfit in no time, whether that be a tracksuit and trainers or a chunky sweater and jeans.
“Wool is timeless, versatile, comfortable, and functional,” says designer and art director Maristella González. “A wool coat keeps you warm and can come in a variety of silhouettes, textures, and colors, so it’s truly a staple in any fall and winter wardrobe.”
Since finding the right wool coat that fits well and provides the right amount of warmth is no easy feat, we did the hard work for you. After speaking to experts and researching the market, we identified the most promising wool coats and tested them in the real world for two weeks. Over the course of the test, we wore them to work, errand runs, dinners, and special events, taking note of the fit, versatility, warmth, and breathability. At the end of the testing period, we also examined the coats to see if there were any signs of wear or tear. After taking all this information into account, we then narrowed down our list to the top-performing wool coats that are worth the investment.
Best Overall
L.L.Bean Classic Lambswool Peacoat
Materials: Lambswool, polyester lining | Colors: Camel, gray, navy, rust | Sizes: 4-3X, petite
A wool coat never goes out of style, so it only makes sense that if you are going to invest in one, you want to buy one that will last for years. While L.L.Bean isn’t exactly known for high fashion pieces, the brand excels at making high-quality staples, and we were blown away by the quality of this coat. Made from 100 % lambswool, this peacoat felt a lot softer, thicker, and warmer than other peacoats we’ve tried. The brand’s signature Thinsulate insulation added warmth without bulk, and we were impressed with how the lining is stitched and quilted so that it doesn’t sag over time. The buttons on peacoats have a tendency to loosen with repeated use, yet all the stitching on this coat looked clean and secured, and the coat came with extra buttons in case one does fall off. There were no signs of wear and tear at the end of the testing period, indicating this coat will last a long time.
The fit runs slightly large for that boxy, peacoat look. The extra space is appreciated since it made layering sweaters easy, though if you want a more fitted coat, we recommend sizing down. It does come in petite and plus sizes as well.
Best Budget
Zara Soft Oversized Coat
Materials: Polyester | Colors: Beige, gray, black | Sizes: XXS-XXL
Depending on your budget or your style needs, you may not be in the market to splurge on a coat, and Zara’s Oversized Coat gives you that luxe look and feel for less. Though it’s made from polyester rather than wool, the fabric feels high quality. Right out of the box, we could tell that the coat had a nice weight to it and it kept us warm in 30-degree weather. The oversized fit made it perfect for layering over bulky outfits and even as we wore several layers underneath, we never felt overheated as we strolled around in this topper. While we loved wearing it open to show off our outfit underneath when we buttoned it close, we felt as “snug as a bug” and the long length protected us from the wind. While we didn’t notice any signs of damage at the end of the testing period, we did wish the buttons were sewn on more securely.
Best Splurge
Rag & Bone Double Breasted Wool Coat
Material: 70% wool, 30% polyamide | Colors: Black, Dark Brown | Sizes: XXS–XL
Two of our experts put their stamp of approval on Rag & Bone’s Thea coat. Made from a sumptuous, Italian wool blend, it is designed with a slightly oversized, double-breasted fit. Fashion stylist Donovan McClenton loves the special small details of this coat. “Rag & Bone's Thea wool coat has subtle status signals to be noticed by the right people for the right things. For example, a bell sleeve,” he says. Alternatively, González is drawn to the rich chocolate colorway. “This shade is so rich and would contrast beautifully with any neutral, monochrome outfit,” she says.
Best Peacoat
Anne Klein Double Breasted Peacoat
Materials: Wool, polyester | Colors: 5 | Size Range: XXS-3X, petite
For those who prefer a fitted coat rather than an oversized one, this double-breasted peacoat is a timeless choice. We found the slim fit to be quite true to size in that there wasn’t much wiggle room, so if you plan to wear thick sweaters underneath, we recommend ordering a size up. Made from wool and polyester, this peacoat is very warm. You might overheat in it if running errands, so it may be better suited for wearing to dinners, brunches, and special occasions. Rich hues like magenta, red, and navy compliment the classic double-breasted chest, resulting in a shower of compliments when we wore this on a stroll through the park. We ordered a petite size, the coat hits around our butt, an ideal middle ground. It also comes in plus-sizes as well. We did find the outer material is a bit scratchy but this isn’t a dealbreaker for us, since our skin is not directly touching the outer material.
