We’re all about making smart investments, so you don’t have to second-guess your splurges. Welcome to Well Worth It, where Well+Good editors share their most beloved big-ticket items to tell you which ones are *actually* worth your hard-earned cash. ✨
Like it or not, fall is creeping in, which means it’s officially coat season—and no, that ancient, pilled cardigan you’ve had since college won’t cut it anymore. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to invest in a jacket that actually does something for your wardrobe (and your confidence), here it is. We know, we know—new outerwear often comes with a hefty price tag, and shelling out that kinda cash for something you only get to wear a few months out of the year comes with serious sticker shock. But we also know that sticker shock often pays off in the end; it’s what keeps you warm and dry from autumn’s unpredictable weather patterns.
This season, we’re sharing the splurge-worthy coats and jackets that deliver on every front: premium fabrics, impeccable craftsmanship, and flattering, trendy fits. Sure, they may come with a higher price tag, but trust us, they’ll prove their worth with every wear—season after season.
8 luxe coats *actually* worth your cash
Columbia Payton Pass Interchange Jacket — $168.00
Sizes: XS-XXL | Colors: 5 | Materials: Recycled Microtemp 80g
“I bought this coat two years ago when I first moved out to Seattle and needed something waterproof but also warm. It’s so warm and comfortable, has lots of different pockets, and has a removable fur hood which is great for those rainy and (sometimes snowy) winter days in the PNW,” – Allison Forsyth, Associate Health Editor
The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket — $330.00
Sizes: XS-XXL | Colors: 5 | Materials: 700-fill down
“Northface has always been a tried and true coat brand for me, especially for enduring northeast winters! I love this latest edition of their puffer coat. It’s functional, cute, ultra-warm, and even packable, perfect for a winter getaway,” – Ciara Lucas, Health + Fitness Writer
Barbour Ashby Waxed Cotton Jacket — $398.00
Sizes: XS-3XL | Colors: 3 | Materials: 100% waxed cotton
“This has been my go-to jacket for over three years, and I wear it both in the fall and in the spring. Its waxed-cotton exterior keeps me from getting soaked when I’m caught in a sudden rain shower and is roomy enough to accommodate layers. It’s pretty versatile, too: I’ve worn it over both mini-dresses and jeans. Plus, when I have this jacket on my back, I can travel without a handbag. (A huge bonus for me!) It has so many pockets, which I’ve used to carry my phone, wallet, keys, and lipstick all at the same time,” – Danielle Calma, Commerce Writer
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Arc’Teryx Conduit Down Jacket — $700.00
Sizes: XS-XL | Colors: 1 | Materials: 850-fill goose down
“I purchased this puffer jacket on sale a couple of years ago. Was it a lot to spend on a jacket? Yes. Was it well worth it, though? Absolutely. First, it’s as warm as it looks. In crisp fall weather, I can wear it over just a T-shirt, and come early or late winter, it keeps the chill out. Plus, I can wear it over thick sweaters and other layers without feeling like a sausage. I also like that the jacket zips up all the way to my neck, and its padded collar acts like a built-in scarf. It also cinches at the bottom hem which comes in handy in blustery weather. Lastly, it comes in an all-black color that makes it versatile and looks pretty sleek, if I do say so myself,” – Calma
Isabel Marant Maja Coat — $695.00
Sizes: XS-XL | Colors: 1 | Materials: 65% polyester, 35% acrylic
“Isabel Marant is my go-to when I’m after something a little luxe and subtly over-the-top. The main reason I’m hooked? The fit. As a tall, lanky guy, finding a coat that actually works for me is a rare win, and Isabel’s coats do just that. The three I own are practically blankets—warm, enveloping, and impossible to resist. I always feel effortlessly cool wearing her stuff, which is impressive, because cool I am not,” – Danny Feekes, Head of Commerce
Patagonia W’s Radalie Parka — $249.00
Sizes: XS-XXL | Colors: 2 | Materials: 100% recycled polyester
“I bought this coat three years ago when I was living in Lake Placid, NY and needed something that would help me survive daily sub-arctic temps. In true Patagonia form, its quality is unmatched—it’s my go-to parka when I want to be warm but don’t want to feel like a marshmallow. It looks as good as it does when I first got it three years ago and is just as cozy, too,” – Francesca Krempa, Commerce Editor
Reformation Veda Dalia Relaxed Leather Blazer — $498.00
Sizes: XS-4XL | Colors: 1 | Materials: LWG-certified leather
“I have an earlier version of this jacket and it’s my most worn piece once the weather cools down. The leather is good quality, is weighty without being heavy, and it pairs perfectly with any look (it’s my go-to wedding guest jacket). I love the attention to sustainability between brands Veda and Reformation, which collaborated to make this jacket. This is a piece I’ll have forever as it’ll age better with time,” – Jessica Willision Reyes, Business Manager
Quince Responsible Down Puffer Jacket — $129.00
Sizes: XS-XL | Colors: 12 | Materials: 700-fill goose down
“As someone who is constantly cold (I’m known to always carry around a light jacket in the summer out of fear of getting cold indoors), it feels like I’m buying a new puffer coat every year in hopes that it will keep me warm, but I always end up disappointed and shivering. I bought this coat last winter and have finally found my go-to! It has 700 goose-down fill, fleece pockets, and is comparable to the Aritzia Super Puff, but at a much more affordable price point,” – Melenie McGregor, Senior Video Producer
Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission.
