Raincoats are often an afterthought when building a winter jacket and coat collection—a layer of doom hanging in the far corner of the closet until the outerwear piece is essential for an impending downpour. As a kid, it seemed like the best raincoats were the least stylish, banned to closet isolation in favor of some of my best jean jackets. But in my adult life, I've learned that some of the most practical pieces are often worth a second look. Lizzy Hadfield, a British content creator who splits her time between two notoriously rainy cities, New York and London, knows a few things about picking out the best raincoats. "Being British means being well versed in the rain," quips Hadfield. She often defaults to British heritage brands, like Barbour, when dressing for wet weather. Her shopping philosophy centers around the basics: mainly, does it keep you dry? "Practical dressing is actually a fun challenge, and it can be chic when done right— it ticks all of the boxes, it can be an effortless part of your [wardrobe] and useful," says Hadfield.
But if you look at the runways, you'll see that modern-day raincoats aren't all about practicality. They can also have a fashion point of view. Simone Rocha designed coiffed, flowy sheer fabrics in the style of long traditional windbreakers with classic bungee ties at their London show, a nod to the girlhood aesthetic trend sweetness. While on Alaïa's Paris runway, rubberized blush-toned jackets offered a high-fashion solution to the rain. My younger self would be delighted with the fashionable raincoat options being revisited, updated, and refreshed.
With raincoat options as tactical or as style-savvy as you'd like, you can match your rain jacket to your mood—and add a matching rain boot while you're at it. Ahead, London-based Marie Claire Digital Director Jenny Hollander, fashion editors, and reviewers weigh in on their picks for the best raincoats that won't compromise on function or style.
Raincoats don't have to be dull. Inspired by tactical rain jackets, Simone Rocha and Alaïa designed high-fashion versions that walked the runways at their Spring 2024 shows
- Best Overall Raincoat: Stutterheim Stockholm Lightweight Raincoat
- Best Puffer Rain Coat: Aritiza The Super Puff™ Shorty
- Best Short Raincoat: OTU Waterproof Hooded Rain Jacket
- Best Designer Raincoat: Burberry Chelsea Belted Double-Breasted Trench Coat
The Best Chic Raincoats for Women
You can't go wrong with this yellow raincoat from Stutterheim. It's available in sizes XS through XXL and made from lightweight material that's packable for travel. It has a straight up-and-down fit that's unisex by nature. Details like snap-closures, a drawstring that stays up, and double-welded seams guarantee you stay dry no matter what. And, if yellow isn't your preferred shade, you can shop this jacket in 12 other colors, like olive green and smokey gray.
Pros: Comes in several colors; Top-rated; Has a drawstring hood
Cons: It may be too long if you're petite.
Customer Review: "Lovely coat. The sizing is great. It keeps you warm and dry. It's lightweight and easy to fold into a bag. The hood stays up and doesn't get blown about by the wind."—Stutterheim.
Best Puffer Rain Coat
Marie Claire’s Digital Director, Jenny Hollander, bought this Super Puff Shortie from Aritzia when she made the move from New York to London as a two-in-one option for the wet London winters. "Let me tell you: For wet days that aren't too cold, this jacket is it," she says. "No amount of rain can break through it—you'll stay warm and dry no matter what—but it isn't as heavy as the Long, which sometimes left me cocooned and sweaty during rainstorms,"
Are you in the mood for a pink raincoat? This pick is perfect if you're indecisive because it's affordable. Plus, it's garnered over 3,000 five-star reviews. One reviewer wrote that they "wanted a lightweight, waterproof jacket with a hood" and that "this jacket delivered in all categories." Other reviewers recommend sizing up if you plan to layer bulky sweaters underneath and order based on your measurements rather than the size that Amazon recommends.
Pros: Costs under $100; Comes in several colors; Top-rated on Amazon; Has a hood.
Cons: Runs small.
Customer Review: "It is very light and comfortable, and the fit is great! I like that it has a drawstring at the waist for a better fit and helps keep the cold air out. The hood covers my head and fits over a hoodie sweatshirt hood. The Velcro at the neck keeps it nicely formed around my face and helps keep wind and rain out"—Amazon.
We can't breach the subject of the best rain jackets without mentioning Burberry, the British brand behind the iconic tan and checkered trenchcoat. Renowned for its plaid fabric-lined design, this rain jacket checks all of the boxes for anyone who finds their style aligning with a quiet luxury aesthetic. This one is made from a water-resistant gabardine fabric—so it's not 100 percent waterproof—but it does have a vented hem at the back and flapped pockets to keep the rain at bay. A detachable belt adds a chic cinched look.
Pros: Lightweight material; Durable; Comes in a versatile color.
Cons: Water resistant rather than waterproof; No hood.
