Wardrobe Staple no 33 of 33: The Puffer

The puffer, a wardrobe winter classic whether we like it or not, and easily a fashion buzz kill if worn incorrectly. If you live in a super cold environment like I do, a puffer is unavoidable. So I have played with proportions and qualities over the years to dial in the best way to embrace this necessity into my closet. First of all, I ALWAYS opt for the mens section for this purchase. My only exception EVER has been for The North Face 1996 Nupse, and now I wish I had it in the mens for a little more length, as the womens is quite cropped. Go for an overused fit to add the street style cool to this otherwise dowdy coat. I also recommend going for a fun or chic color that will cheer you up in the dead gray of winter. The color should compliment your wardrobe, and also make you smile when you see it. I have chosen all jackets below in the gallery that I have tried and tested myself.

The North Face is the classic go to puffer. I love the mens 1996 and would opt for a size or two larger than my normal size for a Balenciaga/Vetements effect. I also love their longer down puffers for when the winter is really in full effect. End Clothing has all of the cool street and fashion including Stan Ray, Moncler, etc. while Mr. Porter has the high end fashion selection I am sure we will see all over social this winter. ArcTeryx is at the top of the tech game for down and jackets, I am obsessed with their Cerium LT Hoodies as a layer under a tailored coat or on its own. ArcTeryx’s longer, heavier jackets are amongst the warmest and lightest on the market. Mackage is a brand I worked with a few years back, and I fell in love with their higher end down coats with major warmth in the process. I am also in love with Ding Yun Zhang’s puffers but sadly he is not selling them, yet… he remains one to watch.