How to Pick a Winter Coat That’s Actually Warm, According to Fashion Experts

Not every winter coat is built to battle the cold. Here's what a fashion editor and two style experts say to look for before you buy.

While style is certainly something to keep in mind when shopping for a winter coat this season, practicality should be just as high a priority. A coat might look great on the rack, and even alongside the outfits you imagine pairing it with.

However, there's one question you should always ask yourself: "Can it keep me warm?" Knowing the answer will help narrow your search, and according to experts, it all comes down to choosing the right fabric.

So before you start shopping, consider the main purpose you want your winter coat to serve, and learn which materials and styles cater to those needs. Below is a guide to help you through the process.

Check the Fabric Content

Regardless of a coat's cut or style, its fabric will have the biggest impact on how comfortable it is to wear. Ideally, you want a material that not only keeps you warm but also wicks moisture away from your body, leaving you dry and comfortable.

"When it comes to picking a warm winter coat, I'm all about the fabrication. For a smart, tailored look, coats with wool or cashmere (or a combination of both) means I can guarantee great temperature regulation without even leaving the shop floor," says fashion editor Rivkie Baum.

A quality cashmere sweater is a true wardrobe hero, well worth the slightly steeper price tag for its blend of warmth and breathability, so it's no surprise that a cashmere coat delivers the same premium feel. If you're working with a smaller budget, wool is the next best option.

Stay Away from Synthetics

Anthony Bolognese, founder of bespoke suit specialist Capitol Hill Clothiers, warns shoppers to steer clear from synthetic fabrics. According to Bolognese, wool offers many of the same benefits as polyester, including moisture-wicking, antimicrobial properties, and stretch.

If your budget allows, a coat made entirely of natural fibers is well worth the investment.

If you'd rather choose a blend, Kendra Sharpe, a Raleigh, North Carolina-based stylist, advises selecting a coat with at least 85 percent natural fibers if you're expecting it to do some heavy lifting (i.e., hold up in sub-freezing temperatures).

If you're layering, you can get away with as little as 60 to 75 percent wool, but avoid anything under 50 percent if you need your coat to be functional.

The Length of Your Coat

A coat's length plays a big role in how well it protects you from the cold.

"For colder months, I'd recommend choosing a longer coat," Sharpe says. "Longer styles help keep your legs warm and can reduce how much layering you need underneath since the coat itself acts as a barrier against the elements."

Naturally, you'll also want a length that suits your frame. The ideal length will also depend on what you plan to do in it. For more active days, a shorter style will keep you warm without getting in the way.

On the other hand, if you'll be running leisurely errands or standing still for long periods, it makes sense to opt for a longer silhouette that offers more coverage.

A Few Final Tips

Beyond fabric and length, Bolognese recommends opting for coats with viscose or Bemberg linings instead of polyester, as both materials are made from cellulose and are anti-static.

It's also important to follow the care instructions, since they can affect how warm your coat feels over time.

Finally, if you're on a tight budget, don't shy away from secondhand. Sites like eBay, Poshmark, and Depop, among others, can turn up quality finds at a fraction of the price.