I'm shopping for a winter coat—these options under $500 really stood out to me.

      When selecting investment pieces, particularly outerwear, I typically prefer classic styles over trendy ones. However, there are two winter coat trends I find more enduring that I am currently drawn to: funnel necks and faux fur. My preferred wool coat at the moment is the Oversized Coat by Filippa Hagg, but since it doesn't fasten fully, I think it’s more appropriate for fall or milder temperatures than those typical of a New York winter. Consequently, I've been on the lookout for a higher-neck option that is practical for colder weather yet still looks polished.

      As for vintage or faux fur, I appreciate how it can instantly elevate any outfit, regardless of how basic it may be. It exudes a glamorous vibe, reminding me of Cate Blanchett's character in Carol. With outerwear in mind, I decided to explore various retailers and brands, including Nordstrom, Net-a-Porter, Saks Fifth Avenue, COS, Rue Sophie, and others, to see what I could discover. Below are the best options under $500 that I came across during my search.

      Audry Hiaoui is a writer based in New York. For Who What Wear, she focuses on emerging designers, independent labels, and brand discovery, along with conducting interviews on and off camera. Her work has been featured in AnOther, Wonderland, Office, Interview, Love, and i-D, among others, with several cover stories and features in print. She has also served as 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 rich background in film, having worked with 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 on an upcoming HBO/A24 series.