I requested my fellow fashion editors to curate their favorite winter teddy coats—here’s what they selected.

      As we progress further into winter, the need to invest in a suitable coat, jacket, or outerwear to fend off the biting cold becomes increasingly essential. This season has seen a heightened interest in more fashion-forward styles, including funnel-neck jackets, floor-length wool coats, and pieces with convenient scarf features. However, one particular coat style has risen prominently each winter since 2013. Influencers, celebrities, and street-style icons have continuously supported this garment since its debut on the Max Mara runway, proving its resilience against fleeting trends and whimsical fads, and securing its place among fashion's most coveted items. I am, of course, referring to the teddy coat.

      A testament to its enduring appeal, Taylor Swift was recently spotted in Max Mara's Short Teddy Bear Icon Coat in a stylish beige hue. She paired it with a khaki crew-neck sweater, a tartan miniskirt, and charcoal knee-high suede heeled boots, presenting a sophisticated yet subtly affluent take on prep style, thereby enhancing the coat’s celebrity status. To explore the reasons behind the teddy coat's lasting popularity, I consulted a select group of industry experts for their insights and styling tips, and, as is customary at Who What Wear UK, I tried on a variety of styles with assistance from some of my chicest colleagues. From high-end pieces to offerings from emerging brands and chic, affordable options from high-street retailers, I've curated a list of ideal teddy coats for every preference and budget, so you can make a worthwhile investment destined to become your cherished winter staple year after year. Continue reading to discover the best teddy coats.

      Are Teddy Coats a Timeless Style?

      "Absolutely," acknowledges Ian Griffiths, creative director of Max Mara. "The teddy bear coat has been among Max Mara's best-sellers since its inception in 2013. Thirteen years later, the demand for the teddy bear coat continues unabated. Therefore, it can genuinely be described as a timeless piece or an object of enduring desire." "Teddy coats return year after year due to their true timelessness," confirms celebrity stylist Emma Lane. "They are cozy, practical, and endlessly versatile, making them the go-to item when temperatures dip. As we move into 2025 and 2026, there is a renewed craving for comfort that maintains a chic edge. Teddy coats perfectly satisfy that need. Their silhouette and texture exude luxury while remaining laid-back, ensuring they never go out of fashion. Designers reinterpret them each season, yet their core allure remains: they provide warmth, softness, and instant flair to any outfit. It’s a garment that clients regularly choose, season after season."

      What Is the Inspiration Behind the Teddy Coat?

      "Well, the name gives it away," says Griffiths. "I observed people attaching small toys to their bags and keys, reminiscent of children’s toys. This seemed emblematic of a longing to revert to childhood in a daunting world. I sought to create something that offers profound comfort. In Italian, the word 'coccole' means 'cuddle'; I wanted a coat that envelops you like a parent would a child. I envisioned a coat that resembles a large pet bear, akin to a cherished childhood toy."

      Is the Teddy Coat Meant to Be Oversized?

      "We first introduced it in 2013, and its size was surprising since everything else was smaller at the time. The Max Mara teddy bear coat is intentionally designed to be large and should be worn that way," Griffiths explains. "Its success stems partly from defying the fashion norms of its time."

      What Makes the Teddy Coat the Perfect Winter Coat?

      "When you try it on, it feels incredibly light yet warm. Its volume is thoroughly cuddly," adds Griffiths. "Teddy coats are the ultimate winter essential because they check all boxes: they’re super cozy, stylish, and immensely comfortable, providing you with a three-in-one experience," Lane asserts. "They instantly provide warmth without sacrificing style."

      How Can I Style a Teddy Coat?

      "The teddy coat is versatile for any occasion," states Irene Kostas, creative director of Onar Studios. "It can transition from day to night and works well with sneakers or heels. I enjoy pairing it with a silk scarf and a minimalist pillbox hat." "One of the best attributes of a teddy coat is its styling versatility. You could keep it casual with loafers, jeans, and a cashmere sweater for a relaxed daytime look or elevate it with black tights, heels, and a little black dress underneath. It transitions effortlessly from daywear to elegance," Lane suggests.

      Which Celebrities Have Been Spotted in Teddy Coats?

      "Most recently, Taylor Swift. It’s been worn by many, including Jennifer Lopez, Julia Roberts, Lady Gaga, Cardi B, and Beyoncé. Just when you think its popularity might fade, another celebrity is seen in it, ensuring it never loses its appeal," Griffiths states