Best Size Range
Abercrombie & Fitch Wool-Blend Dad Coat
Materials: 62% Polyester, 33% wool, 3% acrylic, 1% viscose, 1% nylon lining | Colors: 9 | Sizes: XXS-XXL, petite and tall available
Let’s be honest—finding a coat that fits well in the sleeves, shoulders, and lengths can be surprisingly difficult, especially if you are shorter or taller than average. That’s why we appreciate the extensive size range of this Abercrombie and Fitch coat, which comes in both petite and tall sizes in addition to the standard fit. It also comes in various different shades and prints, including houndstooth and plaid, giving us all the options.
The material, which is made from polyester and wool, is warm and felt-like. We did notice some wrinkles when we first took it out of the package and when we sat in this coat for a while, but the wrinkles do dissipate with wear. We loved the sharp look of this dad coat so much, that we wore it every day during the testing period. The single row of buttons keeps the jacket loose and cool, though it does allow air to flow in from the top and bottom, making this jacket better for transitional weather than true winter.
Best Sustainable
Reformation Paley Double Breasted Coat
Materials: 70% recycled MWool®, 12% recycled polyamide, and 18% polyamide | Colors: Beige, navy | Sizes: XS-XL
Cocooning in an oversized coat provides the emotional support of a blanket, but with a sharp design like this one, we look way more polished. Though it’s oversized in the shoulders and waist, the sleeves weren't too long on our petite frame, making this oversized jacket look intentional rather than stolen from an old man. Hitting us at mid-shin, this coat did an excellent job of keeping out the cold while letting us layer any outfit underneath. Our thickest sweater? Yes! Hoodies? Check. Scarves? You got it. Created from a blend of recycled wool and polyamide, it’s breathable, high quality, and sustainable too. The only hard part is deciding between the beautiful beige or navy.
Best Everyday
Sam Edelman Wool Blend Notch Collar Coat
Material: 53% wool, 47% polyester | Colors: Black, Magenta | Sizes: 0–14
“I’m a sucker for sharp tailoring and Sam Edelman's modern take on the single-breasted wool coat wins,” McClenton says. Easy elegance is the name of the game with this easy, notch-collared silhouette. An insulated lining keeps things extra warm for those colder days. Choose from classic black or go for something bold with magenta, and style accordingly.
Best for Special Occasions
Babaton The Constant Coat
Materials: 90% virgin wool, 10% cashmere; Lining: 100% viscose; Interlining: 94% polyester, 6% elastane | Colors: Pearl, camel, black, navy | Size Range: 2XS-XL
Yes, this coat is an investment, but considering it looks and feels like a coat that should cost over $1,000, it’s actually a bit of a steal, according to our girl math. Created from a blend of virgin wool and cashmere, it’s luxuriously smooth, with a felt-like feel. The design oozes quiet luxury thanks to the ornate gold buttons, quality stitching, and tailored silhouette. Rather than being oversized it’s fitted in the chest and shoulders, and the size we ordered looked like it was designed just for us. Even though we’re considered petite at 5’3”, we enjoyed the long length, which hit us mid-calf, since it made any outfit look put together and added extra warmth. In fact, this coat is said to withstand temperatures down to -4 degrees Fahrenheit, and we found it to be ridiculously warm. Every time we wore it, we received a slew of compliments, because it just looks that good. Our only hiccup was that we didn’t realize that we had to cut open the pockets which come sewn shut, so don’t be alarmed, this coat does have pockets.
Best Shawl Collar
Avec Les Filles Wool Blend Belted Peacoat
Materials: 64% Polyester, 36% wool | Colors: Cinnamon, light purple | Sizes: XS-XL
There’s something so elegant about shawl collar coats, that while they don’t provide the highest level of insulation, we just have to have one in our closet. This one from Avec Les Filles is the ideal coat for transitional dressing. Though it’s not the type of coat you would wear in a snowstorm, it offers enough warmth for fall and spring days, not to mention the two hues—cinnamon and light purple—compliment the seasons. Polyester and wool come together to create a coat that both feels and look scrumptious and garnered a ton of compliments from strangers. Thanks to a removable belt tie, we could either highlight our waist or go for a more oversized blazer look. As veteran thrift shoppers, we can tell by the quality materials and construction this coat will last a long time.
