5 Affordable Outerwear Trends Fashion People are Wearing in 2025

Woman wears leopard-print trench coat and black sunglasses, walking down Paris street.

(Image credit: @lenafarl)

At the start of the year, I dove headfirst into dissecting 2025's outerwear trends. Although I attempted a no-buy month after an overzealous spree of chic tops and jeans during the holidays, I have to admit—I bought a coat. Or two. Or three. (Sorry, not sorry!) But here’s the thing: I don’t regret a single one. After a deep dive into the season’s offerings, I can confirm first-hand that 2025’s outerwear is all about looking expensive and original. Think animal prints that turn heads, sleek collarless jackets for effortless elegance, and luxurious leather maxi coats that whisper wealth.

Although you'd think these 2025 outerwear trends cost a million bucks, you'll only look (and feel) uber-expensive. Trust me, your credit card will thank you. Below, shop all the best under-$150 2025 outerwear trends that have the fashion person stamp of approval, mere days into 2025.

Collarless Jackets

Woman wearing black collarless jacket, jeans, black sunglasses and red bag standing in front of marble hallway.

(Image credit: @anna__laplaca)

Sleek, collarless jackets are one of 2025’s most refined outerwear trends, combining elegant minimalism with a timeless, almost mid-century shape. Sharp tailoring or soft, waist-enhancing silhouettes are the go-to looks for someone who's craving a collarless jacket. Despite their high-end appeal, chic options are shockingly available for well under $200.

Faux Leather Frocks

Woman wearing leather trench coat, black shoes, black tights and black leather clutch standing in front of Paris wooden door.

(Image credit: @iliridakrasniqi)

PETA-approved! Maxi leather coats and cropped leather jackets are making a major comeback in 2025, with sleek, tailored silhouettes dominating both the runways and our feeds. Whether in classic black or bold hues like deep reds and olive greens, these coats exude timeless sophistication without feeling like you're stepping straight out of a Sci-Fi film.

Oversize Wool Coats

Woman wearing grey trench coat, black pants, black turtleneck and black loafers standing in front of gated door.

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

If there's one thing a fashion person has duplicates in their closet of, it's a classic wool coat. A roomy silhouette and dropped shoulders allowing for easy layering while maintaining a polished look sans trying too hard. A slouchy, oversize silhouette with a simple, tied waist or button is an instant way to elevate any outfit while still being cozy and warm.

Animal Printed Outerwear

Woman wearing leopard coat, jeans, black sunglasses and brown bag standing in front of cobblestone street.

(Image credit: @lenafarl)

Rawr. Clearly, 2025 continues the animal-print revolution after last year's surge, and winter coats are leading the charge. Leopard, zebra, and snake patterns are making fierce statements, proving that bold prints never go out of style. Style with your favorite jeans and neutral-colored turtleneck to let your outerwear do all of the talking.

Boxy Trench Coats

Woman wearing black wool coat, brown skirt, brown sweater and browntights standing in front of gated window.

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

After coming back from Paris right after the New Year, I can confirm, the city's stylish set were all wearing this timeless coat. While trench coats are more of a staple than an overly trendy piece for most French women, it doesn't negate the fact that this coat was nearly on every single chic woman I saw in the French capital Wear over your favorite basic outfit to emulate that Parisian je ne sais quoi.

Ana Escalante
Associate Features Editor

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor whose work ranges from dissecting size inclusivity at fashion week to discussing how American Girl Doll meme accounts are the the answer to society's collective spiral. She's covered it all: Copenhagen Fashion Week, Roe v. Wade frontline protests, and the re-branding of jorts, or, jean shorts for the uninitiated. At Who What Wear, Ana crafts sharp, irreverent features that speak to a digital-first generation, bringing her signature wit and unapologetic tone to long-form fashion and beauty content. If it’s smart, snarky, and a little unexpected, you'll probably find her name on it.