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 gave dozens of new winter coats a spin to bring you their edit of the ones that are truly worth investing in.

The chilly season is officially upon us, and the demand to bundle up, take cover and shield yourself from the elements is the necessary step to keep the turbulent weather at bay. Not to say you have to retreat and hide indoors entirely. It is possible to wrap up, step out and look suitably stylish, too. Cashmere knitwear is one way to do this, as is cute, cosy accessories such as hats, gloves and scarves. However, I would argue to say that the best way to stay warm and stylish for winter is to invest in a winter coat which suits your needs, budget and your aesthetic requirements, whilst perfectly slipping into your existing capsule wardrobe. Not only will a great coat complete your look, it will make it.

For this instalment of We Try Before You Buy, Who What Wear UK's host of (very picky, very style-conscious!) in-house editors have turned their beady eyes to winter coats, and winter coats only. We have been road-testing a wide array of styles, from classic wool, silky shearling, faux-fur alternatives, leather pieces and some key trending pieces of the moment, so that you can get the full scoop before even considering adding to your basket. We gave a plethora of high-street and luxury styles a whirl, picking only our favourites, which we know are worth your time and hard-earned money. Are you ready to upgrade your coat for winter 2025? Read on to see and shop the very best winter coats that get the Who What Wear UK stamp of approval. Happy shopping and stay warm!

1. The Leather Coat

"I'm currently in the midst of curating an enduring capsule wardrobe composed of pieces that are truly timeless. Instantly, this Toteme coat fit right in. With a nod to the classic trench via the beige colourway, double-breasted silhouette and belted waist, the style of the coat will surely be one to reach for year after year. True to form, Toteme brings a contemporary update via the supple leather finish and collarless design, which features ruching on the back that ensures every angle of this coat is eye-catching. Harmoniously balancing classic features and current detailing is what Toteme does best, and this coat is a perfect example of that." Florrie Alexander, Shopping Editor.

Pros: Looks great layered up with knits or worn simply over a classic t-shirt.
Cons: The sleeve length is quite long, and it will need careful storage to avoid creasing.

Shop the Toteme Collarless Leather Coat Rye:

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2. The Mandarin Coat

"When considering the coat of the season, Róhe is front of mind for me. Ever since I first saw its Mandarin jacket—a shorter version of this one that comes in grey, black, cream and in wool, leather or linen—I've found myself yearning for its place in my wardrobe. This full length coat version however, is like its smarter, more professional older sister. It still has the signature toggle ties, something that makes this coat a touch different to your standard black coat, but its dramatic length feels somehow more grown up. Whatever you have below it, be it jeans and a white t-shirt, or a satin gown for a special event during party season, this coat will elevate it like nothing else." Rebecca Rhys-Evans, Acting Deputy Editor.

Pros: Being long and black makes it feel timeless and effortless (name me a better combo!), I really think this style although a trending piece, will age with me and my wardrobe.
Cons: Despite loving the toggle ties, they do make it a little trickier to wear open.

Shop the Róhe Mandarin Wool Coat:

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3. The Faux-Fur Coat

"Finding a winter coat is an art. When sourced well, this is a piece that will survive all season long and see you through every weather-related trial and outfit-association tribulation winter throws at you. In turn, the quest to uncover the style that you can wear with nearly everything else you own can be as arduous as navigating peak-hour congestion on the underground. In the past, this journey has led me to everything from Saville Row-inspired boxy Herringbone tailored coats to something you would find in Penny Lane’s wardrobe from Almost Famous. For 2025, I’ve leaned slightly more towards the latter with a shaggy faux fur midi coat from & Other Stories. To me, the textured fabric reminds me of something you’d find on a yeti, which is perfect for the frost-bitten months on the horizon. But better still, it’s a dead ringer for something the Olsen Twins would’ve worn while stalking around New York during the mid-2000s. Just get me an oversized Starbucks cup and anti-paparazzi-flash-sunglasses, and I’ve got my cold-weather uniform sorted." Ava Gilchrist, SEO Writer.

Pros: The cut is generously oversized, meaning you can easily layer underneath it without worrying about overheating. (Or worse, feeling constricted!).

