(Fashion)

Don't Start 2019 Without This Trendy Winter Staple

by Nicole Kliest
@himichelleli

Fun fact: Eddie Bauer was the first designer to patent the down jacket (aka: the puffer) in America. The year was 1940 and the style was dubbed "The Skyliner." Fast forward almost seventy years, and this outerwear piece is tantamount to a cozy second skin — especially if you live in a cold climate. Like hiking boots and cargo pants, though the puffer's origin is rooted in utility, how to wear a puffer jacket in 2019 is all about adding a fashion-forward spin. In recent years, major houses like Balenciaga, Kenzo, and Prada have adopted the plush piece into their collections and thus it has trickled down into your closet too.

You likely already possess a solid black puffer jacket for when your faced with an impending polar vortex, but it's unlikely that you look at it and think wow, there are a bounty of styling opportunities ripe for the picking with this puffer — right? That's where a little outfit inspiration comes into play.

Below you'll discover a roundup of refreshing looks all centered around a glorious puffer. Some are ripe for the woman in search of some cold-weather color, others are ideal for the minimalist — but what all of these nine standout outfits have in common is that they are all plenty stylish—sounds amenable, right? Scroll down to check them out and shop the edit of puffers at the end to start experimenting now. Stay warm out there!

@alyssainthecity

A wintery white fisherman sweater styled with dark-wash denim is already a winning combination, why not go for the gold and finish the look off with a color-block puffer and a pretty gold signet ring?

@claire_most

A sportswear-inspired outfit is ideal for casual weekend activities. The combination is simple—pick a vibrantly-colored puffer and style it with your favorite pants and kicks (don't forget the tube socks).

@himichelleli

Playing with contrast and proportions can result in an effortlessly cool look very quickly. A collegiate-inspired plaid pleated skirt is quickly elevated with a lime green top and chunky sneakers. Sheer tights bring everything together and her black puffer solidifies the vibe. A+!

@tylauren

If you're an all black all day kind of woman, then stick to what you know and love. But, experiment a bit by wearing a printed puffer to break up your next noir look.

@laurencaruso_

Layering is one of the most useful skills you can possess as a fashion lover, which is illustrated here with the strategic outerwear combination of a leather jacket and black puffer coat. To finish, wide-leg jeans that feel of the moment and polished booties.

@maria_bernad

There has perhaps never been greater proof that you can and should wear white in the winter than this ensemble right here.

@sabinasocol

Give a subtle nod to 1980s style with a puffer that feels cheery and nostalgic (like Sabina Socol's Polo jacket) and complete the look with easy layering pieces like a tee and jeans.

@vbiancav

Has there been a more timely and fantastic combination than puffer meets fleece meets hiking boots meets scrunchie? I think not.

@shopmcmullen

If you're truly committed to the fashion puffer this winter, then try an embellished iteration like this Stine Goya Taylor Jacket featuring a faux-fur trim. Statement earrings for a fun finale.

Shop Your Next Puffer Jacket