Winter is divided into different phases, each marked by the appropriate outerwear. Every year in early-to-mid January, without fail, we enter the puffer coat phase of the season. This means that absolutely no other coat will be able to do the trick of keeping you warm other than a puffy cloud of insulation.
Puffers are generally harder to style than your quilted shell or your wool cocoon (Of course! They’re a layer of puff!) But there is a formula to styling them to make them fun and intentional, not just necessary. First, you want to look for a puffer that has some pizzazz to it, be that with a cool feature (such as a tie hood!), or some fashion element or print (uh, stripes!?). And then it’s all about the styling. Read on for some insight into how to style winter’s warmest staple.
Refine the Puffer
Because a puffer is, at its core, a pretty casual style of outerwear, I like to refine the puffer with things like tailored trousers and classic accessories. Nikki recently wore a puffer with such an outfit — she wore corduroys and loafers — which looked quite Milanese to me (perfect timing with Pitti Uomo’s recent occurrence if I do say so myself 😉).
By styling the puffer with timeless items, you subdue the sportiness of the coat. The Trevor puffer, my personal favorite of the KULE puffers, features a hood you can tie in a bow under your chin. In a deep navy with subtle poppy accents, this style looks elegant for a puffer, perfect for looking intentional and chic in your winter wear.
Make the Puffer the Statement
If you have a fashion puffer, i.e. one with print, pattern, or some special design element, embrace it! Make the puffer the statement. Fashion puffers are often a bit playful, so have fun! I like streamlining the silhouette and pairing the wideness of the puffer on top with slim cigarette pants or a mini skirt/tights. I’d go for a kitten heel or fun flat if there’s no snow on the ground, or a sleek ankle boot to minimize the bulk.
Lean into the Après-Ski
You can also, of course, go all in to the wintry vibe and dress in an après-ski look. This is actually my personal favorite way of styling a puffer because go big or go home! It’s thematic dressing! Think: the warmest classic puffer around, worn over a chunky sweater, paired with stirrups, a mandatory balaclava, and big sunglasses. Très chic ⛷️.
Inspired? Shop winter wear here.
