With party season just around the corner, it brings with it the eternal dilemma when it comes to choosing a coat: should you go for full-throttle glamor or something that really keeps you warm?
Both are possible this year thanks to the stylish party buffer. Yes, utilitarian padded coats have had a designer makeover. On the runway, Prada presented voluminous puffer fish decorated with feathers. Dior showcased cinched waists with sleeves that ended just above the wrist – all the better for flashing fabulous jewels. Dries Van Noten layered thickly quilted velvet and floral print coats over matching evening wear.
coat, £290, essentielantwerp.com; Jeans, £235, Frame store. com; bag, £275, russia bromley.co.uk; Boots, £359, lkbennett.com; Earrings, £130, carousel jewels.com
Invented by US adventurer Eddie Bauer in the 1930s, the down-insulated jacket was typically reserved for outdoor activities. In the 1990s they were part of the streetwear trend; Think boy band East 17 wearing white puffers and combat pants. But it wasn’t until 2016, when Balenciaga debuted a strapless padded coat on the runway, that he approached high fashion.
Jacket, £299, allsaints.com; Skirt, £89, mint velvet. co.uk; Boots, £35.99, shop. mango.com; Earrings, £150, Sorujewelry. com; Bracelet, £42, ground. co.uk
The puffer fish is taking over the high street this season. The key to choosing a true “party puffer” is reaching for luxe textures. A high gloss finish says cocktail ready – like Guess’s glossy style. Or opt for a metallic sheen like Massimo Dutti’s Pearly Puffer.
If you’re wearing a statement bottom half, keep your puffer short. Karen Millen’s pepum jacket lets a sequined skirt take center stage. The shawl collar adds an elegant touch. While a statement print adds an extra pop to solid-colored dresses, like Kate Spade’s floral number, which is finished with a faux fur collar. Or coordinate with your outfit for a tonal look.
jacket, £119, massimo dutti.com; dress, £249, allsaints.com; Boots, £49.50, marksand spencer.com; Bag, £150, Essentiel Antwerp. com
Jacket, £350, sweater, £375, katespade.co.uk; Turtleneck (worn underneath), £79, lavenderhillclothing. com; skirt, £79.99, reserved.com; Boots, £65, next.co.uk; Bracelet, £38, anthropologie.com
For sporty-chic occasions, a hot pink puffer will enhance the use of dark wash jeans and boots. Essentiel Antwerp’s comes with a hood for midnight rain. Just add a touch of gold with hoop earrings and a crossbody bag.
And when the party’s over, you’ll still be snuggly and warm and add a little sparkle to those dreary winter days.
Left: jacket, £124, karenmillen. com; Skirt, £245, Wyselondon. com; Socks, £8, Calzedonia. com; heels, £120, boden.co.uk; Earrings, £42, Anthropologie. com. Right: Jacket, £79.99 and dress, £35.99, reserved.com; Boots, £75, riverisland.com; necklace, £48, anthropologie.com; Earrings, £28, orelia.co.uk
Red jacket, £170, believe.eu; orange jacket, £44.95, regatta.com; Skirt, £89, Mint Velvet.co.uk; Boots, £250, duoboots.com