We Try Before You Buy: The Very Best Winter Coats on the Market

Our We Try Before You Buy series aims to take the stress out of shopping and eliminate the number of Post Office visits you make each month to return failed online orders. We test new-season buys and styling ideas so you don’t have to, and this month our editors road tested dozens of new winter coats to bring you their edit of the ones that are truly worth investing in.

It's been a bright (but crisp) start to the season, and although we usually spend the last few months of the year wistfully remembering summer, this time around we've been keen to pack away our shorts and sandals and lean into the cooler weather that comes with winter. Why the haste to hibernate, I hear you ask? It could only be one thing: cosy coats. Every editor I know starts thinking about the one as soon as September rolls around. That is, the one winter coat that will transform our wardrobes and often the most expensive purchase we will make all year. A good coat should be considered in the same category as handbags and boots for their longevity, after all, and once you find a coat worth investing in, what you wear underneath becomes less important than the true star of the show.

So for our latest instalment of We Try Before You Buy, we're taking the hard work out of outerwear shopping this season and bringing you our selection of the very best coats on the market. Expect the usual suspects: wool, shearling, checks and wraps, alongside some new favourites (like my personal favourite, the scarf coat). Each is strong enough to warrant a place in your wardrobe, but we've thought long and hard about the styles that will cater to every personality. From sleek investment designer buys (Toteme, Max Mara and Filippa K always score highly) to some impressive affordable finds from the high street (bravo, M&S and COS), our goal is to give you the practical tips you'll find handy when shopping for specific sizing or look and feel. So, ready to upgrade your coat collection for 2024? Keep scrolling to see and shop the winter coats that get the Who What Wear stamp of approval.

Mango Fringe Wool Blend Coat

"The moment I saw this Mango coat online, I knew I had to try it. First thing I’ll say is that it looks so expensive. I know it’s not the cheapest coat on the site, but the extra expense is justified for the 72% wool (28% polyester) and just how premium it makes an outfit look—it really elevates any outfit worn beneath it. As part of Mango’s latest Western edit—which I can’t get enough of—I love the fringed hemline at the bottom and the detachable scarf (which also has a fringe trim). For me, these details subtly allude to the Western trend and add something a bit different to an otherwise simple outerwear staple but don’t go so far you can’t consider it timeless. I guess the only concern is that it’s such a fresh, creamy hue, so you need to be careful when wearing it. I personally would save it for special occasions." Rebecca Rhys Evans, Senior Fashion and Beauty Editor, Branded Content

Shop the Mango Fringe Coat:

Pros: Fringe trim makes a simple coat cool and very chic. Plus, it’s extremely comfortable to wear.
Cons: You need to get the hang of the detachable scarf. My tip is to unfasten it and just drape it across your neck and over one shoulder.

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Max Mara Locri Wrap Coat

"The Max Mara Locri coat in navy is the perfect mix of luxury and laid-back chic. The wool-cashmere blend feels amazing—super soft yet structured enough to keep you warm and stylish. It’s true to size but has that relaxed fit that’s ideal for layering. One small downside: There’s no loop for the belt, so it can feel like it’s slipping as you walk. But honestly, I love wearing it open for that effortlessly cool, modern vibe. Overall, it’s a timeless, versatile piece that totally captures why Max Mara is my go-to for outerwear." Humaa Hussain, Junior Branded Content Editor

Shop the Max Mara Locri Coat:

Pros: Strokeably soft and indulgent finish.
Cons: Belt loop needs tacking for hands-free wear.

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& Other Stories Funnel Collar Wool Coat

"This luxe-feeling & Other Stories coat was such a treat to try on. The long length made it feel extra warm and cosy, perfect for the colder winter months, and I fell in love with the funnel-neck detail. The light cream colour almost scared me off (I had big foundation transfer fear), but even in a size 8, the neckline felt roomy enough that I didn’t need to worry. Once tied at the waist and fully buttoned up, it's impossible not to feel chic running around town in this style. Plus, you’re pretty covered from head to toe for whatever the Great British weather has to throw at you. Pair with a beanie and sunglasses, and this coat is perfect 'hibernate-for-winter' attire." Annie Wheatland-Clinch, Assistant Social Media Editor

Shop the & Other Stories Funnel Coat:

Pros: Designer finish on the high street.
Cons: Light colour requires care.

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COS Hooded Wool Duffle Coat

"COS’s camel duffle coat caught my eye instantly. With a double-breasted silhouette and nostalgic duffle-inspired design that reminded me of the styles I used to wear across the 2010s, it immediately compelled me to try it on. Composed of 72% wool, the coat was aptly insulating, keeping me cosy even when only wearing a T-shirt underneath. Naturally, my favourite part of the camel coat was the detachable hood, which perfectly fit my head and would still work comfortably even if wearing my hair in a ponytail or if styling a hat.

