News flash: it’s getting cold outside… and with the onset of the holidays, the temperature is only going to drop. So it’s time to put your denim jackets, leather bombers, and blazers away (or at least underneath), and start cozying up to this season’s hottest winter coats. We’ve picked out our favorite styles for every budget—so it’s time to get shopping!
The Puffer
This classic look is a must-have. Not only are puffer jackets completely practical for those Jack-Frost-nipping-at-your-nose-cold days, but they also come in tons of styles so you don’t end up looking like a marshmallow… or the collegiette who ate fifteen bags of marshmallows.
Steal: This puffer has everything you’re looking for… and more! That practical side of this coat will be keeping you warm, but with a faux fur collar trim, you’ll not only look cozy, but also cute.
Forever 21, $34.80
Spend: This jacket is that perrrrfect length, so search no more: it’s not too short, so wearing long sweaters with it isn’t a hassle. But it’s also not too long, so you won’t look like you’ve been eaten alive by your puffer.
Bloomingdale’s, $69.95
Splurge: We’re so over boring, black coats. This look is just right for that collegiette who wants to shy away from black, but doesn’t want to stray too far away from her comfort zone into crazy, bright colors.
Zara, $129
Camel Coat
As college students, we’re not exactly making the money to buy ourselves a real camel hair coat. But that doesn’t mean we can’t dress to impress. There’s this beautiful (and humane) idea of faux, after all. So instead of breaking the bank, we’re taking a thriftier approach to camel.
Steal: Nothing is more timeless than this double-breasted camel coat. Because it’s neutral, it’s an essential item that you’ll be wearing for years and years to come.
Forever 21, $39.80
Spend: Add some style to your outerwear with this combination of faux camel fur and faux shearling. The asymmetrical, cropped look is perfect to add to any outfit—dress it up or dress it down.
Nasty Gal, $68
Splurge: Warm up this winter in Aqua’s faux camel coat. The large pockets add a playful factor to the design. Wear it to class, to your internship, or out on the town.
Bloomingdale’s, $134
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Fur
Like camel coats, we can’t exactly whip out $1,000 for a trendy fur coat (especially if you’re a PETA supporter). But, that doesn’t mean you have to be drab all winter—so many collections and stores offer faux fur coats that are just as warm, cozy, and stylish as the real thing!
Steal: Feeling a little… feisty? Whip out your inner animal with this faux cheetah print coat. Pair it with solid colors and you’ve got yourself quite the ferociously fabulous get-up.
Forever 21, $44.80
Spend: If you’re hoping to pop this season, then look no further. While there may not be a lot of color to this coat, there is still a lot going on there. From shag to black and white, layer this piece with any outfit to get heads turning.
H&M, $59.95
Splurge: Go classic with this simple, black faux jacket. Black is not so basic anymore! And it will have you looking hip wherever you go.
Asos, $131.93
Belted
Not into the puffy, oversized coats this season? No worries—cinch your waist with a belted jacket. Because they come in almost every length you could wish for, finding the perfect fit for your body is easy as 1, 2, 3.
Steal: Miley’s not the only one who can have the best of both worlds. This coat has a removable, elasticized waist belt to show off your figure and also provides extra warmth with its puffer-like padding and style.
H&M, $29.95
Spend: Add some color to your wardrobe with this belted beauty. From deep red to black to dark green, Urban’s belted coat gives you the option to spice up your closet this winter with some lush earth tones.
Urban Outfitters, $99
Splurge: Whoever said comfort couldn’t be stylish? We’ve found that perfect combination with Zara. This coat not only looks like it’s sweatshirt-cozy, but it actually feels like that too once you slip it on.
Zara, $129
Double-Breasted
You don’t have to join the Army to look fashion-forward this winter. Military-inspired looks are popping up everywhere, from combat boots to army fatigue sweaters, and most importantly, double-breasted coats. With this style, you can go timeless or find something with a little more flavor. It’s time to report for duty.
Steal: The traditional military, double-breasted coat. With its classic collar, padded shoulders, and banded waistline, this jacket is timeless.
Forever 21, $47.80
Spend: If you’re looking for a coat with a little extra something, here it is. This coat offers the classic double-breasted style, with a twist: an adjustable belt around the waist for extra detail… and for a definitely flattering look.
Nine West, $86.99
Splurge: Add some flair to your look—literally! This Aqua military-inspired coat adds that extra flavor with its cape, giving you that sophisticated look all winter long.
Bloomingdale’s, $126.40