You might be surprised by how many different outfit combinations you can actually come up with while wearing a simple black puffer coat. If you’re looking for more ways to get creative with your puffer jacket style this season, read on.

Love it or hate it, we all have one.

If you live in the northeast, a puffer coat is only inevitable as the cold season starts to roll around. And let’s be honest—you can probably find a puffer coat, more specifically, a black puffer coat in every woman’s closet. Aside from the obvious, which is to keep you warm, a black puffer is the most practical jacket on the market for fall and winter. It’ll protect against the elements, it won’t appear dirty after every wear, and above all, it goes with pretty much everything else in your wardrobe. 

A coat doesn’t have to be something that’s an afterthought that ruins an outfit, though. You can be intentional with how you fold it into the process of getting dressed. “When styling a puffer jacket, two key tips make all the difference—focusing on proportions and incorporating tailoring,” says New York-based stylist Brooklynn Gallagher. “Puffers naturally have a casual vibe, so pairing them with a tailored bottom—like trousers or a structured skirt—elevates the entire look.”

You might be surprised by how many different outfit combinations you can actually come up with while wearing a simple black coat. Since you’ll wear it over and over again, there are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a new one: “Invest in quality and longevity,” Gallagher says. “A good puffer jacket is a staple, not something to replace every year.” Gallagher also suggests owning two types: “One shorter, more elevated puffer that works well for a night out or styled look, and a second, more casual one for everyday wear.”

If you’re looking for more ways to get creative with your puffer jacket style this season, read on. 

With a Pencil Skirt

Focusing on pairing your jacket with a tailored bottom, like a gray pencil skirt, is a foolproof way to elevate your look. In this case, an oversized fit works perfectly for layering over a blazer and a crisp white button-down. Add sleek finishing touches like burgundy kitten heels and a top handle bag carried like a clutch. 

With Blue Jeans

Why not lean into the casualness of a puffer jacket? A good pair of straight-leg blue jeans and a white button-down shirt is a traditional combo that can't ever go wrong. To dress it up, add a necktie in a contrasting color, like dark red.

With Riding Boots and Carpenter Shorts

This is a PSA that not all shorts have to be worn only in the summer. A pair of riding boots can easily transform carpenter shorts into a cold-weather outfit. Paired with a fitted black puffer coat on top—now you have a balanced, well-proportioned look that’s also pretty cool—if I do say so. 

Leather On Leather

You should never doubt the power of a striking leather-on-leather look. But with so much of the same material, you’ll need to think of a way to break it up. Gallagher’s advice is to “avoid pairing a bulky puffer with a slim-fitting bottom.” Instead, a cropped puffer with a loose, flowing maxi skirt will help you craft the silhouette you’re looking for. A belt will only help further that point. 

WithA Mini Skirt and Tights

I think that everyone should own a unique puffer coat, like this blazer-like version. It feels less like a coat and more like a practical top, feeling both functional and stylish. To let the puffer shine, add a mini skirt and sheer tights.

With Leather Pants

Sometimes all we have the energy for in the winter is a big puffer coat. But you don’t have to worry, because there are still ways to make even the most straightforward puffer look cool. “A loose pant, a fitted top, and an oversized puffer is a fail-proof formula,” according to Gallagher. “But, of course, the fun of styling is trying new things, so play around with pieces you already have in your closet.” Case in point: these liquid leather shiny trousers. 

With A Bold Maxi Skirt

One of the best things about black puffer coats is that you can experiment with wearing all of the other statement textures and silhouettes in your closet. Take this matching puffer skirt, for example. Notice its bell-like shape and how nicely it lends itself to an equally voluminous zip-up puffer coat. It is best to dress down a skirt like this, whether it's with a more casual pair of shoes or a handbag, like a wicker basket.

With Non-Traditional Pants

Another way to make a standard black puffer more exciting is to pair it with an unexpected pair of pants. Any sort of two-toned, asymmetric, or paneled pair will work. If you are to go that route, I would advise you to keep the rest of your outfit as minimal as possible. 

With A Wool Sweater and a Flared Skirt

Mixing in different kinds of textures and colors is another way to liven up your puffer coat this winter. Wool, by way of your sweater, a flouncy skirt, and sneakers will make a comfortable but put-together look. Add in your favorite shoulder (bonus points if it's in a bold color!) to tie it all together.

With Tailored Trousers

When in doubt, pair a puffer jacket with tailored trousers. Look for pinstriped pants if you want to do something slightly different but still keep it minimal. A shiny black crossbody bag will tie the look together and add in the perfect amount of contrast.