"I sized down for a neat finish, and it hugged my shoulders nicely, but if you’re looking for a coat that you can wear on top of a woolly knit, then I suggest you take your normal size. I'm 5’7”, and the coat fell to my mid-calf, which felt like the perfect length, but if you’re any shorter, you might find that it needs to be altered a little. Beyond the cosy fit, COS really nailed the perfect warm camel shade—so easy to slot into a capsule wardrobe. I really felt that this coat offered so much styling potential. The structured design gives the coat and elegant edge that can see it styling well with long dresses throughout winter, whilst the detachable hood adds a playful touch that makes it appropriate for everyday styling." Natalie Munro, News Writer

Shop the COS Hooded Duffle Coat:

Pros: No need to carry an umbrella! The hood is well-equipped for all weather.
Cons: The sizing is generous, so worth trying on to avoid discrepancy.

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H&M Oversized Maxi Coat

"H&M has been excelling in the outerwear department this season, so I couldn't wait to get my hands on a great winter coat and see if it lived up to the hype. After scanning through the seriously good selection, I finally settled on the Oversized Maxi Coat. One thing that drew me to it was just how expensive it looked even though it comes in at just £75, and as coats go, this is a really reasonable price. The dark-grey shade is really versatile, as a black coat may be but with that slight tone difference that sets it apart, letting it be the perfect accompaniment to all shades. It's the finer details that make this coat feel so premium, from the collar tab for an extra element of defence when the coldest weather set in to the vertical side pockets that maintain the streamlined silhouette. As the name suggests, the coat is very oversize, and I would size down for a neater fit whilst still maintaining that relaxed feel." Florrie Alexander, Acting Affiliate Editor

Shop the H&M Oversized Maxi Coat:

Pros: Affordable and highly expensive-looking.
Cons: Slightly too oversize, so recommend sizing down.

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Aligne George Wrap Coat

"I couldn't wait to try on this coat from Aligne. I fell in love with the chocolate-brown hue and knew that it would go with everything in my wardrobe, and from the minute I tried it on, I was so impressed with the quality. The coat itself feels thick and heavy (so perfect for keeping warm in winter!), and I was pleased to see that it was made from over 50% wool. It has an oversize fit, which I was originally a bit wary about, as I usually only buy petite coats (I'm 5'1"), but I was pleasantly surprised by how it looked, and I liked the fact that I could adjust the waist thanks to the tie waistband. It was a little bit long on the arms but nothing that my local tailor can't fix. All in all, if you're looking for a versatile, everyday coat that is both practical and stylish, you really can't go wrong with this." Grace Lindsay, Junior Beauty Editor

Shop the Aligne Wrap Wool Coat:

Pros: Feels luxurious, has a stylish silhouette, and comes in a range of shades.
Cons: A slightly higher price point than high street.

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The Frankie Shop Gaia Double Breasted Maxi Coat

"I had been eyeing up this Frankie Shop coat for a long time before I made the plunge, and I am SO glad I did. Earlier this year, I was on the hunt for a classic black coat that would go with everything, whether it was to throw over gym clothes or to wear to an important work meeting, and the Gaia style fits the bill perfectly. I wear a medium, and yes, it is very oversize, with shoulder-pad inserts to exaggerate the shape even more. I'd normally wear a dress size 12 or 14, so I would consider a large in a coat, but the medium is just roomy enough, letting me wear jumpers and even blazers underneath without bunching up or pulling. The Gaia is also a maxi style, so probably not a good option if you're petite! For reference, I'm 5'7", and it hits me just at my ankle.

"Quality-wise, this is well worth the price tag in my opinion. It's warm, thick (but not too thick) and has a lovely logo detail on the buttons. It is, however, not 100% wool, but instead a wool-blend with a 20% mix of polyamide (a synthetic material that is often added to winter coats for insulation but also to bring down costs). There's a lining, although that is polyester satin, and deep pockets, which are essential in my eyes. It's not the most affordable style out there, but if you want to invest in your winter wardrobe like me and are looking for a coat that will literally never go out of style, I think this is worth it. Safe to say, I absolutely love it and have not regretted the purchase once!" Poppy Nash, Managing Editor

Shop the Frankie Shop Gaia Coat:

Pros: Good quality and will go with anything in your wardrobe. Lovely shape if you don't mind an oversize look.
Cons: Expensive and won't work on petite frames.

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Reformation Irene Jacket

"The Irene Jacket in Charcoal Plaid is on my wish list for winter. I love everything Reformation does, and this coat is no exception. With its 70% recycled wool blend, the material is super soft and would keep you warm through the winter. I tried the small, which was quite roomy compared to other brands. If you want a slightly oversize look, I would recommend sticking to your usual size. It has a '60s silhouette that's slightly shorter than my other winter coats, but styled on the website with a matching dress set, it looks really chic. It also comes in Cream and Lipstick (a deeper statement red perfect for party season), but I styled the grey with an everyday look of Reformation's Wilder jeans and a knit, and the coat made the outfit feel more put-together—something I would wear from day to night. The Charcoal Plaid is a versatile colour for styling, but the plaid detail makes it more visually interesting than a plain block-colour neutral coat." Emily Shannon, Video Editor

Shop the Reformation Irene Jacket:

Pros: If you don't want to be swamped by a longer coat, this is just as warm.
Cons: Wish it were 100% wool for that price, but I appreciate Reformation uses a mix of recycled materials.

