Debating to puffer or not to puffer, Marta Bueno Arcos looks into the black puffer coat, considering their functionality and feeding readers a few other options in the face of our “baltic” Irish climate!
Let’s be honest, Irish weather - especially in winter, can be quite harsh; constant lashing rain soaking us on the way to class paired with weather alerts for wind speeds that threaten to blow us away at the bus stop. It’s no wonder that the classic black puffer coat, warm and easy to match, is the popular choice when it comes to winter coats. But they’ve been criticised because they can be perceived as kind of basic! While there’s nothing wrong with sticking to comfort, so many other choices that are just as warm exist and they are much more stylish! So, if you could be intrigued by other options, here are a few ideas of essentials you should consider!
If you want a true winter staple in your wardrobe, try an overcoat! A classic for a reason, these incredibly versatile pieces can be dressed up or down, despite their classy appearance, style with boots and jeans for an everyday look! They reach below the knee and are typically made of wool, so they’re sure to keep you as warm as the puffiest of puffer coats! Black, navy and grey are the true neutrals for overcoats, but if you’d like to really make a statement and attach your entire personality to a coat, may I suggest a checked or plaid design? The prints themselves are timeless, and if the colors are neutral, it’s as easy to style as any solid color coat.
It’s modern, it’s warm, and it reinvents a classic trench into a contemporary Irish winter resistant coat!
Peacoats, whether new or vintage, are an amazing winter staple too! If you prefer a more straightforward cut in your coats, peacoats are shorter than the overcoat, hitting mid-thigh. They’re usually made from wool as well, and give a classic look with a more versatile cut.
If you’d like a sleeker, more modern option, definitely consider a technical trench coat! It’s the modern version of the classic trench, as it uses water-repellent fabrics and has features like sealed seams and often a built-in hood. It’s modern, it’s warm, and it reinvents a classic trench into a contemporary Irish-winter-resistant coat.
So, with these stylish options in mind, the question is, are black puffer coats over?
Honestly? A longer puffer coat, while not the most unique, is an amazing piece to protect your fashionable outfit underneath! So, if you still love the puffer coat look and warmth, then make it your own! You can always choose a different color or style that better represents you. Neutral colors like navy blue, gray or brown are easy to style while giving you a personal nod within your look. Or, you could go the bold route and choose fun colors so your puffer is the pop of color in your outfit! You can still style the puffer coat with more fashionable and personal accessories that keep you warm, such as classy ear muffs, patterned gloves and cozy scarves.
These incredibly versatile pieces can be dressed up or down, despite their classy appearance.
My personal recommendation? While I adore the options listed above, when the weather is harshest, the puffer jacket is still the way to go. It’s practical, rain resistant and if you choose a longer style instead of a shorter cut, is very warm and the perfect protective outerwear against the downpour!