A Topcoat Makes Every Outfit Heaps Cooler. Here Are the 15 Best. (2024)

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a man in possession of good fortune must be in want of a good topcoat. Isn't that what Jane Austen said? Oh, well. The point is—a topcoat is the marker of a man, the distinguisher between a boy who throws on a non-weather-appropriate hoodie and calls it a day, and a man who has a go-to coat, the perfect final layer, the crisp, clean last piece to the puzzle that brings his entire look together for winter.

The right topcoat isn't a piece you bring out once a year when winter calls for it; it's a closet staple, worn time and time again, just as wearable with denim as it is with silk, just as chic with sneakers as it is with loafers. A good topcoat should be warm, cozy, and durable. A great topcoat should be fashionable and versatile, too. A topcoat is meant to be layered, unlike an overcoat, which is typically heavier, longer, and, dare I say, all-consuming. It's a happy medium between overcoat and peacoat, hanging at or just above the knee, with lighter fabrics, easy layering abilities, and if you know where to look, sharp and elegant tailoring. But—well, you're here, so despite what Austen thinks, it seems like you do know where to look. And that makes for a fortunate man indeed.

Cole Haan has given us quality footwear at hard-to-beat prices since what feels like time immemorial. And though it hasn't been offering apparel for quite as long, its standards stay true across all categories. If there's one thing I love, it's reliability, and across footwear, outerwear, and more, this brand's got it—try this warm, timeless coat if you don't believe me. The piece features a cozy cashmere-blend fabric and leather-bound button holes and pocket trim for a more elevated look.

When it comes to classic silhouettes, timeless colorways, and fabrics that'll last the long haul, few can hold a candle to Ralph Lauren. This double-breasted style is chicness incarnate, with PRL's signature elegance that our editors can't get enough of.

If you're going to get a versatile cashmere-and-wool coat anywhere, let it be Uniqlo. It knows outerwear like few retailers do, and unlike at many other places, its prices are almost ridiculously good for how durable and high-quality its pieces are.

From underwear to outerwear, Calvin Klein's basics are pretty damn unbeatable. This is the brand I turn to for unending style, timeless designs, and a whole lot of comfort, too. With a minimalist design, this drop-shoulder topcoat has a contemporary hidden-button design that makes any fall fit that much cooler.

Buck Mason takes a classic topcoat and makes it even better. With four front pockets, a relaxed fit, and a heavyweight, fully lined design, this coat is warm and stylish, so you don't have to choose between chicness and comfort. Our editors love how easy this is to layer under, and how versatile it is to style, too; everything from suits to sweatpants are made all the more stylish.

I can never get enough of Cos's contemporary minimalism, and I find throwing a topcoat over whatever I'm wearing to be the easiest way to get the look. With a timelessly cool, effortlessly chic vibe, this understated, double-faced coat is warm and simple, with a clean look that can make even the most basic of fits look that much more stylish.

Inspired by military coats, Balmain has an absolute showstopper of a winter staple. This look is warm and cozy, with an insulated design and stand collar to keep the chill out, and clearly it's damn stylish, too—peep the double-breasted look with silver-toned buttons.

Not only does this cashmere topcoat look good, but it is good, being crafted from purely recycled cashmere. I'm a major Todd Snyder fan for everything but especially outerwear; during a season of cold, wet, dreary weather, this tailored piece will keep its clean, pristine look, so even when you feel like a mess during your morning commute, you won't look it.

If you're ready to invest in a staple black topcoat that's as timeless as it is well-made, look no further. Saint Laurent has a minimalist style that'll never be out of fashion, with a mid-weight single-breasted design.

Warm but not bulky, not too casual, not too formal—consider this the ultimate versatile topcoat. Our editors love how easy this is to style with everything from jeans and sneakers to pleated pants and loafers.

When you're in a pinch, Adam Baker has an easy, effortlessly stylish solution. This is a long-line, single-breasted look that won't cost you too much for all the times you'll certainly wear it.

If I could wear a coat year-round, this would be the one. Its simple look makes it endlessly easy to style. and it's soft as hell, too. Meet a timeless, basic camel overcoat that you'll wear for years to come and probably miss during warmer months.

Nautica doesn't overcomplicate things. This is a topcoat you can wear with anything and certainly bring anywhere. The timeless elegance is only made better by the fact that its on sale for 100 bucks right now.

For sleek, suave style under $100, Dockers is the way to go. Gray pairs with just about everything, and who doesn't love a single-breasted, two-button design?

This topcoat isn't only sleek, stylish, and timeless, but it's also ridiculously warm, thanks to its suede trim and shearling lining. With a classic herringbone design and chic silhouette, this is an investment piece you'll wear for many winters to come.