If you’re someone who loves a chunky knit sweater, or you like to elevate your hoodies with a cool jacket as much as we do…Shana and I bring you: cocoon coats.
Plenty of brands say “cocoon coat,” but very few actually nail the silhouette. Look for dropped shoulder seams and a looser fit in the body. The dropped seams give it some extra slouch in the shoulders and arms, then it sort of curves around the torso (still keeping extra room for layering over thick sweaters + hoodies), then slightly narrows around the hem. Ultimately, it’s meant to be a little oversized and roomy without having that too-bulky look.
The Cocoon Coat: Roomy, Chic & Ready for Layering
I know we’ve all had that moment when the jacket’s arms are so tight, they kinda just hang outwards…a la A Christmas Story. Cocoon coats? Problem solved.
Cocoon Coat vs. Long Wool Coat
First things first, a word from Shana, “Two pics that show exactly why cocoon coats are so good – one tailored, long wool coat (that’s gorgeous – I love it over anything not bulky), and then the cocoon coat.”
S’ photos made it sooo clear — the cocoon coat (on the left) is much better for layering over thick winter sweaters and hoodies. The one on the right, while a stunner, doesn’t have as much room in the shoulders and arms.
Cocoon Coats: Our Top Picks
Okay, here’s the roundup of our top picks. 11 finds, to be exact.
top left | bottom left | middle | top right | bottom right
1. Aritzia The Only Coat
Italian wool and cashmere? 100% yes. Comes in a ton of other colors, too (I’m eyeing the tweed).
2. Marcella NYC Elizabeth Wool Coat
Also made of Italian wool, I love the little details on this one. Like that pop of red on the lining and slightly textured fabric (check it out zoomed in). And if you wanna go for the full bold — there’s a couple more sizes left in the red.
3. Banana Republic Double-Faced Top Coat
Banana Republic (small, petite)
Straight from the source — S says, “While this coat is not 100% wool (51% recycled wool, 40% polyester, 9% other fibers), the genius is in the cut. It’s rare to find a true cocoon coat, but I SWEAR by this style come winter. It’s the only style that actually (comfortably!!) fits over even the bulkiest sweaters, making it one of the styles I wear the most. Also? It’s reversible. I have the olive green/brown (in small petite which is why it fits so perfectly), but it’s also available in a camel stripe that I can’t stop thinking about.”
4. Free People Ari Wool Peacoat
Free People (more sizes available) | Nordstrom
Okay, okay. Yes it says peacoat (and…true). But the drop shoulder seams and wider torso, that curves in a bit by the hem, fits the bill. Also love the herringbone print. Runs large, consider sizing down.
5. Universal Standard Marlo Cocoon Coat
Nordstrom | Universal Standard
At first glance: classic, timeless. But if you wanna make it a little more interesting (and you’re someone that covers your face on cold walks), button the collar up.
6. Mango Wool-blend Coat
Love, love, love the tiny houndstooth print and color. More eye-catching than a solid color, but always wearable.
7. Zara Oversized Wool Coat
That wider cuff really adds a little something, and immediately caught my eye. Has the most perfect slouchy fit, too.
8. Mango Wool-blend Coat
If you wanna go full-cocoon mode: this one has a slightly more dramatic shape. The color’s great (but I love the gray, too).
9. Avec Les Filles Cocoon Scarf Coat
This is a good option if you want less of a dramatic drop-seam-shoulder, while keeping that cocoon-like shape. And, I’m loving the matching scarf moment and faux-leather contrast trim.
10. Banana Republic Italian Wool-blend Top Coat
Basically want to recreate this entire outfit. So sleek and cool. Has that button-up collar option, too.
11. Zara Shawl Collar Knit Coat
Since the rest of the round-up has that tailored-wool look…I wanted to include this relaxed, knit option. Almost like a cardigan, but still a coat. And I love the collar and pockets on this one.
xo,
D & S