Best Oversized
COS Oversized Double-Breasted Wool Coat
Material: 76% Responsible Wool Standard wool, 24% polyamide | Colors: Blak, Gray | Sizes: XXS–L
“My brown Cos Italian wool coat is the coziest—just like a warm hug. And so stylish!” says González. This season, Cos offers the coat in a black and gray colorway, but the sentiment still rings true. The roomy, double-breasted design is crafted from a responsibly sourced wool blend from Italy, certified by the Responsible Wool Standard. It has an oversized collar and notch lapels, as well as dropped shoulders and front welt pockets. Plus, premium stitching means it’s made to last. Lean into the voluminous look with an oversized sweater, tailored trouser pants, and leather loafer or oxford flats.
Best Tweed
Lauren Ralph Lauren Twill Long Coat
Material: 51% wool, 38% polyester, 7% acrylic, 4% other fibers | Colors: Broken Twill | Sizes: 0–18
“Lauren Ralph Lauren offers a tasteful, broken-twill wool coat for a generous price,” says McClenton. “The neutral hues evoke the chilling, fall evenings in the city.” The iconic, twill wool fabric and button-front closure blend the menswear notes the brand is known for, with a more feminine, funnel neck and a slightly A-line, waist-to-hem. It nearly hits your ankle for a longline look. Style yours with a tie-bow blouse, leather mini skirt, and knee-high boots for a little retro flair.
Best Plus-Size
Lane Bryant Shawl Lapel Wool Open-Front Coat
Material: 90% polyester, 10% wool | Colors: Brown | Sizes: 10–32 US
A shawl coat is a winter must-have, and this one checks off all the boxes for style expert and talk show host Meredith Shaw. “The drape on this wool coat is unlike any I’ve seen this season in extended sizing,” she says. “I love the vent slits up the side and the seaming through the bodice.” And the burnt orange brown brings the richness of pumpkin spice to life. A cozy and clean design—what more can you ask for? Style over a suit for a day in the office or with a tee, leather skirt, and pumps for date night.
Best Designer
Totême Signature Wool & Cashmere Coat
Material: 90% wool, 10% cashmere | Colors: Macadamia, Chocolate, Black, Camel | Sizes: XXS–XL
“This Totême made my heart skip a beat,” González says. “It’s definitely a splurge—financially and stylistically, not the most everyday item—but definitely a statement piece I’d cherish forever.” Impeccably draped, this coat, as the name suggests, is a brand signature, available season after season. Made almost entirely from wool, with a touch of soft cashmere, the double-faced fabric is finished with clean seams, while the shawl collar gives volume and the folding, draped effect. From jeans and a button down, to a knit midi dress and knee-high boots, the styling possibilities are endless.
Best White
Tove Wool Coat
Material: Lambswool | Colors: Off-White | Sizes: 34–40 FR
Winter whites are totally a thing. Complete your full look with a wrap coat in a creamy, off-white color. London-based brand Tove is known for their stylish and minimalist-forward designs, and it’s the dramatic shawl collar and cape that sweeps us away. Crafted from soft lambswool, this coat is as comfy as your favorite robe only way more stylish. Pair with a tonal outfit, like a cable knit sweater, off-white denim, and a matching beanie, to keep things feeling fresh.
Best Duffle
Original Montgomery Wooden Toggle Duffle Coat
Material: 70% wool, 30% mixed fibers | Colors: Camel, Charcoal, Navy, Red | Sizes: XS–XL
Duffle coats (also known as toggle coats) were historically named so due to the thick, durable, wool fabric they were made from, which also is used for duffle bags. An iconic silhouette, the toggle closures are made for easy unbuttoning and fastening in the cold. Large front pockets will hold your cell phone or wallet, should you want to go purse-free, and the voluminous hood will ensure you keep warm on blustery days ahead. We recommend styling simply with a luxurious turtleneck, your favorite jeans, and lug-sole boots.
Material: 60% polyester, 30% wool, 7% acrylic | Colors: Prince of Whales | Sizes: X–4X
“This double-breasted style of wool coat is perfectly menswear-inspired and I love this one from Penn especially because of its ability to fit everybody,” says Shaw. A traditional Prince of Whales check gives a subtle, nostalgic nod to the past, while remaining modern thanks to the tailored cut that will hug curves in the right places. During fall, go bare-legged underneath with a dress and midi boot combo, then swap in hosiery when the temperatures start to dip.
