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Updated January 3rd, 2024: This article on the best wool coats for women was updated with new product picks for winter 2024, plus additional information on wool coat trends. We will continue to update this story throughout the winter season with editor testing notes.
Now that winter’s officially here, it’s time to swap your outerwear for the warmest wool coats as temperatures dip below freezing. Women’s winter coats are an obvious necessity in the colder months, but looking chic and styled can be effortless with a winning wool coat. The best wool coats for women provide protection and insulation from chilly temperatures, unlike a cotton trench coat or lightweight jacket, and play a distinct, fashion-forward role in a well-curated wardrobe.
“First and foremost, it comes down to warmth,” Maria McManus, Founder and Creative Director of namesake label Maria McManus, tells WWD. “Wool is just such a warm material to use, but I think there’s also wearability to wool. You can travel in it, you can throw it around, and it doesn’t crease as much.” Wool coats offer a sense of sophistication or dressiness, even over the most casual outfits, that other toppers can’t replicate. “You feel very put together and chic, but you’re also very comfortable,” McManus notes. “For me, there is very much a dichotomy. I like the juxtaposition of something that is masculine mixed with something feminine, so that’s how I approach outerwear.”
A wool coat is an investment, especially if you select one with a high-quality composition, but it’ll be so worth it, as it serves as your wardrobe workhorse throughout the frigid days. Whether you buy an ultra-luxe pure wool coat from The Row this winter, like Selena Gomez or Jennifer Lawrence, or you choose one blended with upcycled synthetic fibers from Woolrich or Everlane, it’s important to choose a wool coat style that has the ideal versatility within your fashion POV. Any warm coat is a worthy purchase for winter, but, while wool appears luxe and high-style, it doesn’t always come with a hefty price tag. Stylish wool coat brands like Mango, Calvin Klein, Everlane, and J. Crew offer staples that won’t break the bank or leave you shivering in the cold. The options are endless — there are shorter peacoats to ankle-skimming long wool coats, but overall, most styles on the market have a minimalist design that exudes quiet luxury.
Scroll on to see our guide to the best ladies’ wool coats that will take you from brisk afternoons to to cold winter nights in style. Plus, McManus shares helpful tips on what to consider when buying this effortlessly sharp topper.
Top Wool Coats of 2024
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Best Heritage Wool Coat
Lauren Ralph Lauren Houndstooth Check Wool Blend Coat
Size Range: 2-18
Colorways: Box Houndstooth
Fabric: 52% wool, 42% polyester, 6% other fibers
Special Features: Lined, back vent
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Looking for a classic women’s wool coat? There’s no brand better than Lauren Ralph Lauren for a timeless look to wear year after year. This style features warm tones in a quintessential houndstooth check, in a blend comprised of mostly wool and insulating polyester. Inspired by a classic riding jacket, the front button closure and minimal collar keep things looking smart, and welt pockets allow for stowing your phone, gloves, or even a small wallet. Wear yours with everything from a chunky turtleneck sweater and trousers for work, or with jeans and a Chelsea boot for weekend adventures. No matter how you style it, this coat will bring a classic spin to any outfit pairing.
What testers say: “This Houndstooth coat is AMAZING!! Perfect, accurate fit, true to size! Fully lined, deep front pockets! Makes me feel like a million bucks wearing it! I get so many compliments.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $250
Best Wool Cashmere Coat
Fleurette Presley Cashmere Coat
Size Range: 2-16
Colorways: Camel, black
Fabric: 100% cashmere
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Elevate your winter outerwear rotation with a luxurious cashmere wool coat. This option from Fleurette is understated and chic, with horn buttons, a stand collar, and crisp lines. The styling options are endless, thanks to its minimal design and next-level fabrication. Available in both camel and black colorways, this splurge-worthy, versatile cashmere coat will last you year over year.
Price upon publish date of this article: $1,499
Best Lightweight Wool Coat
Pendleton West End Belted Virgin Wool Blend Shirt Jacket
Size Range: XS-XL
Colorways: Navy plaid
Fabric: 75% virgin wool, 25% wool
Special Features: Removable tie belt
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
For over 100 years, Pendleton has been an American family-owned brand that’s known for their woven wool fabrics. The navy glen plaid print and simple, tailored shape of this 100% wool shirt jacket gives off a polished menswear vibe. However, it offers the option for a more relaxed, feminine fit, too, thanks to a removable tie belt to cinch your waist line. Style it with everything from a white T-shirt, straight-leg jeans, and Converse, to a sweater, trousers and ankle boots.
