Absolutely London

AW16 Trend Update: 8 of the Best Luxe Puffer Coats

Nail style and comfort this season with eight of the best puffer coats

Words Joy Montgomery

In a season awash with not-so-practical cold weather wear – we’re looking at you backless loafers, cropped flares and (ironically named) cold shoulder tops – the puffer jacket is the warm squashy hug of a trend that will make the painful transition of rolling out of bed that little bit easier.

The first puffer jacket was created in 1936 by Eddie Bauer, but for most of us it will recall everything from old school hip hop styles and eye-watering ’80s fluorescents to the practical millets jackets of family walks. For 2016 however, following the industry’s new-found love for all things athleisure, the puffer made an unexpected leap onto the runway, and was in turn added to a long line of sportswear to be elevated in the name of high fashion.For AW16 Balenciaga plumped for a postbox red puffer layered over a blinged-up polo and killer heels, while Alexander McQueen opted for shell pink eiderdown embellished with flowers, and Stella McCartney elevated her puffer with sumptuous gold velvet.

It might not be the easiest trend to style, but the key is to keep things modern by clashing low with high. Be inspired by London Fashion Week street style and layer a colour pop puffer over a delicate lace or sheer top, but be sure to balance out your bottom half with skinny trousers. In contrast, Topshop’s pink coat has a McQueen-inspired delicacy, which will offer a glamorous cocoon to a white tee and faded denim.

Practical fashion trends don’t come along that often, so make the most of it while you can…