Winter’s Armour: The Outerwear Trends That Refuse to Yield to the Snow
From sculptural funnel necks to liquid finishes, this season’s coats are made to be seen — not hidden
Winter doesn’t signal the death of style — it’s the stage for it. The months ahead invite bold silhouettes and tactile drama, not shapeless layers meant to conceal.
The FW25 collections proved that outerwear can be sculpture and shield all at once. Designers showing collections across London, Paris, New York and Milan fashion weeks turned the season’s chill into show-stopping moments, introducing three dominant directions: the funnel neck coat, the revival of shearling and faux fur and the high-shine allure of liquid-look textures.
For those who dress with intent, these pieces extend your aesthetic rather than obscure it. Each trend offers a different form of power — structured, sensual, surreal — echoing the gothic principle that what protects can also seduce.
The Funnel Neck Coat
A sculptural take on the classic overcoat, the funnel neck creates a frame for the face and lends quiet authority to any silhouette. The raised collar replaces the need for a scarf, turning warmth into architecture. Look for heavy wool or structured blends with a clean shoulder line and minimal hardware. Pair it with leather gloves and sharp boots for a look that whispers luxury instead of shouting it. The funnel neck works especially well in black, oxblood, emerald or navy.
Shearling and Faux Fur
The gothic interpretation of shearling isn’t the rugged aviator but the poet in exile — softened by texture, enveloped in warmth. Opt for luxurious long line jackets with exaggerated collars trimmed in faux fur or cropped with a full faux fur effect for added impact. This look beautifully complements soft satin slips with knee-high boots or sculpted trousers with punchy loafers, depending on the mood. The texture becomes an invocation of rebellious comfort, proof that softness can still command a room. When choosing fur (faux or otherwise), seek a matte finish rather than high gloss for an effect that feels vintage rather than costume.
The Liquid Look
Gloss, glaze and metallic movement dominated the FW25 runways. Designers treated fabric as if it were molten — vinyl, PU, lacquered leather, coated nylon flowing like ink under light. These pieces catch every glimmer of winter sun and streetlamp glow, creating an aura that feels almost supernatural. To wear the liquid look, balance high shine with grounding textures. A patent trench over cashmere. A vinyl bomber with wool trousers. The goal is alchemy — the blend of reflective and restrained. Black, pewter and deep jewel tones lend the effect a lunar quality.
Outerwear isn’t an afterthought — it’s the final brushstroke.
This winter, coats are no longer camouflage but declaration. They tell the world you understand that protection and presentation can coexist, that warmth need not come at the expense of wonder.