Also Recommended
This top-rated belted rain trench coat from Rains comes in a few colors, but this light tan iteration is my personal favorite— it pairs well with virtually any outfit and is a great silhouette that marries the sophistication of a trench with the sportiness of a windbreaker. The front's higher neckline and the hood's slight extension keep rainwater out, while the lightweight material keeps you from overheating on days when there's fluctuation between rain and sunshine. Reviewers also note that it's waterproof even on heaviest rain days (a downpour can be a challenge for even the toughest of raincoats), but its versatility in both weight and look makes it a great match for days when the forecast calls for dry weather.
Pros: Comes in five colors; Lightweight material; Rated for being waterproof in heavy rain
Cons: Unlined, so it won't add warmth.
Customer Review: "Very chic for a rain jacket or raincoat. From afar, the material can pass off for vegan leather, but obviously, it’s waterproof material. Extremely lightweight. The label says it is designed in Denmark and made in China, but it is very well designed and well made. It is very upscale with the belt, and the hood is also functional, with an additional front flap that can make rainwater slide off and away from you. Came with a strong chemical smell though, like a tarp, but airing it out made the odor dissipate." — Nordstrom
Canada Goose is great at insulation and waterproofing and makes some of my favorite puffer jackets on the market. They also make great raincoats. The Kenora Jacket comes in five colors, including a hot pink and a light yellow, and will keep you warm down to 23 degrees Fahrenheit. You can shop it in sizes 2XS through 2XL in most colorways. It's weatherproofed down to the zippers with a storm guarding (aka a rain shield) across the back that’s meant to keep you dry no matter what direction you're walking.
Pros: Comes in several colors; Warm down to 23 degrees; Completely waterproof.
Cons: Some sizes tend to sell out quickly.
For the woman who works out come rain or shine, here's the Lululemon raincoat. Available in three colors—black (shown here), lavender purple, and olive green—and in sizes 0 through 20, this workout-approved jacket is outfitted with a wind vent at the back for breathability, a hidden drawstring, and an adjustable hood that won't budge as you work out. There's even a hidden phone sleeve so you can stay active while hands-free.
Pros: It comes in several colors, runs true to size, has a hidden drawstring at the waist, and has a hood. It is not good for very cold days.
Cons: Costs over $100; Zipper can be hard to maneuver.
Customer Review: "Really comfortable and cute! It is super light but protects you from the elements. I bought it true to size, and it fits me perfectly." — Lululemon
If you want a simple raincoat that does what it promises and goes with everything in your wardrobe, let me introduce you to this great one from The North Face. It comes in black or gray sizes XS through XXL and has a functional hood—great for rainy days when you forget your rain hat. It's also waterproof and windproof, has a lining for warmth, and is made from 100 percent recycled polyester. Reviewers say it's excellent for warm rainy days and fits true to size.
Pros: It comes in several colors, is made using recycled materials, is waterproof, lined, runs true-to-size, and has a hood.
Cons: Costs over $100; Not suitable for frigid days.
Customer Review: "Perfect fit, waterproof and lightweight." — Nordstrom
Marie Claire's Contributing Editor Katherine J. Igoe suggests this sustainably minded raincoat, made from 14 plastic water bottles, for days when the temperatures are warm but the forecast calls for rain. "I can throw this [in-between jacket] over my existing outfit and stay completely dry. Plus, I'm quite short, so this hits below my knee and usually covers most of what I'm wearing. It's also protective against the wind," she notes.
Pros: Made using recycled materials; Has a hood; Editor-rated
Cons: Unlined; Runs oversized
Customer Review: "I love this coat so much! It runs slightly large but looks nice because it is slightly oversized. I can dress it up or down."—Everlane.
Prada's selection of Re-Nylon shoulder bags and backpacks have been some of the most popular designer bags on the market this year. A matching nylon logo rain jacket can keep the same look going but won't overpower. The jacket’s easy, oversized pullover style will instantly elevate even the simplest of outfits, and the single flapped pocket at the front gives you a hands-free, bag-free flexibility.
Pros: Pullover design; Lightweight; Has a drawstring hood.
Cons: Tends to sell out quickly.
This lightweight and durable raincoat from Columbia comes in 15 colors, including this bright pink shade, ice blue, white, black, peachy pink, and more. It has seam-sealed finishings and a drawstring at the bottom hem to keep the water out, whether drizzle or a heavy downpour. Plus, it packs up small enough to fit into one of the pockets, making it great for taking away on a vacation or camping trip. Oh—and it has over 1,500 five-star reviews on Columbia's website.
Pros: Top-rated; Comes in 15 colors; Lightweight; Packable.
Cons: Runs small.