Price upon publish date of this article: $349
Best Shawl Collar Wool Coat
Harris Wharf London Volcano Pressed Wool Coat
Size Range: 36-48 IT
Colorways: Almond
Fabric: 100% virgin wool
Special Features: Made using a no-mulesing wool from South America and is AZO and REACH compliant.
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Harris Wharf is a contemporary brand that focuses on well-made tailoring. Their Volcano coat, a shawl collar design, offers a sophisticated take on outerwear. It consists of oversized lapels that drape smoothly across the front of the body, mimicking a shawl. This particular style of coat makes a great option when you need something more dressy to pull your look together. Whether it is an important business meeting or an evening cocktail event, lean on the shape for something with stylish flair.
Price upon publish date of this article: $950
Best Fuzzy Wool Coat
Blanknyc Plaid Lightweight Teddy Coat
Size Range: XS-L
Colorways: Red, brown
Fabric: 90% polyester, 10% wool
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
If you’re in the market for an extra cozy coat with insulating wool, Blanknyc’s teddy coat is like your favorite flannel — but so much warmer. It has a relaxed, oversized fit that’s ideal for thick layers, and comes in wintery plaid colorways of red and brown. Reviewers note that its sizing runs large, so grab it in a smaller size for a more streamlined fit, or lean into its fuzzy blanket appeal with thick knits and comfortable pants.
Price upon publish date of this article: $49.99
Best Wool Trench Coat
Sam Edelman Plaid Wool Blend Trench Coat
Size Range: 0-16
Colorways: Tan
Fabric: 95% polyester, 3% acrylic, 2% rayon
Special Features: Self-tie waist belt
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
When it comes to a trench coat, Sam Edelman’s wool blend iteration evokes high-style at an affordable price point. This versatile design comes in timeless tan plaid, with a removable tie waistband, notched lapels, and a longline fit. “It’s just such a classic item,” says McManus. “You look so pristine and put together in a trench coat, and no matter where you’re going, it will work with that occasion.” Whether paired with work classics like a crisp cotton shirt and pencil skirt, to a flowy dress for a night out, this is one style sure to become a wardrobe hero.
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
Best Cropped Wool Jacket
Staud Mini Carver Wool-Blend Cropped Coat
Size Range: XS-XL
Colorways: Orange plaid
Fabric: 70% wool, 30% synthetic fiber
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Neiman Marcus Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
This cropped wool coat from Staud gives us major Cher Horowitz vibes. It features a classic notched collar, side welt pockets, and a short hem that falls just above the waistline — perfect for styling with high-waisted jeans. Or, style this number à la Clueless with your favorite turtleneck or a cozy cashmere sweater, and stay extra warm with some preppy knee-high socks. Wool coats are basic? As if!
Price upon publish date of this article: $595
Best Green Wool Coat
Lamarque Thara Double-Faced Wool Coat
Size Range: XS-L
Colorways: Vibrant green
Fabric: Wool and polyester blend
Special Features: Long drop sleeves
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Green is one of those colors that’s in style every season, no matter the shade, but we’re seeing emerald and forest green wool coats trend ever since they walked Miu Miu’s fall 2023 runway. Lamarque’s green double-faced wool coat gives a polished finish to one of fashion’s favorite hues with a soft sloping shawl color and long drop sleeves. You can style this as a coat or a long cardigan, and pair with stomping lugged loafers and socks, sweet ballet flats, or knee-high boots for added warmth.
Price upon publish date of this article: $515
Best Plaid Wool Coat
Calvin Klein Notch Collar Double Breast Patch Pocket Jacket
Size Range: XXS-XXL
Colorways: Black multi plaid and black/white houndstooth
Fabric: 54% polyester, 46% wool
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Plaid coats are the bread and butter of fall wardrobes, but they surpass the season, too. Calvin Klein’s plaid coat is versatile enough to take you straight through fall and into the winter months with some easy styling twists. An everyday option that has plenty of flair, take your pick from two patterns, either a blown-up check or micro houndstooth. Mix and match the coat with your favorite wardrobe staples, like sweaters and pleated skirts, to fairisle knits and jeans.
