Puffer jackets (or puffa, depending on your preference) are having more than a moment right now. Once the preserve of posh boys on the après ski or Miranda Hobbes strolling around Manhattan, the down jacket is now this season’s most wearable wardrobe update. Thanks to Demna Gvasalia, Balenciaga’s new (ish) Creative Director, the puffer feels chic – worn thrust off the shoulder with sharply tailored trousers and a bejewelled polo neck sweater. Lucky for our purses, it wasn’t just Balenciaga who prioritised the style, with Marques’Almeida showing puffers oversized enough to double up as a sleeping bag, and hot London label Isa Arfen presenting beautifully fluid jackets, rendered in deep magenta and charcoal velvet.
As much as we hate to remind you that winter is coming, it is a truth universally acknowledged that those who do not buy their coats in August shall live in eternal regret, so here’s a round-up of the best around...
A real winner from everyone’s favourite high street friend, the colour nods to Balenciaga and the slim curved cut is guaranteed to give you a waist; no mean feat from a puffer. Watch out for the handy hidden hood too.
If you’re feeling on the fence, may we suggest this extraordinary Jacquemus number. Half sharply tailored wool jacket, half quilted fuchsia fancy. Equally at home in the boardroom or at the bar. Depending on the boardroom and the bar...
Jacquemus Coat With Contrasting Side, £575, available at www.brownsfashion.com
Emerald green and outdoorsy, Light Before Dark’s hip length jacket comes complete with a neat elasticated panel on the back, cinching you in nicely. Its detachable hood makes it the perfect cover up, come rain or shine.
Urban Outfitters Light Before Dark Cropped Quilted Jacket, £76
Channelling a modern day opera coat, this Stella number is a thing of rare beauty. Inky blue and crafted from the plushest velvet, this is without a doubt the most glamorous puffer on the block.
A second Zara pick, this time snow white and boxy. Pair yours with slick ski pant and clear liquids only.
The military trend looms large this season, so kill two sartorial birds with one stone and invest in this khaki guy.
A silky longline style from classic sportswear brand Fila. Wear yours oversized with denim and feel like the fourth member of TLC.
An eclectic puffer, deconstructed with a cut out shoulder, asymmetric hem and wraparound gingham ribbon. Wear yours with a thick ribbed sweater and a smile.
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