Fashion

How to style a puffer jacket this winter, according to the fashion set

Don’t let the puffer wear you.
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Edward Berthelot

If you’re wondering how to style a puffer jacket, you’re not alone. This cold-weather staple has been firmly back in our winter rotation since last November. It’s one of the few styles that actually keeps me warm through winter's worst, and, let's face it, if you live in the rainy UK, having a waterproof winter coat at the ready is essential all year round.

As practical as it is, though, knowing how to style a puffer jacket isn’t always straightforward. Its padded, oversized shape doesn’t exactly make it the easiest piece to work into an outfit without feeling bulky. As much as I like feeling as if I’m wearing an insulated comforter, I don’t want to look like I just rolled out of bed.

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But one thing I’ve learned over the years of dressing for winter is that understanding your proportions is key. I’m 5'3", so I like a cropped option to avoid any awkward lengths. Other features, such as a drawcord to tighten at the waist or a funnel neck to keep me warm, are a bonus. Similar to styling a gilet, I recommend experimenting with oversized layers, monochromatic looks and of course, accessorising.

That said, it’s ultimately up to your personal style, height and preference. Still, below are some tips on how to style a puffer jacket to look chic and cosy this season.

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Puffer jacket and slouchy bottoms

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Once I learned how to play with volume, styling a puffer no longer made me feel like I’m ruining my outfit. You can pair an oversized cropped style (the fluffier, the better) with baggy jeans or trousers, preferably barrel shaped, to create an hourglass figure. This way it’s not swallowing you whole. If you prefer a longline puffer instead, just look for one with a belt to cinch at the waist. This style can be worn dressier with pointed heeled boots or casual with slim trainers.

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Party Of One Puffer Jacket

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Puffer jacket and midiskirt

Puffer jacket and midi skirt
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The puffer jacket is very masculine on its own, which is why a skirt plays well with it. If you want to add a feminine edge to your winter outfits, simply pair it with a flowy denim or satin skirt. I recommend an A-line skirt for dimension or one with a lace detail (a skirt trend that’s been everywhere this season). This goes nicely with a pair of slouchy knee-high boots or kitten heels.

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Ari Lace Satin Slip Skirt

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Puffer jacket and all black

Puffer jacket and all black
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Elevate the classic puffer jacket by mixing in textures, whether it’s on the jacket itself – like a fleece fabric one or cool quilted stitched puffer – or with your bottoms. The silk trouser trend, for example, is everywhere right now; mixing that fabric with a puffer is a nice way to elevate your monochromatic look. You can add a pop of colour with your handbag, jewellery or shades.

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Nelle Black Faux Fur Short Puffer Coat

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Tess Womens Down Jacket

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Toasty Womens Short Padded Jacket

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Aspen Love Puffer Jacket

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Skirt Layered Trousers

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Puffer jacket and accessories

Puffer jacket and a giant scarf
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I like to fully embrace the winter through my clothing. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still going to complain about the cold, but it’s also fun to romanticise the cold-weather months. One way to do that is to find chic winter accessories like leather gloves, fluffy earmuffs, a cool-kid snood, platform boots or a ludicrously capacious scarf. Tie one around like a balaclava to complement your puffer jacket.

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Pieces Oversized Balaclava Snood

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Puffer jacket as the focus

Puffer jacket as the focus
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There’s nothing wrong with a versatile black coat, but there’s something about a statement puffer that makes you feel unique. Plus, the jacket does all the work for you. It’s bold, expressive, and cool on its own. All you have to do is slip on trainers and trousers. Boom, you’ve outdressed everyone around you and you’re warm. These stylish winter jackets can be paired with denim or midiskirts.

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Pearl Hooded Puffer

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This article originally appeared on Glamour (US).