What testers say: “The picture does this coat no justice. It is very beautiful,” one says. “Very nice and warm” and “Great deal for the price!!” another adds.
Price upon publish date of this article: $149.99
Best Wool Duster Coat
Sergio Hudson Boucle Coat
Size Range: 0-16
Colorways: Purple
Fabric: Shell: 53% wool mohair, 47% virgin wool; Lining: 91.5% silk, 8.5% Lycra.
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Make a statement in this gorgeous wool boucle coat from celeb-favorite designer Sergio Hudson. This duster coat goes all the way down to the ankles and is constructed with carefully placed darts to define the natural waistline. A long back slit will allow you to walk with ease, while a single button closure makes slipping this women’s designer wool coat on and off a breeze. The best part? The explosion of deep purple color will instantly cheer up the grayest of winter days. Try a full monochrome styling moment by wearing it with a purple blouse and trousers.
Price upon publish date of this article: $2,396
Best Structured Wool Coat
Avec Les Filles Double Breasted Coat
Size Range: XS-L
Colorways: Navy, red, charcoal
Fabric: 44% polyester, 36% wool, 13% acrylic, 4% nylon, 3% rayon
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Avec Les Filles is known for its impeccably crafted outerwear staples that are nothing short of basic. This sophisticated, tailored wool coat softly shapes the silhouette with peaked lapels and subtle shoulder pads. Don’t let its sharp darts fool you, because it’s constructed with a flexible wool blend that is comfortable and insulating for all kinds of occasions, whether you layer it atop a winter wedding guest dress or your favorite flared jeans.
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
Best Luxury Wool Coat
The Row Essentials Malika Belted Wool-Blend Felt Coat
Size Range: XS-XL
Colorways: Black
Fabric: 78% wool, 20% polyamide, 2% cashmere
Net-a-Porter Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
The Row is practically synonymous with “quiet luxury,” but this wool coat doesn’t whisper on warmth. The celebrity-founded and loved brand, spotted on likes of Hailey Bieber, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Lawrence, and Selena Gomez, excels in high-quality fabrication, as seen in this belted iteration that blends wool and cashmere. It wraps snug to the body like a wearable blanket, with a flattering cinched waist and a soft felt feel. Top it over anything from dressy workwear to your favorite sweats for a model-off-duty look.
Price upon publish date of this article: $2,850
Best Wool Coat with Hood
Woolrich Gentry Coat
Size Range: XXS-XL
Colorways: Black, green
Fabric: 63% wool, 33% polyester, 4% other fibers
Special Features: Oversized hood, archive check pattern
Woolrich is a staple wool coat brand for its reliably warm blends and classic styles. The Gentry Coat reimagines an archive check print, available in black or trendy green, and is topped with a handy oversized hood, which isn’t found in most wool coat styles. It also features a front button closure, two hand pockets, and a mid-length hem to block out cold winds.
Price upon publish date of this article: $469
Best Plus Size Wool Coat
Asos Design Curve Twill Wool Mix Coat
Size Range: 12-26
Colorways: Red
Fabric: 46% polyester, 44% acrylic, 4% nylon, 3% cotton, 2% viscose, 1% wool
Special Features: Twill texture
Asos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.2/5 stars
Winter trends are red-hot this year, and outwear is an easy-peasy way to incorporate the color into your daily style. This long wool coat from Asos Design’s Curve line features rustic twill texturing and peak lapels. Floor-length wool coats are a great way to block the blistering winds when the weather’s cold, and this option’s bold colorway is an instant outfit-maker, whether you’re wearing sweatpants or a fancy lace dress.
Price upon publish date of this article: $102
Best Long Wool Peacoat
Everlane Italian ReWool Long Peacoat
Size Range: XXS-XL
Colorways: Heathered black and camel
Fabric: Shell: 79% recycled wool, 11% recycled nylon, 8% recycled polyester, 2% other fibers. Lining: 100% recycled polyester.
Special Features: Made of premium recycled wool from Everlane’s partner mill in Italy and uses recycled trims and lining.
