We hear a lot of talk about wool coats, trenches and faux fur jackets come winter, but when it comes to outerwear that really outperforms all others for warmth and practicality, the conversation must surely turn to puffer jackets.
Traditionally, those who favour this downy quilted style have fallen into two camps: people looking for performance-enhancing outerwear to see them through the extreme cold sports (see: skiing or, say, running for the last pre-Christmas train at Paddington) and the younger generation, for whom the puffer jacket carries a certain level of influence amongst street stylers.
This isn’t so much the case in other countries: in New York and other European capitals, where freezing winter temperatures make our worst days look like a balmy spring morning, the puffer jacket is a non-negotiable winter wardrobe staple, which is probably why the style set show such a flair for styling them come their respective fashion week. Season after season, Manhattanites and Scandi street stylers demonstrate the versatility of puffer jackets, from statement patterned designs to sleeker, streamlined iterations and enveloping wrap silhouettes.
If you’ve never invested in a puffer jacket before, now is most definitely the best time to do so. Like many classic styles of outerwear, the puffer has been reimagined through a modern lens over the past few seasons, courtesy of some of our favourite designer brands. Naturally, Chanel showed one with bows on for its autumn/winter 25 collection — very demure — while Versace and Vivienne Westwood went all-out on eye-catching, abstract, patterns and Lacoste delved into plushy, duvet-sized designs.
Here to prove the case for the puffer jacket’s potential, no matter what your age or style aesthetic, we’ve compiled a complete guide to wearing the ultra-comfy outerwear with style this winter. Scroll on, and see why the puffer is about to be your next best purchase.
How to style a puffer jacket for 2026
1// With leather trousers
Leather trousers might not feel like a natural pairing with a puffer jacket, but this outfit demonstrates how it can work. Opt for hues that complement each other, like a khaki or cream puffer and black or brown trousers, but avoid a full-black ensemble which can swallow the look whole. Be intentional with your accessories too: matching them to your leather trousers will bring a polished harmony. For extra flair, opt for a puffer with a shearling-trimmed collar like this one from Jil Sander.
Johnstons of Elgin waffle stick cashmere hood
Now 40% Off
Jil Sander plush-trimmed quilted shell jacket
Citizens of Humanity Ayla high-rise wide-leg pants
Tod’s Gomma leather Chelsea Boots
2// With heels
In Jenna Lyons we trust: here, the fashion powerhouse demonstrates her effortless knack for making the everyday look elevated with a minimalist beige puffer coat, black, slightly cropped relaxed jeans, and a pair of black heels. Not the first footwear pairing we’d have thought of for a puffer jacket, but may we refer you back to our opening statement.
Moncler Mauzun short down jacket
The Frankie Shop Rafaela jumper
Agolde ’90s mid-rise straight-leg jeans
Manolo Blahnik Bb 90 leather heels
3// With clashing prints
Puffer jackets might be practical, but that doesn’t mean they have to be boring; brighten up dreary winter days with a mish-mash of bold patterns in the form of festive winter dresses or animal-print trousers. Farm Rio, Never Fully Dressed and Stine Goya all offer delectable patterned puffers, while Burberry’s checked version is undeniably on-trend, and looks excellent when paired with clashing tartan.
Pucci Orchidee puffer jacket
Pucci Marmo printed maxi dress
Miu Miu logo leather knee-high boots
Jimmy Fairly Aero sunglasses
4// With all-black
One sure way to make a puffer jacket look sophisticated is to go monochrome: worn with a matching head-to-toe ensemble, this black puffer jacket goes from everyday to elevated. Add a pair of sleek sunglasses, a leather bag and some statement earrings for a final polish.
Joseph Charlot padded down coat
Now 50% Off
Autograph tailored barrel leg trousers
Saint Laurent Boston textured-leather tote
Jimmy Choo Lory 35 leather ankle boots
5// With denim hues
Swap out a puffer jacket and jeans combo for this inspired take on denim; colourful yet cohesive, this look plays with textures and patterns for an outfit that’s unimpeachably cool and oh-so-Scandi. If you can’t get hold of a pair of denim-effect trousers, some turn-up wide-leg jeans will also do the trick.
Roberto Cavalli bandana-print puffer jacket
Now 35% Off
Vince long-sleeve crew-neck jumper
Now 28% Off
Ulla Johnson Genevieve high-rise wide-leg jeans
Saint Laurent Ashley polished-leather ankle boots
6// With tailoring
A hybrid leather-puffer jacket is a great example of where both form and function meet. Contrast the oversized nature of the outerwear with precise tailoring and a pair of sleek knee-high boots, mixing elegance with edge.
Rotate studded puffer jacket
The Elder Statesman – Cashmere Tank – Black
Jil Sander pleated midi skirt
Now 40% Off
Aeyde Medea leather knee-high boots
7// With a maxi skirt
We love this transitional look for the days when the sun finally starts to show itself, but there’s still a brisk chill to the air. This outfit has it all: the boho sensibility of the denim skirt, a charmed-up biker-style bag, retro-inspired trainers and sleek sunglasses in a matching hue. A considered pick’n’mix of inspiration that comes together to create an off-duty ‘It’ girl look.
Miu Miu pongé cropped down jacket
Paige Angela denim skirt
Now 50% Off
Puma Speedcat OG trainers
Balenciaga Le Cagole small studded crinkled-leather shoulder bag
8// With riding boots
A pair of glossy riding boots will add charm and elegance to any outfit, including a cosy puffer. Olive and black hues make for a timeless pairing, while the addition of slim-fitting leggings and a tailored blazer ensure this outfit is as well-suited to country walks as it is to pounding the city pavements.
Loro Piana Mitty reversible down jacket
Toteme riding leather knee boots
