I’m a Paris-based Fashion Writer, and These 15 Elegant Peacoats Are What Locals Are Wearing This Winter

The Dutch are credited for the original, coarse-wool military and naval jacket dubbed a "pije," which the Brits later popularized as a peacoat. The overcoat was crafted for functionality, to protect wearers from sea winds and the cold. More than 200 years later, this classic piece of outerwear has been tweaked and retouched, molded into a timeless wardrobe staple that exudes elegance.

When I first visited Paris as a 19 year old, I wore a camel-colored version with a tie at the neck and felt every bit as stylish as the French women I was sauntering alongside. Nearly 20 years later and spending half of that time living between Nice and Paris, I've studied how Parisians style their winter wardrobe with variations of double-breasted peacoats that range from structured silhouettes befitting Audrey Hepburn to more effortlessly cool, loose looks that pair perfectly with comfy sneakers — they all make for the ideal travel jacket . From houndstooth and Scottish plaid to chic camel and military-esque navy, here are 15 stylish finds that'll instantly elevate your winter wardrobe — from just $51.

Lucky Brand Bouclé Peacoat Coco Chanel made small-loop knitted bouclé fabric trendy back in the 1950s, and it's been mimicked and reinterpreted in a number of ways since. This version from Lucky Brand is one of the more subtle iterations, placing greater emphasis on the front patch pockets and sleek notched lapels. When winter is in full swing and I need more coverage, this longer look is what I gravitate toward. Winter white is always chic, but I find cream to be a more versatile shade to mix and match with denim, corduroy, and leather pants and skirts. You could even play up the tortoiseshell buttons with a pair of matching sunglasses that'll look just as stylish in Paris as on the slopes in St. Moritz in Switzerland.

Madewell Oversized-collar Short Peacoat Vogue predicted that extravagant collars would trend this fall, and the looks I've seen in Paris couldn't be more on point. Sculptural jackets with oversized collars add flair to classics like a peacoat. This exaggerated notch collar on Madewell's cropped herringbone peacoat adds edge while still maintaining an elegant flair thanks to the gorgeous tailoring, welt front pockets, and luxe fabric (You can't get better than an Italian wool blend!). Peacoats falling mid-thigh can sometimes seem too boxy, so this shorter style is a flattering version that pairs perfectly with long slip dresses and ankle boots as well as with high-waisted, wide-leg denim and a turtleneck cashmere sweater .

J.Crew Faux-fur Leopard Print Peacoat Saying leopard print is having a moment is an understatement. Friends of mine who are loyal to neutrals have never been more intrigued to experiment with animal prints this season. In Paris, I've seen leopard print in pants and purse form, but one retro look making a comeback is the faux-fur coat. J.Crew gives the look a different spin with textured faux fur designed in a peacoat-inspired silhouette, which one shopper said, "Looks and feels so luxurious. I will definitely be wearing this to Paris in February." Proof confirmed. And now on sale for half off, it couldn't be a better time to give this trend a try.

Avec Les Filles Herringbone Peacoat In the fall, Parisians often prefer layering lighter pieces instead of wrapping themselves in a sleeping bag-style puffer. The key is in the quality and fabric of the layers, pairing textures like an airy cotton button-down or a thin cashmere sweater top with a thicker tweed or herringbone weave, like this modernized version of a peacoat. Known for its blend of retro- and runway-influenced outerwear, Avec Les Filles' piece, with its belted cuffs and storm flap, falls like a blazer but has the structure and thickness to keep you warm (and stylish!) as the weather drops.

Liverpool Los Angeles Houndstooth Double Breasted Coat Houndstooth doesn't get the attention it deserves. The Scottish black-and-white checked look is often seen as out-of-date, 1980s-era officewear. But Kate Middleton's modern take on Princess Diana's Moschino suit proves that this pattern has serious lasting power, and is something of an updated power suit, especially when worn as a double-breasted coat. This subtle, black-and-tan version from Liverpool Los Angeles has a polished silhouette that will look sophisticated no matter what you're wearing underneath — which makes travel outfit planning so much easier. The fact that this fabric blend doesn't wrinkle is another major plus.

Chartou Oversize Plaid Peacoat The French sport plaid instead of flannel, and wear it more in the form of a scarf or coat. This vintage-inspired oversized peacoat is the definition of French girl cool — especially when worn over a simple crew-neck long-sleeve top, straight-leg jeans, and retro sneakers. The perfect piece for everyday wear in fall or winter, the knee-length peacoat is a great accent piece to elevate a simple ensemble, and it's practical, as well, since it's well-lined and has enough weight to keep you warm. "I have worn the coat only a few times and have already received lots of compliments," said one shopper , who loved the fit so much that they plan to purchase another one in a different color. While I'm partial to the Burberry-like camel, the other plaid prints are equally as chic. And for the price, you can mix it up with two different versions that won't set you back a ton and will last you all fall and well into the new year.

