While the puffer coat never *technically* left, one could still argue that the plush and cozy look is back — and trending in a big way for fall. The easy style beloved by minimalists and utilitarian dressers alike is stepping out as more than just a reliable staple. Newly made over with cropped fits and oversized collars, the modern classic's been reimagined for today's trend-seekers.
In partnership with Abercrombie & Fitch, we've asked four Bustle editors to style fall's puffer jacket for a day in the city. Whether yours is shearling, velvet, cropped, or nylon, take some puffer inspo below and make the trend completely your own.
Amanda
Amanda's pick: Ultra Mini Puffer, $120, abercrombie.com; High Rise Ankle Flare jeans, $78, abercrombie.com; The A&F Essential Turtleneck, $58, abercrombie.com
What's the best part about fall's puffer trend? I love puffers because they are so trendy, lightweight, and warm. Unlike a heavy jacket, you can easily fold them to pack for a weekend getaway in a small carry on. They also literally feel like a pillow, which is what I would like to dress in (were it socially acceptable!).
What made you pick this look? The flare jeans are fun for fall with a tall boot or flirty for warmer weather with a sneaker. Turtlenecks are a staple in my closet as they can be layered with many outfits. Lastly, I choose a bright red puffer, so that although the look is simple, it will stand out in New York.
Tell us how you styled your look: I styled my look based on comfort and warmth, which I think should be the basis of all fall/winter clothing. The high rise flare jeans are so soft, and the puffer and turtleneck compliment each other's look and feel. I feel at home in this outfit, but the pop of red upgrades my overall style.
How else might you style this piece? I would wear this puffer with a neutral sweater, pleated skirt, tights, and a chunky heel.
Audrey
Audrey's pick: Ultra Mini Puffer, $120, abercrombie.com
What's the best part about fall's puffer trend? Puffers are the best for fall because they basically feel like you're wearing a super warm comforter in real life, but you still get to look super cute. Fashion and function!
What made you pick this look? I decided that I wanted yellow to be my signature color this fall, so when I saw this puffer I geeked out. Usually they're in darker neutrals, but in my opinion yellow can be a neutral if you try hard enough.
Tell us how you styled your look: Color, color, and then some more color. When you wear yellow, you can go one of two ways: Tone everything else down, or do what I did and go all out. I loved sticking with the primary colors for an updated '90s vibe.
How else might you style this piece? I would totally wear this puffer with an all-denim look. I think the color and silhouette of this would be the perfect complement to that.
Jenna
Jenna's pick: Sherpa Ultra Mini Puffer, $140, abercrombie.com
What's the best part about fall's puffer trend? I love a super-cozy coat that you know will keep you warm, even if you haven't layered up. From running errands to outdoor adventures or even over dressier looks, you're covered.
What made you pick this look? I've had many a puffer, but this is my first shearling puffer – and I think I'm hooked. It's so soft, and I love the texture to mix up my go-to black-on-black.
Tell us how you styled your look: I wanted to branch out from my typical high-rise denim and cropped sweaters and thought the bulk of this puffer contrasted nicely with the airy silk skirt. Plus, it actually kept me warm on a chilly NYC day — despite the questionable choice of bare legs.
How else might you style this piece? This is the kind of jacket I can thrown on over anything from leggings and a sweatshirt for a fall hike to jeans and a tee. As noted by basically all of us, this puffer literally feels like a duvet to-go.
Elly
Elly's pick: Velvet Ultra Mini Puffer, abercrombie.com; High Rise Ankle Straight Jeans, $88, abercrombie.com
What's the best part about fall's puffer trend? I love that this fun oversized shape is suddenly back because it's just fun to fight miserable temperatures with whimsical, playful styles. Also, it's very snuggly and requires minimal layering.
What made you pick this look? Pink outerwear has become my signature move in fortifying myself against the windchill — it doesn't take itself too seriously, and it makes the biting commute a little more cheerful.
Tell us how you styled your look: I wanted the puffer to be the big statement in the look, so I paired it with a dark oversized band tee, button-front blue jeans, and my shiny black boots.
How else might you style this piece? I'd also wear this puffer with a minidress layered over a long-sleeve tee.
This post is sponsored by Abercrombie & Fitch.
Photos: Lauren Perlstein; Hair and Makeup: Ashleigh Ciucci; Senior Editor: Jenna Wexler.
