We can always rely on the great British weather to leave us scrambling to cool down in a heatwave, then shivering in the rain mere days later.
With autumn now here, and winter on its way, there’s no better time than now to get ready for the temperature drop and start your winter coat shopping.
While it may feel premature, the high street has already begun dropping stylish and practical designs for the next season, so there’s no shortage of choice.
Don’t spend hours scrolling to find the right one, as we’ve done the hard work and handpicked the best winter coats of 2026 to add to your basket.
Practicality is obviously just as important as style when it comes to surviving winter, so we’ve included options that can handle whatever the weather throws at you.
Think water-repellent trenches, waxy car coats built for country walks and city commutes, and a proper rain jacket that promises to keep you bone-dry even in a downpour, because nothing ruins your day like being soaked through before you’ve even reached the office.
From M&S to Mango, New Look to Sainsbury’s, there’s something for every budget and taste, no matter if you’re looking to splurge or save.
So before the queues start and your favourite pieces disappear, here’s our edit of the winter coats that are top of our shopping list.
The best winter coats to shop now:
M&S Longline Tailored Coat with Wool
This chocolate brown coat is a great alternative to black, but still remains a versatile neutral shade that can smarten up all your outfits.
It’s just landed at M&S, and we suspect it will be a popular piece this winter.
Available in sizes six to 24 in petite and regular sizing, it’s a timeless single-breasted design with vented pockets and lining for added warmth when temperatures drop.
Mango Padded Anorak With Removable Scarf
Practical but make it chic.
The humble anorak has had a stylish upgrade thanks to Mango, and this one even comes with a matching removable scarf in the same quilted fabric.
Designed to be oversized with press-stud buttons, it’s easy to throw on when the temperature turns.
By Anthropologie Lime Boucle Funnel-Neck Jacket
Funnel neck coats are going nowhere and this colourful checked style is a statement piece if you want to adopt more colour into your winter wardrobe.
The cosy wool material will keep you very warm, while the dropped shoulder and relaxed fit mean its easy to wear over thick jumpers without looking bulky.
Zara ZW Collection Water-repellent Belted Trench Coat
If you want the smartness of a trench coat with the functionality of a water-repellent fabric that will survive the endless downpours in the UK, head to Zara.
This coat comes in black and beige with all the trimmings of a trench, such as shoulder tabs, an adjustable buckle belt, and a double-breasted fastening, but it will make going out in the rain a lot less miserable.
Sainsbury’s Navy Check Waxy Car Coat
It’s giving Damson Madder without the price tag.
Trusty Tu at Sainsbury’s can always be relied on to pull out all the stops at a bargain, and this waxy car coat is going straight in our basket.
It’s got plenty of pockets for your keys, phone, you name it, and a corduroy collar and cuffs that give it a timeless feel you can wear for seasons to come.
New Look Navy Faux Leather Zip Front Jacket
If you love a leather jacket, but aren’t a fan of a cropped style, this longline design is the perfect compromise.
The elasticated hem helps keep the wind chill away, and the navy hue is a nice alternative to classic black.
H&M Single-Breasted Coat
Wrap up warm and cosy with this fluffy lined coat, that’s like stepping outside in a smarter version of your duvet.
When the weather feels baltic later this year, you’ll be glad you snapped this up.
Rains Long Jacket
If you hate getting caught out in the rain, 2026 is the year to invest in a proper raincoat, and Rains makes some of the most stylish designs you can find.
It will keep you bone-dry even when the heavens open, with a spacious cap hood, snap pockets and adjustable sleeves for a loose or tight fit.
It also comes with under-arm eyelets and concealed vents so you won’t work up a sweat, and it can be easily folded into a bag to save space once you’re safely inside.
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