The best parkas have one thing in common: They need to look legitimately like something a genuine Britpop boy would wear (even if you aren't matching yours with a scowl and bootcut jeans) and have enough quality detailing to pass for being entirely utilitarian. That means proper cotton drills (like a denim-thick khaki fabric) and plenty of pockets for, you know, important stuff like penknives and, er, lip balm…
While padded coats have been gaining more column inches of late thanks to a major boom in sales (blame Balenciaga), the parka coat has been quietly toiling away in some of the hippest and most hard-working wardrobes a girl could conjure up. Whether a high-fashion version—we're talking fur or sheepskin lined in a rainbow of colours—or back to traditional basics, there are now myriad outfit options that can be made even more enjoyable with the addition of this cosy-cool cover-up. There are few things quite as joyful as wrapping up against the elements while still looking entirely pulled together, wouldn't you agree?
So with that in mind, we uncovered some great street style looks that revolve around the parka and provided you with a list of the best to shop now. Enjoy!
Style Notes: French girls in parkas? Now there's a dream situation. Aymeline Valade uses a schoolgirlish dress as a base, and then punks it up via her coat and boots.
The brand name probably gives it away: These guys know what they're doing.
Style Notes: Yep, your parka can be best friends with your hoodie—just balance out the casual slant with some fancy shoes.
Flattering on anyone's waistline, too.
Related: It's the Perfect Time to Invest in a Great Winter Coat—28 That Stand Out
Style Notes: Too hot for your furry parka? Just shoulder-robe it, darling.
The colour combination on this will go with everything.
Style Notes: If you're feeling brave enough, use a camo parka as a neutral base for wacky extras.
This brand is cult among the Frow-crowd right now.
Style Notes: Fashion loves an unexpected mix, and this cute floral dress–and-anorak formula is certainly that.
Parka connoisseurs will appreciate this.
Related: Trust Me—These 5 Ankle-Boot Trends Will Be Everywhere You Look in 2024
Style Notes: Oh, we do like the sassy flash of leg Zanita Whittington is providing here.
Keep it classic.
Style Notes: Who says you can't go eclectic? We love the retro-meets-tailoring-meets-parka combination pictured here in NYC.
We won't force you to stick to khaki if you don't want to.Next up: 11 A/W 17 looks everyone needs to see.Opening Image: Style du Monde
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