I recently met up with a friend at Chadstone Shopping Centre in Melbourne, and admired the coat she was wearing. It was a puffer coat from Uniqlo made from quilted nylon in a diamond pattern and filled with ultralight down. I have never been a great fan of puffer coats as I have always thought they added unnecessary bulk to my body shape, but this one was a very flattering fit.
I bought the same coat the very next day and it’s been a really great investment. Because it is made from ultralight down, it rolls up quite small into its own nylon bag (about 20cm x 10cm). If I am not wearing it, it’s compact enough to take it with me wherever I go.
This coat is as warm as toast, extends to thigh level, fits very nicely over my sweaters and has a crew neckline that allows me to wrap a scarf around my neck. My only disappointment is that it doesn’t have a rain hood, which means I still have to carry the ever-reliable mini umbrella.
Anyway, it made me think about looking for some other options for puffer coats, as I am a great public transport traveller and I do hate the cold and rain.
I like the look of this hooded puffer from Katies as it meets a lot of my requirements. It has a hood with a detachable fur trim, a front zip closure, along with a snap front fastening. It is also a longer length and has two zip pockets which I love for my mobile phone and keys. Best of all, it’s great value for money.
If you prefer a navy option in a puffer, then take a look at this one from Zara. This has a hood, a zip front and zip pockets, and is also the longer length.
For those who prefer something a bit shorter, then this fleece-lined hooded coat at $35 may be just right for you.
While I was exploring Zara’s website, I came across two alternatives that are less bulky than a puffer. Both are water-repellent with hoods and the required pockets. One is like a mini trench coat and the other is more like a longer-line parka. Both are stylish and versatile enough to transition through into spring.
Have you embraced the puffer jacket? Do you have another jacket that you couldn’t live without?
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