Cons: The style is button-less, which certainly gives it that chic collarless effect but also doesn’t help when you want to shield against the frigid wind.

Shop the & Other Stories Faux-Fur Midi Coat:

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4. The Classic Wool Coat

"When shopping for my next investment buy, I am always keen to keep things simple, classic and pared-back, with key pieces which will seamlessly slip into my curated wardrobe. This method is true for coats and jackets also, and my eye always naturally gravitates towards styles that hark back to classic, heritage shapes. Lucky for me, this bestselling Lori coat from my favourite brand, Whistles, is back in stock, just in time for winter. Structured, long-line, double-breasted, and in a true black tone, this is the kind of coat I know I will be wearing all through till February and for years to come." Emily Post, Graphic Designer.

Pros: Classic, heavy fabric, wool-blend.
Cons: I wish it was made of 100% wool.

Shop the Whistles Lori Coat:

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5. The Luxury Shearling Coat

"When hunting around for a new winter coat, I knew I wanted something fuzzy, luxe and very warm. Nour Hammour is the brand on every fashion insider's lips of late, and so I naturally gravitated to their line of premium shearling styles, which are setting the benchmark of chic, high-quality coats and jackets now. I opted for their Elsa piece, which is a mid-length coat in a lustrous shearling, complete with snap closures, a short funnel-neck and tie waist, which comes in a decadent shade of marbled chocolate brown. This is the type of jacket that can take you from more casual daytime looks (i.e. a cashmere sweater, indigo jeans and pointed flats), or draped over a chic evening look, such as fine merino knitwear, tailored trousers and heeled boots. This coat gives old-school, classic Carolyn Bessette Kennedy energy, who is the ultimate style reference. Regarding sizing, I'm typically a size UK10. I took this coat in a size XS, as it is oversized and I wanted a more tailored, cinched-in look." Sophie Watson, Acting Fashion Editor.

Pros: Premium quality, 100% lambskin shearling and timeless in style.
Cons: High price-point, but the quality reflects this. It is a true investment piece.

Shop the Nour Hammour Elsa Coat:

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6. The Khaki Coat

"For me, finding the perfect winter coat is something I take incredibly seriously. Existing in a perpetual state of cold, there's nothing I desire more than a cosy silhouette which oozes chic, whilst feeling like I’ve taken my bed with me. Skewing taller than most, when looking to invest, I tend to gravitate towards sweeping maxi styles which work perfectly with my 5’10 height, typically in a muted winter neutral. Reiss' sumptuous olive coat took my fancy, which is a departure from the taupe, beige and biscuit tones I normally go for. With a trench-like silhouette, the plushy brushed wool offers both comfort and structure, which is a combination that rivals my home comforts. In an elevated green shade (which is fast becoming one of this winter’s defining colours) the hue felt both complementary on my complexion and quietly festive. Finished with tortoiseshell buttons and a matching belt, this coat was nothing short of sublime, and for the first time in months, I found myself looking forward to the chillier days." Imani-Nia Francis-Tsolaki, Junior Fashion Editor.

Pros: Plush, cosy, warm and in a modern olive hue.
Cons: Dry-clean only, but it is a premium 100% wool fabric.

Shop the Reiss Atelier Khaki Wool Coat:

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7. The Funnel-Neck Coat

"As much as funnel-neck coats are seriously trending right now, I think they have firmly cemented their status as a classic outerwear style. Having reported on their ascension this autumn, winter is where they really come to the fore. HUSH are on the money with their double-faced wool options, and the high funnel-neck will be sure to keep my neck warm and my hair suitably protected from the blustery winds of London this season. I opted for a navy style, as I find black coats are heavy in tone, and this deep navy pairs well with jeans and leather accessories for that Parisienne look and feel." Natalie Munro, News Writer.

Pros: Chic navy tone, 100% soft wool, ankle-length and good for tall dressers.
Cons: Not structured, and dry clean only.

