Surprise: Cloud Coats Are Proving to Be the Smartest Fall Buy of 2021

Like it or not, it’s time to start thinking about winter coats. As painful as that may be for some, let’s at least look on the bright side: There’s a great outerwear trend brewing. If you buy just one this year, make it a cloud coat. Truth be told, the trend started heating up last winter, and it’s gone full-force for F/W 21. So what is a cloud coat and how is it different from a puffer, you ask? Let’s discuss.

In general, a puffer is a very warm, casual coat style that usually zips up and often has a hood. It’s quilted but the quilting is using large and simple. Cloud coats, on the other hand, are usually thinner than a puffer, and often feature smaller quilting, such as diamond shapes, hourglasses, or even flowers. It also is typically a bit dressier than a puffer, and usually has buttons or snaps as opposed to a zipper. As for the neckline, it may be collared or resemble a bomber jacket. And like puffers, they’re typically made of nylon.

Cloud coats have been trending all over Instagram as of late (since it doesn’t have to be freezing to wear one), and we’re inspired to get one of our own. Scroll to see how fashion girls are wearing them and shop the best ones.

This is the cloud coat fashion people are freaking out over.

This colorful Zara option should cure the winter blues (no pun intended).

This perfect everyday coat is at the top of our wish list.

Barbour is the heritage brand that practically invented quilted coats.

Buying a belted coat is always a smart decision.

This is another fashion person favorite, and we can see why.

The sheen on this one is so pretty.

Get it before it sells out (because it will).

She’s fun.

You’ll wear this one for years to come.

Of course Ganni gets it.

You’re going to get so many compliments on this.

The model is wearing this one with sweatpants and now we want to wear it with sweatpants.

This color is so good.

Leave it to Zara to make the world’s most perfect cloud coat.

It also comes in green and black and we honestly can’t decide.

They had us at “packable”.

This is the perfect October and November jacket.

A vegan leather version looks so luxe.

Cloud jacket goals.

A worthy splurge.

This top-rated option is so classic and trendy at once.

You’ll wear this a ton.

Next up, 6 major jacket trends that are about to drop for fall.