The 7 Types of Coats to Permanently Keep in Your Closet

A definitive guide.

types of coats
(Image credit: Melodie Jeng)

Regardless of where you live, you want several reliable types of coats in your wardrobe. From rain and snow to a light breeze, covering all your bases usually takes more than one coat. Most of us default to a jean jacket, a classic trench coat, a wool coat, or a winter coat throughout the seasons. But there are several other stylish jackets and coats that every woman should have in her wardrobe, or want to own for variety's sake.

We've assembled a guide to coats and jackets, with the specific types we consider essential to have on hand in any situation. Plus, we've edited a selection of favorites to shop now, whether you're in immediate need or planning ahead.

Sara Holzman
Style Director

Sara Holzman is the Style Director at Marie Claire, covering runway trends and tracking down the latest finds to buy and wear. When she’s not writing about fashion, she pens about the best places to jet-off to. Over her six years with Marie Claire, Sara has reported on the ever-evolving world of fashion— covering both established and emerging designers within the industry. Sara has held fashion positions at Lucky and SELF Magazine and was a regular contributor to Equinox’s Furthermore website, where she wrote across their style, wellness, and travel verticals. She holds a degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri, Columbia, and currently resides in Manhattan. Follow her along at @sarajonewyork.