Everlane Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 3.9/5 stars
Everlane’s double-breasted coat has the look of a peacoat in a slightly longer and more oversized shape. Raglan sleeves offer even more volume to the overall silhouette and provide an easy layering solution for cold winter days when you need to wear your chunkiest knit. Choose from two classic colors, heathered black and camel, for a coat that will go with everything in your wardrobe. The best part is it is made from their signature ReWool fabric, ensuring that discarded wool garments get a second life in a new form.
What testers say: “The quality of this coat is amazing and I love the color,” one customer proclaimed. Another wrote, “The perfect chic coat. This coat keeps me surprisingly warm! I was hesitant with the polyester lining but it doesn’t affect heat regulation and polyester usually does for me.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $398
Best Wool Blazer
Theory Double-Breasted Blazer in Good Wool
Size Range: 00-16
Colorways: Black, navy
Fabric: 96% merino wool, 4% elastane
Special Features: Responsibly manufactured
This tailored number from Theory is made with responsibly sourced materials that create a slightly stretchy fit for all-day comfort. A black wool blazer is one of the most versatile pieces you can own, because it doubles as a two-in-one. McManus loves to style up her wool blazers as an outwear piece in the winter and play with its structured silhouette.
Price upon publish date of this article: $190
Best Wool Midi Coat
Mango Wool Double-Breasted Coat
Size Range: XXS-4XL
Colorways: Light gray, khaki, black
Fabric: Recycled polyester and wool mix
Special Features: Available in plus sizing
Mango perfects the art of affordable, high-quality outerwear season after season. The Wool Double-Breasted Coat comes in a versatile midi length, which falls at the mid-thigh and looks as sharp as your favorite blazer. It’s composed of polyester and 30 percent recycled wool for a super soft feel, and fronts simple button fastening, lapel notches, and flap pockets.
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Best Wool Coat with Fur Collar
J.Crew New Chateau Parka
Size Range: 00-24 US
Colorways: Midnight burgundy, dark forest, heather acorn,
Fabric: 80% wool, 20% nylon
Special Features: Available in classic, petite and tall sizes and crafted in a Fair Trade Certified™ facility.
Looking for the best camel wool coat or hooded wool coat? The J.Crew Chateau Parka is for you. It’s a bestselling style for J.Crew, having been a part of their outerwear offerings for a few seasons now. The swinging, A-line shape is both flattering and ideal for winter layering. The wool fabric is a J.Crew exclusive, inspired by stadium blankets, offering warmth without bulk and rated as “super warm” on their sliding scale. This option will be the choice for those below zero forecasts — it’s the warmest wool coat on our list. The finishing touches include a faux fur removable trim on the hood, gold hardware, and plenty of pockets to keep things looking modern.
What testers say: “This coat is so beautiful and the cut is incredibly flattering. Not to mention the details – from the various pockets (including a hidden inner pocket) and the silk lining that is the perfect accent color. This coat is so luxurious,” one five star review says.
Price upon publish date of this article: $192.50
Best Hybrid Wool Jacket
Toteme Draped Fringed Wool-Blend Jacket
Size Range: 32-40 DK
Colorways: Green, gray and dark gray
Fabric: 88% wool, 12% polyester
Special Features: Made from heavy and structured wool-blend felt certified by the Responsible Wool Standard.
Net-a-Porter Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Stockholm-based brand Toteme is known for its minimal designs and Scandi-chic approach to modern dressing. Their scarf jacket has created a bit of a buzz, regularly seen worn by street-style fashion alums and TikTok style stars alike. The two-in-one design offers the ease of a slouchy wool jacket combined with a built-in scarf for extra warmth. Contrast chain-stitching and fringe offer a fashion-forward element to the overall look. Layer yours with a favorite sweater and down liner for extra cold days with warm bottoms like leather pants or jeans. Dressed up or down, it is sure to make a statement.
Price upon publish date of this article: $1,010
Best Wool Robe Coat
& Other Stories Voluminous Belted Wool Coat
Size Range: XS-L
Colorways: Navy, black, gray, brown
Fabric: Wool 77%, polyamide 23%
Special Features: Self-tie belt
On chilly mornings, it’s extra hard to leave your cozy blanket behind in your bed. But with an oversized robe coat, you can prolong that snuggly feeling all day long. The Voluminous Belted Wool Coat by & Other Stories makes comfort look luxe, with soft, responsibly-sourced wool and a monochrome tie belt. It’s double-breasted for an added hint of tailoring and has concealed buttons to help trap heat. Whether you’re jet-setting or commuting to the office, this wool coat is great for on-the-go, because it serves a unique role as a wearable blanket with a fashion-forward flair.