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8. The Wrap Coat

“I was drawn to this double-faced wool coat from The White Company because it delivers exactly what I’m looking for: clean lines, a refined silhouette and real quality that doesn’t shout. As someone who has a fairly classic sense of style, I value pieces that quietly stand the test of time, not just the current season's hype. The fabric has that nicely substantial feel and the belt wrap style adds polish without fuss. I’ve long admired The White Company for creating wardrobe foundations that feel elevated yet perfectly wearable, so this coat isn’t just a 2025 treat, it’s a considered investment. I know it will slip effortlessly into everything from tailoring to weekend knitwear, and stay relevant far beyond the colder months.” Humaa Hussain, Junior Branded Content Editor.

Pros: Feels cosy, like a blanket, warm and neutral in tone.
Cons: Lacks structure, but this is good for off-duty dressing.

Shop The White Company Double-Faced Wool Coat:

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9. The Scarf Coat

"What better way to face the chilly winter days ahead than coat with a scarf included? 'IYKYK' label Róhe have been offering this style for a few seasons now, and I thought it was high time to give their signature outerwear piece a spin. I picked the soft, grey melange tone, which pairs well with black, chocolate browns and winter white hues (my AW25 palette of choice). The scarf attachment is a little fiddly to get the hang of initially, but throw caution to the wind and let it fall over your shoulders gently and fluidly. The wind will pick it up and bring the drama! It's a wealth-whispering show-stopper, if you ask me." Sophie Watson, Acting Fashion Editor.

Pros: Scarf attachment allows for extra styling options, no need for extra accessories!
Cons: Needs extra attention to get the scarf to fall nicely, but you will get the hang of it.

Shop the Róhe Signature Scarf Coat:

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10. The Cape Coat

"I never imagined I’d find myself waxing lyrical about a cape coat, but here we are. ME+EM’s swing cape in espresso is, quite genuinely, the epitome of chic. As someone who’s 5'2", I assumed the volume would overwhelm me, but it did the exact opposite. It hits that rare balance of oversized and refined—structured enough to hold its shape, but with a nonchalant, effortless sway that feels incredibly expensive. I love it!" Marina Avraam, Senior Shopping Editor.

Pros: Great for petites, it creates shape rather than swallowing you.
Cons: Not the warmest option for the coldest days, you’ll need layers underneath.

Shop the ME+EM Curved Seam Cape Coat:

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11. The White Coat

"I never thought I needed a white coat, but this one has me completely sold. The Frankie Shop is a destination for staple pieces, and the Gaia is exactly that. It's a coat that would live in my wardrobe forever. At 5’9”, this was a great length on me (but potentially a warning for shorter dressers!). I love the boxy shoulders and oversized fit and it really feels like I could throw this over anything and it would look put-together. Yes, it’s an investment but when it comes to outerwear, spending a little more on good quality is worth it in the long run. Let me wear this coat all winter and live out my Hallmark Christmas movie dreams." Megan Storey, Social Media Editor.

Pros: Classic shape, structured shoulders, cool, oversized silhouette.
Cons: Needs careful handling, dry clean only, not one for the tube!

Shop The Frankie Shop Gaia Coat:

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12. The Teddy Coat

“If money were no object, I’d already own Max Mara’s Teddy Bear Icon Coat. It’s cloud-soft, luxuriously heavy, impeccably made and the perfect layer to snuggle up in. I’d wear it with basically everything; it would even make trackies and Crocs look chic. Yes, it’s a lot of money, but you’d wear it forever, and it would never go out of style.” Georgia Seago, Copy Editor.

Pros: Super warm, a modern classic, natural tone which suits everyone.
Cons: High price-point, but this is reflected in the quality and fabric.

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13. The Shearling Coat

"When the temperatures drop, I immediately look to Whistles to kit out my winter wardrobe. I've been on the hunt for a statement coat that would keep me warm and this furry option ticks all of the boxes. The super soft shearling pairs well with a dressed down outfit but could also easily elevate an ensemble, which is perfect for the party season!" Jerrylyn Saguiped, Client Success Manager.

Pros: Eye-catching olive colour, but this makes it stand out, soft shearling fabric.
Cons: High price, but this piece is 100% shearling.

Shop the Whistles Tamina Shearling Coat:

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