Customer Review: "I have been looking for a light rain jacket for a long time and came across this; I'm so glad I did. It's very lightweight and will be great for travel. The fit is great, room enough for a sweater underneath and yet comfortable without feeling too big or too small with the sweater, the sleeves are adjustable." — Columbia.
"I've had the same favorite raincoat for many years," says Hadfield. "A [vintage] wax Barbour jacket that belonged to Auntie—it must be almost 50 years old now," she says. Indeed, it's a testament to the brand's longevity. "It's a favorite for sentimental reasons but also because it's the perfect fit and length. It's kept me dry for many years!" Hadfield notes. This quilted, plaid-lined canvas jacket from Barbour has a classic appeal and is, as Hadfield proves, made to last.
Pros: Lined; Runs true-to-size; Durable
The cons are that it costs over $100, only comes in one color, dDoesn't have a hood, and is not warm enough for snow days.
Customer Review: "Lovely jacket, fits perfectly. I went up a size as I want to wear jumpers, etc, underneath, but it still fits well with just a T-shirt. Pockets spacious and collar fits tight around the neck to keep drafts out!" — Bloomingdale's
Best White Rain Jacket
Nothing symbolizes a change in seasons like a white jacket. This one from Jane Post will keep you dry as you ring in the warmer weather. Marie Claire editors love this one because of its clean silhouette and elevated, shiny hardware details. A detachable hood and gold-trimmed buttons add an ere of sophistication. Shop this one in bright pink, black patent, or yellow if this white version doesn't strike your fancy.
Pros: It comes in four colors, is lightweight material, and has a detachable hood.
Cons: White colorway can get dirty quickly.
Best Printed Rain Coat
This vibrantly printed raincoat sets itself apart from many of the neutral options on the market. With its slightly boxy fit, this Free People jacket is the ideal combination of a windbreaker and a traditional raincoat with both attributes. Well-thought-out details like sealed seams and an adjustable bungee chord around the hood mean you can run, hike, or walk amongst the elements.
Pros: Lightweight; Packabable; Has an adjustable hood; Comes in two prints
Cons: Unlined.
Customer Review: "I love this jacket so much! I ordered an XS as it said it was oversized, and I don't need to wear sweaters underneath. I love the colors, and it will serve me well if we have another El Niño winter. I have had many compliments!" — Free People.
What to Look For in a Raincoat
Looking for a raincoat might seem pretty straightforward, but several subtle details make a good raincoat a great one. While it's pretty obvious that raincoats should all be waterproof, some rain jackets are designed for wearing in heavy rain versus light rain. Check the tag when in doubt, look for heavier fabrications for the colder weather, and opt for lighter fabrics, like nylon, for warmer weather. Many of the best raincoat options also have vents for breathability. If you're looking for a durable jacket for commuting, you might want to opt for a knee or calf-length silhouette to keep both your top and bottom half dry, while cropped styles are best suited for movement and exercise. There are also raincoats that can conquer multiple needs at once. Some outdoors-based brands like The North Face create rain jackets that can be worn in three different types of weather, while other brands, like RAINS, boast easy-to-style jackets that come in trendy colors, and will highlight some of the latest spring 2024 trends with a wide selection of seasonal colors and prints.
How to Style a Raincoat
If you need inspiration for styling a raincoat with your wardrobe, Paris Fashion Week street style offered some great inspiration with its dreary two-week weather forecast. Guests nailed the assignment in fashion-forward raincoats paired back seamlessly to their outfits and accessories. This fashion week attendee managed to incorporate a soft blush color palette into her rainy-day look.
This Paris Fashion Week attendee knows that rain doesn't have to keep you at home. The solution? A sleek blush raincoat that seamlessly pairs with some of spring's top trending accessories.
Kendall Jenner is no stranger to a great trench coat; her pantyhose and Bottega Veneta leather trench coat look made waves on the internet. But if a pantless look is not in the cards for you, this caped trench coat from The Row might sway you to explore the many fashion possibilities that come with a great raincoat. Jenner styled hers for dinner in Los Angeles alongside a slightly flared pant and a sleek pair of black heels, proving you don't have to step outside to reap the style rewards of a great rain jacket.
Kendall Jenner proves you don't have to step outside to reap the style rewards of a great rain jacket. This cape-style version is from The Row.
Meet The Expert
Lizzy Hadfield has been amongst the most prominent fashion creators over the past decade, being named by The Sunday Times amongst their ‘Top 100 Influencers’, by Farfetch amongst their ‘Top 10 European Influencers’ and continuing to work with the biggest brands and publications in the fashion space.Now living between London and New York, Lizzy’s social platforms showcase her style tips living between the two fashion capitals – whilst maintaining minimal wardrobe of classic, interchangeable pieces.
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