Price upon publish date of this article: $329
Best Sustainable Wool Coat
Reformation Paley Double Breasted Coat
Size Range: XS-XL
Colorways: Black, cream
Fabric: 70% recycled MWool, 12% recycled polyamide, and 18% polyamide
Reformation Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.2/5 stars
Reformation is a stellar brand for sustainable outwear, like this Paley Double Breasted Coat. It’s constructed with 82 percent recycled material, including 70 percent recycled MWool that is unique for its zero-waste and fully circular production from pre-consumer scraps. This conscious option features all the classic elements of a staple wool coat, such as a notched lapel, side pockets, tortoise shell buttons, and a mid-calf hem.
Price upon publish date of this article: $398
Best Pink Wool Coat
J. Crew Daphne Top Coat
Size Range: 00-24
Colorways: Pink, yellow, camel, ivory, black
Fabric: 100% wool
Special features: Made of Italian boiled wool
The summer of Barbiecore may have come to a close, but as far as we’re concerned, pink is forever. There’s always room for a pop of the bubblegum hue, especially in those dreary days of winter. Look to J. Crew’s Daphne Top Coat to give you a pep in your step, all while keeping you toasty warm with a fabrication of 100 percent Italian merino wool. Its clean lines let the punchy color do all the talking, along with notched lapels, welt pockets, and a hem that sits just above the knee.
Price upon publish date of this article: $146.50
Best Wool Coat for Petites
Gap Recycled Wool Wrap Coat
Size Range: XS-L, available in regular, petite, and tall sizing
Colorways: Black, gray, brown
Fabric: Recycled wool and polyester
Gap Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
Those with petite frames know that it can be tricky to find a warm jacket that doesn’t feel like it’s swallowing you whole. You always want plenty of room to layer when the temperatures drop below freezing, but a well-fitting silhouette is paramount for effortless style appeal. Gap’s wool coat is available in petite sizing, along with regular and tall options, and falls just below the knee for full-body warmth. Its straight yet relaxed fit looks soft and smooth, due to an innovative blend of recycled wool and polyester. Style this topper with a long-sleeve bodysuit and a midi skirt for crisp fall days, or layer it with your best sweater and wide-leg jeans in the winter.
Price upon publish date of this article: $90
Best Funnel neck Wool Coat
Wilfred The Cacoon Coat
Size Range: XXS-XXL, available in regular and tall sizing
Colorways: White, light gray, camel, green, black, dark brown, and more
Fabric: 78% virgin wool, 12% polyamide, 10% cashmere
For a more shapely option, the Wilfred Cacoon Coat offers a curved, fixed collar that’ll help to block out the cold. While it appears lightweight, it’s offers excellent insulation power as its designed to withstand temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit or -10 Celsius. The coat is tailored from Italian-sourced virgin wool, supple cashmere, and is lined with vegan chamois to aid in warmth and block wind. The hidden side pockets are especially chic, as they seamlessly flow into the streamlined silhouette, while princess seaming through the front makes for an ultra-flattering fit.
Price upon publish date of this article: $328
Wool Coat Trends for 2024
Wool coats have been a wardrobe staple for decased, but silhouettes and trending shapes are constantly evolving. Long, draping wool coats are always a style statement, and they serve as very effective outerwear too, as they cover the entire length of the body and act as a second layer of insulation from your neck to your ankles. We spotted floor-length wool coats skimming the fall and winter 2023 runways of Valentino, Stella McCartney, and Chloé, styled with everything from trousers, sheer pants, mini skirts and boots, chunky knits, and sleek slip dresses.
Tailored wool coats evoke a menswear twist, which is especially flattering juxtaposed over feminine frocks. Sharper shapes, exaggerated shoulder pads, and clean architecture are all trending in wool, as seen on the most prominent runways, such as Bottega Veneta and Miu Miu, in blazer cuts and embellished with toggles and defined lapels. Meanwhile at Versace, wool coats cinched at the waist and ballooned in the shoulders offer a fluid take in feminine shaping. Saint Laurent, which has always broken boundaries between men’s suiting and womenswear, showed magnified shoulder pads that were echoed by pointy pumps.
