I'm shopping for a winter coat, and these options under $500 have grabbed my attention.

      When it comes to investment pieces, particularly outerwear, I generally prefer timeless styles over trendy ones. However, the two winter coat trends I've been drawn to that seem less temporary are those featuring funnel necks or faux fur. My favorite wool coat at the moment is the Oversized Coat by Filippa Hagg, but since it doesn’t fasten all the way up, I find it more appropriate for fall or for temperatures that aren’t as harsh as a New York winter. Recently, I've been on the lookout for a higher-neck option that feels both practical for the cold and stylish. Then there's vintage or faux fur, which I adore for its ability to instantly enhance any outfit, regardless of how simple it is. It has a glamorous vibe that always reminds me of Cate Blanchett in Carol.

      With outerwear on my mind, I decided to browse through retailers and brands like Nordstrom, Net-a-Porter, Saks Fifth Avenue, COS, Rue Sophie, and others to see what options were available. Below are the best selections I've found under $500 while searching.

      Audry Hiaoui is a New York-based writer for Who What Wear, focusing on emerging designers, independent labels, and brand discovery, along with conducting interviews both in person and on camera. Her work has appeared in AnOther, Wonderland, Office, Interview, Love, and i-D, among others, featuring multiple cover stories and print features. She has also been an editorial producer for Vogue during fashion months. Audry holds a master's degree in journalism and documentary filmmaking from City, University of London, and has a strong background in film, having worked for Sundance Film Festival, SXSW, and Vice UK, as well as on various projects including documentaries and music videos, and most recently as a writer's assistant for an upcoming HBO/A24 series.