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Rixo Milly Leopard Print Coat

"I first wore this Rixo coat during Paris Fashion Week and had multiple French people stop me in the street and in stores to ask me about it or compliment me on it—when you have Europe's chicest people interested, then I think it's an investment well made. Yes, leopard is trending (again) for A/W 24, but I would argue that this is a classic style that will last for many winters to come. Thanks to its swingy A-line shape, neat collar, longline silhouette and muted leopard print, this has a vintage feel and can be translated into wardrobes with wildly different personal styles.

"The fabric isn't too heavy, so this makes a great autumn coat and could work on chillier days with knits and boots and tights. I probably wouldn't wear it in the depths of winter—I'd be more likely to reach for shearling or something padded—but it can always be guaranteed to elevated the plainest of outfits. In all honestly, I've never bought Rixo piece I've regretted (I still wear a dress from one of the first collections), so I imagine this will serve me very well." Hannah Almassi, Editor in Chief

Shop the Rixo Leopard-Print Coat:

Pros: The fit and volume in the coat makes it feel very luxe.
Cons: The fabric is a lighter-weight, so this might not be the coat you'd wear when it's below zero!

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Toteme Embroidered Scarf Coat

"Chances are you’ve already seen myriad of people on your IG feed in the iconic Toteme scarf jacket, but the longline coat is new for 2024, and mark my words: It’s going to be just as popular. It’s made from a wool and recycled-wool blend and features the classic shawl collar with scarf detailing and contrast stitching across the panels of the original. When it comes to the sizing, this is definitely on the roomy side. I’m wearing an EU 38 and could easily go down a size, but overall the relaxed silhouette means you can fit plenty of layers underneath it to help stay cosy. It fastens with buttons, and you can wrap the scarf around the neck or leave it loose. I think if you are taller than me (so 5’6" and above), this would maybe sit at an odd part of the calf, but for my frame I find the length to be perfect.

"Of course, it is expensive—there’s no denying that. At just over £1000, it’s certainly an investment, but if, like me, you loved the jacket and held off because you didn’t think it was practical enough to be a winter coat, this is for you." Georgia Seago, Copy Editor

Shop the Toteme Embroidered Scarf Coat:

Pros: Incredibly chic, a lovely rich camel shade, and warm.
Cons: The wool blend is a little itchy, so you're going to want to wear over long sleeves rather than short.

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Kitri Simone Vinyl Coat

"This winter, I'm all about burgundy tones, so I instantly fell in love with this vinyl coat from Kitri. It's such an easy shade to wear, especially as I'm trying to break out of wearing black, and it goes so well with both the lighter and darker neutrals in my wardrobe. The coat itself is warm enough when layered up, so it's one I'll be turning to constantly throughout the really chilly months. I opted for a UK 8 and can say that the style fits true to size. However, the cut is relaxed enough that I'll be able to fit my chunky knits under when the temperature drops, but not so oversize that it looks too big on me. It does come with a buckled belt, but I also plan to wear it without as it looks great both ways. I also really like that it comes with removable fur cuffs and a collar. For more casual days, I've been wearing the coat without them, but I'll definitely be popping them on for nights out thrown over my LBD." Brittany Davy, Editorial Assistant

Shop the Kitri Simone Vinyl Coat:

Pros: Can be worn multiple ways due to removable belt and fur collar/cuffs.
Cons: It does feel quite stiff initially the first few times you wear it (can also be quite noisy at first for this reason). Hand-wash only.

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Arket Short Pile Jacket

"Arket has perfected its offering of furry and shearling jackets this year, and as someone who always runs cold, I couldn't wait to try on its Short Pile Jacket. The material is so soft and plush and can be buttoned all the way up to change the silhouette for a more put-together look. It's worth noting that the jacket fits a little oversize (I wore an XS), but I didn't mind the slightly baggier fit. At £189, I do think that the material could be more premium, but it's well constructed and will be my go-to as the temperature starts to really dip." Jerrylyn Sanguiped, Affiliate Manager

Shop the Arket Short Pile Jacket:

Pros: Super warm, perfect for the colder-weather months, plus the material is really soft.
Cons: Can imagine it's quite hard to keep clean. It can be put in the washing machine, but not sure if this would change the feel of the fluffy exterior. At 100% polyester, I think it could be made of a more premium material for price point

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Marks and Spencer Autograph Coat

"Can we please take a moment for the colour of this M&S coat? Despite my initial concern, the subtle buttermilk-yellow shade was actually really easy to style (tip: it looks great with blue denim), and it’s a colour trend that’s here to stay. Along with the gorgeous hue, the fabric and fit made it feel way more luxurious than the price tag would suggest, and I can see this becoming my everyday winter coat. This was a size 12, which is one or two sizes bigger than I’d usually go for, but it fit really well and I could easily wear a knit underneath. Depending on your style, I’d consider sizing up for your desired level of slouchiness." Megan Storey, Social Media Editor

Shop the M&S Coat:

Pros: Flattering longline cut that skims the figure without being too boxy.
Cons: This beautiful colour does require extra care to keep clean. Not one for the clumsy!

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