Best Blazer
Anine Bing Blazer
Material: 90% wool, 10% cashmere | Colors: Brown | Sizes: XXS–L
Some days you need a topper for warmth, but not a full coat. Cue the Anine Bing Quinn Blazer. This softly structured, double-faced blazer is made from a luxurious wool (with just a hint of cashmere) and has the perfect, oversized fit to layer effortlessly over sweaters, button-downs, light jackets, and more. It’s a blazer style that can also act as outerwear. Make it your grab-and-go option for crisp fall days or a good layering piece for winter nights.
Best Mid Thigh
Calvin Klein Cashmere Wool Blend Coat
Material: 60% wool, 33% polyester, 5% cashmere, 2% other fibers | Colors: 8 | Sizes: 0–18
Perhaps you’re petite, or perhaps you like something more structured; either way, a mid-thigh fit is a winning silhouette, especially when made from a soft, wool cashmere blend. This classic, tailored fit features a front-button closure, notched lapel, and two front pockets, and will be the everyday go-to in your closet for years to come. We love that it comes in your must-have neutrals as well as primary colors like yellow, red, and blue. Wear this coat with your favorite turtleneck, jeans, and boots for a winning cold-weather outfit.
Best Hooded
Nautica Peacoat
Material: 52% wool, 40% polyester, 8% other fibers | Colors: 8 | Sizes: XXS–XXL
Hoods are always a good idea, especially during the months full of heavy rain, wind, and snow. Often structured wool coats don’t have them, though. This Nautica peacoat is the answer, proving that fashion and function can coexist. The removable hood option allows you to wear both ways, depending on your mood, forecast, and styling preferences. Hitting just below the hip, it is your typical peacoat length that will get lots of wear during the cooler time of year.
What to Look for in a Wool Coat
- Fit: Trying on various options is essential for wool coats, which often have a tailored fit. “You want a wool coat to sit comfortably on your frame, showing your shape but never pulling in the shoulder or across the back,” says Shaw. “If you are between sizes, always choose the one that fits your back and shoulders and if you have to have it nipped in at the waist, or shortened in the sleeve, those are easy alterations.” And remember, try it on with various layers to mimic how you will actually dress in the winter.
- Color: McClenton recommends selecting a coat in a neutral shade like black, camel, gray or navy for the most versatility. Shaw agrees that neutrals are the way to go most of the time, but she admits this doesn’t always have to be the case. “I would go for a color that makes your soul sing,” she suggests. “I have had a bright red wool coat for years, and it always causes a stir when I take it for a spin!” Don’t be afraid to test the limits if you aren’t into neutrals, like with Calvin Klein’s Classic Cashmere Wool Blend Coat.
- Quality: “I personally look for quality wool and veer away from blends with synthetic materials,” says González. McClenton also recommends looking at the lining, which is a crucial aspect for him. “Most [wool coats] are lined with silk, but I prefer to re-line all of my sleeves in bemberg cotton to wick moisture,” he says.
- Silhouette: When deciding on the length and fit of your coat, think about how you will be styling your coat before purchasing. “Ask yourself these questions. “Will it be over a thick sweater? A blazer? Will you layer a long textured scarf over top? All of these style scenarios will indicate what silhouette is right for you,” says Shaw. For instance, if you are looking for a coat you toss over hoodies and bulky layers, go for an oversized design like Cos Oversized Double-Breasted Wool Coat. However, if you prefer something more form-fitting or formal-looking, we recommend a tailored coat like Babaton The Constant Coat.
Why Trust Byrdie
Emily Cieslak is an associate commerce editor. As a fashion lover, she has written about style for People, InStyle, Brides, and Real Simple and has assisted celebrity stylists.
Full-time freelance writer and fashion editor Kristina Rutkowski has been covering all things style, trend, and shopping for over 10 years. Her bylines have appeared in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Vanity Fair, WWD, The Zoe Report, Editorialist, InStyle, and SELF. Living in New York City, she is often able to see and try out brands firsthand, directly through the designer showrooms, which has provided ample research opportunities for this story. To round out her research for this article, she interviewed the below experts:
- Donovan McClenton is a New York-based freelance fashion stylist who is enthusiastic about branding and consulting and eager to help companies advance their focus on luxury apparel.
- Maristella González is a Brooklyn-based designer and art director from Panamá.
- Meredith Shaw is a beloved TV host of Canada’s #1 morning show Breakfast Television and a changemaking style expert with a focus on empowerment and inclusivity.
According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough wool coats from Black-owned and/or Black-founded businesses to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.