Everyone With Expensive Taste Is Wearing This Vintage Jacket Trend Again
Graphic by Jasmine Fox-Suliaman for Who What Wear; Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight; Pictured: Bottega Veneta F/W 24; Tod's F/W 23; Prada F/W 24; Max Mara F/W 24; Ferragamo F/W 24
Editors Note: This story was published on Who What Wear in January 2025.
Confession: I'm a coat snob, full stop. Don't get me wrong. I'm a religious follower of outerwear trends just as much as the next fashion person, but after years of living in some of the coldest climates in the country, I've come to terms with the fact that not all coats are created equal, a lesson I learned through a lot of frostbite and fashion malfunctions. Very few types of jackets are functional enough for frigid temperatures and fashionable enough to entice those with expensive taste. Finding the best coat is akin to Goldilocks looking for the perfect bed to hibernate in for the rest of the winter. Sure, puffer coats are warm, but are they the prettiest options? The jury is out. Fur coats are fabulous, but can they be too formal at times? Definitely. Basically, you could rationalize the shortcomings of any classic winter coat. Before you spiral, let me share the knowledge I've accumulated while searching for the best outerwear.
After a lifetime journey through the proverbial woods, I've come to the following realization: Peacoats are the superior option. As far as classic winter outerwear goes, no other style has stood the test of time, and it's remained a staple since its creation by Dutch sailors in the early 19th century. What's made the peacoat perennially revenant goes back to its posh silhouette, which typically features double-breasted buttons, broad lapels, and a short hemline that cuts off around the hips. The shorter coat length makes it one of the most straightforward jackets to style for everyday life while giving an outfit a sophisticated finish. Moreover, what's distinct about peacoats compared to other jackets is that they're typically made from thick wool, mohair, and cashmere—ensuring that they'll keep you warm throughout the winter. It's no wonder, then, that some of the most prim and polished people, including royal figures such as Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle, have continuously chosen peacoats as their winter coats.
It's not just royals who've remained big fans of the iconic sailor style. It's remained a steadfast part of runway collections too. Within the recent fall/winter 2024 and spring/summer 2025 collections, we've seen designers give the classic style contemporary updates by playing with hemlines, texture, and bold colors. It's further proof that peacoats are one of the most fashionable winter coats, hands down. If you're still not convinced that this dated jacket trend is the perfect addition to your winter wardrobe, keep reading. Ahead, I've rounded up examples of the peacoat trend in recent runway collections and a few outfit ideas to show how real women are currently styling the jacket trend. Plus, I've shopped out the 22 best peacoats for women at every price point. Consider this jacket trend the fashion equivalent to Goldilocks's perfect bed.
On the Runway
Who What Wear; Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight; Pictured: Gucci F/W 24
Who What Wear; Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight; Pictured: Ferragamo F/W 24
Who What Wear; Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight; Pictured: Bottega Veneta F/W 24