While I’m always sad to bid farewell to summer and my closet full of lightweight, flirty dresses, I have to admit that I really adore dressing for the fall season, especially when it comes to fall coats!
This transitional period between warm summer days and bitter cold winter temperatures is the perfect weather to throw on a cozy sweater topped with a stylish coat. I have a few staple fall pieces, like this classic Burberry jacket, but this year, I decided that it was time to further embrace the crisp weather and invest in a new coat.
As the leaves continue to turn into a kaleidoscope of colors, I’ve rounded up 5 top picks for fall coats. Who knew the change of seasons could be so chic?!
The A-Lyst for Fall Coats for Women
As a big fan of J.Crew, I’m in love with this polished fall coat and the gorgeous array of colors in which it is available (I chose the dark cognac). The double-serge wool provides the perfect amount of warmth, while not feeling too heavy or restrictive. At 5’2″, I typically wear either petite or regular sizing, but given the length on this blazer-style topcoat, I opted for a 4 petite, which hits a few inches above my knee and is fitted without being too snug. You know a coat is a hit when you wear it once and can’t count the compliments!
If you love plaid, this Zara coat is the perfect addition to your closet. Combining gray, black, cream, and brown, this layering piece can virtually be worn with every color combination. I love to wear it over a burgundy or mustard-colored sweater for an extra pop of color, but it looks equally as sophisticated when worn with black. If you’re able to try this one on in the store, I’d recommend it, as Zara’s sizing can be a bit tricky. The small size fits well in the body, but the shoulders look a little big if it’s not worn with a heavier sweater underneath.
Theory Clairene Leopard Print Faux Fur Coat
While leopard has never really gone out of style, it appears to have had a bit of a resurgence on the fashion scene this season. In fact, Kate Spade’s latest collection features it very prominently and I am in love with everything! This faux fur Theory coat is the perfect piece to liven up your wardrobe and is very warm despite not having any buttons to close the front. I found this coat to run a bit big, so I ended up sizing down to the extra small (also referred to as “P”) for the perfect fit. Once the weather gets chillier, this will definitely be my go-to coat for fall outerwear!
If you’re on the hunt for a lighter weight, but still warm fall coat, this gray, wool-blend coat from H&M is a stylish, wallet-friendly option. While this coat is unlined, when worn with a sweater or a few layers, it adds the perfect amount of warmth for a cool fall day. At first, the length can feel a bit long, but if you pair it with high-heeled booties, it looks oh-so-chic! My favorite part of this coat is the belt because it adds the perfect definition to the waist area, which is usually lost during coat-wearing seasons.
Draper James Windowpane Anderson Cape
My favorite blogger, Julia Engel of Gal Meets Glam recently wore this beautiful plaid cape by Draper James and I became immediately obsessed. I’ve always been a fan of capes; they’re so feminine and fun, and this one is the perfect alternative to a fall coat. I absolutely love the gold buttons down the front because they add the perfect touch of glamour to the piece. If you’re on board with the cape trend, I also adore this one by Via Spiga, which comes in a neutral palette or burgundy hue, and is super cozy!
Outfit Details:
Coat: J.Crew Parke Topcoat in Dark Cognac
Blouse: Ann Taylor Perfect Shirt in White (my favorite button down of all-time!)
Jeans: rag & bone/Jean Capri in Rae
Booties: J.Crew Hadley Suede Boots in Pony Brown
Belt: Leopard Calf-Hair Belt
Necklace: J.Crew Gold Link Necklace (similar here)
Handbag: CHANEL CC Trendy in Camel (available at CHANEL Boutiques)
Sunglasses: J.Crew Sam Sunglasses in Tokyo Tortoise
Lipstick: Ilia Beauty Lipstick in Lucy’s Party (Credo Beauty just opened on Newbury Street!)
Nail Polish: OPI Big Apple Red
The A-Lyst is a Boston-based lifestyle blog curating the very best of style, beauty, food, and travel.