Wool is also taking a colorful turn. We love that a vibrant hue can brighten up the gray winter in wool, as it’s an effortless style technique that breaks up essential neutrals and injects more personality to any ensemble. From forest green at Miu Miu, hot Barbie pink at Phillip Plein, and cherry red from Valentino, designer wool coats are tasting the rainbow for winter 2024. But if you prefer a more classic tone, caramel-colored camel and warm browns are the most timeless wool coat colorways. The buttery beige tones of summer’s “quiet luxury” trend are still whispering wealth into winter, as they walked in monochrome outfits or were juxtaposed with soft charcoal at Miu Miu, and clean creams engulfed ensembles from Loewe and The Row.
On the streetstyle front, classic wool coats are always in fashion, but celebs are giving them modern spin with their stylings. Need inspo? It’s always a good idea to follow Rihanna‘s cues. She was spotted in October wearing a charcoal wool coat that practically skimmed the floor, and it served as her entire ensemble. She paired it with a red Bottega Veneta pouch bag for pop, along with block sunglasses, and sleek point-toe booties. Or, look to Hailey Bieber, who’s known for her menswear-inspired blazer styling to the likes of Princess Diana, and give your long camel wool coat a downtown twist for daytime with a sporty ballcap, hot pants, and trendy ballet flats. And, if you’re still living in Barbie World, so is Syndey Sweeney, to which she stepped out in monochrome styling, wearing an on-trend pink midi wool coat from Miu Miu atop a mini dress with sweet satin heels for a night out.
What to Look for in the Best Wool Coats for Women
- The different types of wool: First and foremost, always check the fabric content labels to determine a coat’s material contents and wool quality. For sensitive skin types, 100 percent wool can be irritative, so it’s a good idea to look for a blended wool, perhaps something with a touch of cashmere. For others, McManus advises that any label that notes 100 percent wool is your best bet; however, not all wool is made the same. Wool is a sustainable, animal-derived insulating material, so it will differ in feel and warmth depending on where it’s sourced. If you find yourself wondering “Why wool coats are expensive” or are “100 percent wool coats worth it?,” here’s the knitty-gritty (pun intended):
- Cashmere: Cashmere is regarded as an ultra-luxe type of wool. It is combed from the cashmere goat, rather than sheered, and provides a super soft, lightweight feel in coats. It’s typically used in designer fashion because the goats only produce a limited amount of wool per year, making it more expensive and highly coveted. Choose cashmere wool or a cashmere blend if you have sensitive skin, as it’s smooth to the touch and will never feel scratchy.
- Camel hair: While many wool coats come in warm brown tones, camel hair wool is naturally colored. It’s essentially the fur of the camel, which comes in layers: the guard hair, a coarse and protective layer, and the undercoat, which is shorter per fiber and much softer. Guard hair is often woven into blends, while undercoat hair is less durable but offers more insulation value. If you’re looking for high-quality durability, look for camel blends — the natural color serves as a timeless neutral too.
- Angora: Angora wool is sourced from angora rabbits, making for a soft, lightweight, and fluffy weave in coats. It’s often used in luxe knitwear, but is also commonly seen in wool coats from designers like Prada for a supple and silky-smooth look. Similar to cashmere, it’s more costly because the animal it’s derived from is small, so there are less fibers collected per sheer. While Angora is one of the most insulating types of wool (ideal for frigid winters), it’s not naturally elastic, so it’s often found in wool blends for comfort and wearability.
- Lamb: Lamb wool is naturally hypoallergenic, so its best for those who have allergies, asthma, or sensitive skin. It’s derived from sheep younglings in their first-ever sheering session, so it’s incredibly pure and soft. It’s naturally elastic, which makes for smooth and flexible outerwear weaves. You can count on it for warmth, given that it’s grown to protect a seven-months-old sheep from its first winter.
- Herringbone: Herringbone wool refers a broken twill weave that creates a “V”-shaped pattern, to which its name harkens back to the herring fish with a similar fishbone distinction. It’s often found in tweed fabrications and men’s suiting, and, because of its tight weave, it’s very durable in harsh winters. Herringbone wool is also naturally flame retardant and hypoallergenic.