Yousify Notched Lapel Wool Peacoat The secret behind exuding a certain je ne sais quoi is capturing that effortlessly chic French essence — not looking too done up while still looking put together. Instead of a heavy, super structured double-breasted coat, opt for more of a trench-inspired jacket that has flow to it, yet will still keep you warm in winter. "I get so many compliments on this coat ... it's perfect for layering in winter and not too heavy for spring," raved one shopper . And if you want to change up the look for a night out, cinch it at the waist with a skinny belt for an entirely new ensemble.

Frank & Eileen Mini Belfast Crop Knit Peacoat As I'm prepping my wardrobe for a trip to Cannes next month for a travel conference where glamorous events and parties start in the morning and dwindle until late in the evening, I'm eyeing versatile pieces that can be worn on warmer winter days while still taking the season into consideration. Instead of the obvious blazer, which can feel too much like officewear at times, this French terry jacket, with its double-breasted closure and notched lapels, is a more Brigitte Bardot-inspired style perfect for the South of France. The raw-edge details on the hem and pockets feel less buttoned-up, making it great for everyday wear.

Chouyatou Notched Collar Overcoat Neutrals are always safe bets for winter, but this season, burgundy has made a striking resurgence in everything from footwear to coats (case in point: Charli XCX's burgundy Gucci trench at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art 2024 Art+Film Gala). I've long been a fan of the shade (I'm a loyal devotee of OPI Malaga Wine nail polish) but have yet to incorporate it into my outerwear. This mid-length wool-blend coat, however, is the perfect excuse to sport the shade this season — and for just $58, it's worth the slight splurge.

Avec Les Filles Cocoon Wool Blend Peacoat Winter is the time to embrace textures, and what better way than through outerwear? Another peacoat donning this season's trending oversized lapels, this wooly, cream-colored jacket takes a cue from Chanel's classic tweed, with hints of pastels shining through. Looking every bit as polished as the couture version, this take feels younger (and more approachable) in style and can be worn casually — open and loose over a cropped long-sleeve top and high-waisted trousers or buttoned up over a slick black turtleneck and leather pants for a day running around Paris' Le Grands Magasins department store while holiday shopping.

Everlane The Double-breasted Wool Coat This one's a bit pricey, we know, but the androgynous, dropped-shoulder look is one that won't fade out of fashion. Similar to designer styles from cashmere kings like Loro Piana or Brunello Cucinelli , this near dupe looks much more expensive than it is. Fully lined, the double-breasted coat falls just below the knees and can be layered over a cotton button-down and sweater for a preppy look but can easily transition into an edgier evening ensemble with the right pair of heeled booties and statement structured crossbody bag .

Belle & Bloom Forget You Wool Blend Military Peacoat Pricier French brands like The Kooples are masters of the military-inspired, deep-navy peacoat adorned with signature, gilded crest buttons. A similar style at half the price, this midweight, double-brushed wool-blend peacoat from Belle & Bloom is a more feminine, fashionable take on the traditional outerwear. For a look that's classic and sophisticated, drape it over a cream silk top and camel-colored trousers, or add some edge with a houndstooth sweater and skinny jeans. If it's not too cold, all you need to top off the look is a pair of stocking socks and ballet flats and you'll fit right in while strolling one of Paris' stylish neighborhoods like Le Marais.

Wantdo Mid-long Trench Peacoat With Belt This windproof and warmth-retaining winter overcoat is beautifully tailored inside and out (plus it's anti-pilling). It has a thicker shell for extra warmth and double-breasted storm flap closure that offers protection from unpredictable winter weather. Designed in a style modeled after a trench, this piece is one you can adjust to fit your figure thanks to the buttoned cuffs and removable belt. Shoppers say the material is " so soft, warm but not bulky " and " very well made ," making it a great piece for layering over thicker knits when visiting a city like London this winter. All you'll need is a pair of Chelsea boots , skinny black jeans, and plaid scarf, and you'll have a great day-to-night look perfect for holiday travels.

Free People Sophie Peacoat Free People's oversized, relaxed version of a peacoat is giving 1970s boho vibes, but is a much more pulled-together look than something that would've been worn at Woodstock. This peacoat is sure to make a statement wherever you're traveling this winter, whether that be Aspen, Colorado (in which case, you certainly need a fedora to go along with the look!) or Austria for Christmas markets. I'd pair it with a thick turtleneck top, black leather miniskirt, tights, and thigh-high boots for a look that's equal parts rock-star cool and French-starlet chic à la Daisy Jones & the Six.

Mango Cotton Blend Peacoat A classic is a classic for a reason, and this sleek, dark-navy coat, with its clean, military-style stand collar, is the epitome of Nouvelle Vague, 1960s chic. The structured silhouette instantly elevates any outfit, whether you're wearing a little black dress with tights and micro-kitten heels or denim with a cable-knit sweater. A coat that'll never go out of style, this wardrobe staple is one worth investing in.