The Best Winter Coats & Jackets…From Someone Who Lives in Extreme Cold!

Warmest Coats and Jackets for Winter

For those of you who don’t know, I grew up in Watertown, New York. Chris jokingly calls it, the North Pole. When you Google it, you’ll see that it’s only 30 miles from the Canadian border! So…I can confidently tell you, I really know cold. Not just below-freezing temperatures, but ‘below-ZERO temperatures with negative, double-digit wind chills’ temperatures! Now, I live in Telluride, Colorado where it isn’t quite Watertown-cold…but it’s still pretty darn cold. I think you get the picture. I know from firsthand experience what extreme cold is like and how to stay warm.

But, in order to stay warm, you don’t have to look like the Michelin man and sacrifice style. I firmly believe you can have both. Below, I’m sharing some of the best and warmest winter coats and jackets for real cold weather that are also stylish! If you live in a cold climate, you will love this list. Even if you don’t, you may still benefit especially if you plan to travel to a chilly place.

BTW, if you’re interested in how to layer your clothes step-by-step, in order to stay warm, make sure you read this post.

#1 | Herno Puffer Jacket

Herno is a Telluride-mom favorite that I originally found out about from one of the local boutiques here. You know that if it’s sold in the local boutiques of a ski town…it’s legit warm! It’s a very luxurious, Italian brand that makes beautiful, lightweight puffers that are chic, effortless, and perfect for layering (but warm enough on their own too!). They’re a little pricey, but if you live in a cold climate or frequently visit a cold climate, it’s worth investing in a coat that’s actually warm that you’ll wear every single year!

This puffer is a really pretty taupe color that’s different than the usual black and gray puffers you see everywhere during the winter. It’s super warm, lightweight, drapes beautifully, and is great for layering. The funnel neck helps to keep your neck warm, and I love the longer length for keeping my legs and butt warm. The overall fit is slimmer, so you don’t get that Michelin Man look, but it still creates shape and has some forgiveness. One sizing note, the sleeves have a slimmer fit.

This is the perfect jacket to wear if the weather is a little iffy and you’re not sure if the sun is going to come out. Or if you naturally run hot and just prefer a lighter jacket. I’m wearing a size 38 and it runs true to size.

#2 | Herno Black Puffer

I wanted to share a more traditional, longer black puffer coat as well. This one is also by Herno and has all of the same wonderful qualities of the first puffer…luxurious, lightweight yet warm, easy to layer, and a longer length for maximum warmth. This has a zipper instead of snaps like the previous jacket…so it’s easier to get on and off if that’s something that’s important to you. I’m wearing a 38 in this coat as well. This coat comes with a glam faux fur collar too (not pictured).

Shop more by Herno here.

#3 | SAM. New York Puffer

Next up is a brand and jacket I’ve been featuring for years…Sam. New York! I own multiple pieces and they’re all super stylish and warm. If you want a super modern and versatile, everyday puffer jacket check out Sam. All of their pieces have stylish and unique details like a shiny finish, shearling or leather accents, belted waist, etc. This short navy puffer is so warm I’ve even skied in it! It’s wind-resistant, water repellent, and the stand collar keeps your neck warm. I love the navy, but it comes in 9 other colors. It’s 2-3x thicker than the Herno puffers so that’s a consideration if you’re interested in layering. I’m wearing a small and it runs true to size.

Shop more by Sam. here.

White Fringe Sweater

Underneath these coats and jackets, I’m wearing a super cute sweater by Milly. I love the cropped length, which is perfect with high-waisted jeans (especially if you have a shorter torso). I also love the fun fringe texture that’s very on-trend right now. I’m wearing a small and it runs true to size. Sizing note: do not order this if you have a long torso.

#4 | Faux Fur Coat

If you want to add some drama to your winter coat collection, along with next level coziness and warmth, go with a faux fur coat! You may remember this coat from this post where I featured two gorgeous holiday outfits. I also included it in the Holiday Capsule Wardrobe! This gorgeous faux fur coat by Milly is SO glam. The faux fur feels real, the fit is great, the color is stunning, and it’s really warm! Walking around in this coat would make a serious statement (in a good way!). It also comes in hot pink and emerald green. I’m wearing a size small.

I also love the brand Apparis for faux fur coats and jackets.

#5 | Sam Edelman Coat 

How beautiful is this Sam Edelman coat?! I love the gold buttons and that it looks more like a blazer than a coat. The military-inspired look is very chic and sophisticated. I also love the length. This is a great option for any of you who live in warmer winter climates like Texas. It’s pretty, but it’s lightweight and not meant for extreme cold. If you are going to wear it in extreme cold, I recommend wearing a lightweight puffer (like the Herno puffer jackets!) or a really warm cashmere sweater underneath. I’m wearing a size 4 and it runs TTS.

AG Jeans

These AG jeans are a pair I’ve had for almost two years and LOVE! They have a more relaxed straight-leg fit, making them a great option if you’re interested in trying out the more relaxed-fit jean trend going on right now. They’re also just a really great basic to have in your closet!

See by Chloe Booties

On my feet, I’m wearing a pair of lug-sole, shearling-lined booties by See by Chloe. These have been GREAT this winter! They’re really nice to just slip on and go get the kids from the bus or run a quick errand. I don’t even need socks, I just slip them on and go. They’re also very cozy and the rubber sole means I don’t slip on the ice or snow. They run true to size, get your normal shoe size.

More Saks Favorites

If you still haven’t found the perfect coat for you from my picks above, be sure to check out Saks Fifth Avenue’s winter fashion shop here. I was also given the opportunity to put together a “BUSBEE STYLE” curated shop on SaksFifthAvenue.com. If you have a minute, I would really appreciate it if you stopped by the shop to support me.

Huge thank you to Saks Fifth Avenue for sponsoring this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter to receive some incredible style resources. If you’re interested, I recently launched my Style Made Simple course. You can start your style journey and learn more here.

Thank you SO much for stopping by!