- Shetland: Shetland wool is sourced from sheep that live in the Shetland Islands of Scotland. Often used in knits, it’s beloved for its durability, softness, and lightweight fleece feel. It’s unique for its highly elastic crimp texture and its ability to be gently washed in a washing machine; Over time and use, the weave will “bloom,” meaning that the fibers will naturally fill in gaps, balancing the texture, and further blend in color.
- Bouclé: Bouclé yarn weaves are a major “quiet luxury” trend across furniture and fashion, including outerwear essentials like sweaters, scarves, and wool coats. It offers a non-traditional loop pattern that’s plush and soft to the touch. So, if you’re looking to add a touch of textural intrigue that won’t irritate the skin, choose a bouclé coat in a warm wool blend.
- Chenille: Similar to bouclé weaves, chenille is a silky-soft yarn that is often blended with wool for increased insulation. It’s most often made with cotton, however designers may also create the yarn using silk, rayon, or pure wool for more insulation. Chenille often feels sumptuous like velvet, with a natural satin finish.
- Design details: Details like linings are important when shopping for wool outerwear. If you do have sensitivities, a coat with a lining will generally solve that problem, as linings provide an additional protective barrier between your skin and the fabric. Other details to look for include zippers, buttons (depending on your closure preference), hoods for stormy weather, and, of course, functional pockets.
- Price: When shopping for a wool coat, you will notice the price for wool varies on the content percent and also its origin. If a fabric is a 50/50 blend, mixed with polyester or another synthetic material, it will most likely cost less than the 100% wool offerings. Pricing is also determined by the types of wool listed below, as some are more limited or coveted, like cashmere or angora. If your budget doesn’t lend itself to a luxury coat, look to wool coat brands that use wool blends or recycled wool. Not only are these more sustainable, they also offer a great way to enjoy a higher quality fabric for less.
The Different Types of Women’s Wool Coats
- Wool Robe Coat: Robe coats are generally defined by their wrap quality, oversized silhouette, and, naturally, a fabric belt or sash for closure. “I find the wrap [or robe] coat really useful because it’s more oversized,” McManus says. “So if I’m wearing a blazer, which I am currently wearing, I can put the wrap coat over it when I need more warmth.” A great layering piece, the robe coat is both stylish and cozy. “It’s super chic, and it’s almost like a bathrobe, really comfortable. You throw it on, but it also fits over more garments if you need to layer up,” McManus adds.
- Double-Breasted Wool Coat: Another “borrowed from the boys” silhouette, a double-breasted coat features an overlapping front closure, displaying two parallel rows of buttons. This classic menswear shape can be cut in every coat length from above knee to mid-calf, blazer and even cropped. Many double-breasted wool coats will also showcase welt pockets on the front of the garment. “I think a lot of women are afraid of double-breasted,” McManus explains. “But I find the more I work one-on-one with clients, they’re so surprised at how flattering it is once they try it.”
- Wool Peacoat: What was once an outerwear piece defined by military style and the naval guard, today’s peacoat is a silhouette that is about as classic as they come. Since its origin, this shape has been produced with thicker wool materials, often in a navy colorway. Defined by a boxy, double-breasted shape, it’s shorter in cut, hitting just below the belt line. Most peacoat’s buttons showcase anchor motifs or other nautical-inspired details. Other modern-day details include quilted linings or detachable hoods for even more added warmth.
- Wool Trench Coat: Another shape with military ties, the trench coat’s name was literally inspired by the British army who wore them during World War I, quite literally in the trenches. Generally made in some form of cotton, the traditional trench coat was more lightweight and wouldn’t hold up as well in winter weather. Today, designers have drawn inspiration from the iconic shape, but have begun producing it in wool for the colder months of the year. “I think [wool] tends to help you look more put together,” McManus explains. “A cotton trench coat might possibly look a little rumpled if you get off an airplane, where a wool coat will tend to hold up and just look as pristine as when you got on the subway in the morning to when you sat down to your meeting.”
- Wool Blazer Coat: A blazer offers plenty of styling capabilities, thanks to its shorter cut, but when made from a warmer wool fabric, it doesn’t have to be strictly for the boardroom. “It’s very versatile,” McManus says. “You can wear it as an inner piece or an outer piece.” Look for an oversized fit or something with extra weight that can be layered effortlessly, from those seasonally warm days to a brisker drop in temps at night.
Some of the Best Wool Coat Brands to Check Out
There’s a wealth of warm wool coat brands to shop at every price point in a range of styles. While luxury wool coats are your best bet for soft materials and reliable warmth, there are plenty of affordable wool coat brands that deliver on those winter-ready qualities too.
- Woolrich: Woolrich is an American heritage wool brand that has stood the test of time, as its founding dates all the way back to 1830. Self-proclaimed “The Original Outdoor Clothing Company,” the brand has mastered wool design that are durable enough to face the elements, while also being comfortable for daily wear. Its coats have been worn from the Arctic to the New York City streets, with consistently premium materials and high-quality design details, such as signatures like the Buffalo Check and its pioneered Parka style.
- Pendleton: Pendleton first opened its wool mill in 1909, which stands today as the last few remaining woolen mills in the world. The Oregon-founded outwear brand defined Pacific Northwest outerwear, from jacquard texturing, to plaid patterns, and smooth solids knits woven on looms. Throughout its heritage, the brand has always boasted their use of 100 percent virgin wool, which is made possible by its long-standing relationship with local and global sheep ranchers. Each Pendleton coat is hand-finished with soft napping and careful cuts, evoking true craftsmanship in every detail.
- The Row: Among the most expensive wool coat designers, The Row specializes in super soft cashmere and wool blends that are well worth the investment. It’s a newer name in the fashion lexicon, as it was founded it 2006, but it’s quickly become a breakout star in understated outwear with minimalist sensibilities. The brand particularly specializes in fine tailoring, timeless styles, and the utmost quality, all of which are essential in designing the best wool coats for women.
- Everlane: Founded in 2010, Everlane set off to provide timeless, stylish apparel utilizing sustainable production processes at an affordable price. Its selection of outwear is largely constructed with recycled materials, from polyester to nylon and even wool. The brand is committed to “radical transparency” to empower customers with information that explains the price of their high-quality and ethical material sourcing, of which is guaranteed in every coat.
- Mango: Mango is an editor-favorite for reliable and affordable outwear. The Spanish-founded brand increasingly invites sustainable materials with every new release, including sustainably-sourced cotton and recycled polyester, as well as circular designs that can be recycled after their use. Mango prioritizes versatile function above all, offering the range of wool coat styles, from Double-Breasted iterations to handmade wrap styles.
- Aritzia: The Aritzia-exclusive brand Wilfred offers the “quiet luxury” aesthetic at an affordable price point, with timeless styles that make for wardrobe staples. The brand’s blazers, jackets, and wool coats deliver on premium material design, whether in luxe virgin wool and cashmere blends, which feel soft against the skin and protect against the cold, or in boiled merino wool and recycled wool constructions.
How We Selected the Best Women’s Wool Coats
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
To curate the best wool coats for women, we interviewed a style industry expert for selections and recommendations. Our expert also provided knowledge on wool coat construction, long-term care, and key elements to look out for when shopping for a wool coat. We selected the best ladies’ wool coats based on emerging trends, new releases, cult-favorite brands, and top-quality fabrication and comfort for chilly weather. We also considered wide research in the outwear market, including comparisons of customer review quotes, innovative fabric usage, inclusive sizing and our own wool coat product testing. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Expert
Maria McManus was born in Dublin, Ireland and has lived in Europe, Japan, South East Asia and Australia, and finally settled in New York. During her 20+ years working in the fashion industry, Maria grew increasingly alarmed at fashion’s detrimental impact on the environment and so in 2020 she started Maria McManus: an eponymous collection of meticulously designed clothing, created with the lowest environmental impact.
Meet the Author
Kristina Rutkowski is a New York-based freelance writer and editor focusing on fashion. She was previously the Senior Fashion Market Editor at InStyle, covering everything trends and shopping. She has also worked in the fashion departments at Self and Glamour. Her bylines have appeared on Vogue.com, TheZoeReport.com, VanityFair.com, and InStyle.com. Editing fashion throughout her career, she has been able to see, try and research the best brands available today. Thus, she’s well-versed in shopping all the best trends and pieces online — from wool coats to winter essentials and beyond.
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content across fashion, beauty, footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Cigliano received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She is currently based in New York City. She updated this story for the best wool coats in January 2024 with new product picks, plus additional information on this season’s wool coat trends.