6 Colorful Coats We Can't Wait to Wear This Winter

Horse of a Different Color

This unlined wool topper has the classic cut of a trench—but feels more like a plush blanket, sweeping all the way down to the ankles. Its dusty blue plaid pattern kicks up the visual interest: "It not only polishes a look," says O creative director Adam Glassman, "it is the look," transforming a neutral-tone blouse and crepe trousers underneath.

Coat, Missoni, $5,700; 212-517-9339. Blouse, Reiss, $170; ReissOnline.com. Pants, Sportmax, $595; 212-674-1817. Sweater, Brochu Walker, $445; Katia Boutique, Houston; 713-621-1817. Hat, Gucci, $495; Gucci.com. Ring, Avant Garde, $88; 323-655-5592.

Babe in the City

The anorak made its name as a weekend standby, but with detachable faux-fur trim, a drawstring waist, and slim-fitting cotton fabric, it becomes an unexpectedly chic choice for evening. "Throw it over a cocktail dress or dinner outfit," says Glassman, "and you're fabulously good to go."

Coat, H&M, $129; HM.com for stores. Dress, Muse, $179; Dillards.com. Purse, Stella McCartney, $885; NeimanMarcus.com. Earrings, Kara by Kara Ross, $175; Nordstrom; 800-695-8000. Necklace, Gerard Yosca, $395; Yosca.com. Bracelet, Giles and Brother, $175; GilesAndBrother.com. Heels, J. Crew, $275; JCrew.com.

Flight of Fancy

The neoprene fabric of scuba gear performs well on land, too. This minimalist, voluminous jacket suits fuller figures, chunky sweaters, and anyone who wants to try out fall's richest color. When it's time to fly, it crushes down to fit in your suitcase, then bounces right back.

Jacket, Joe Fresh, $99; JoeFresh.com for stores. Dress, H&M, $60; HM.com for stores.

Rule the Roost

Bold patterns aren't the only way to command attention. This nubby tweed in red-flecked black-and-white wakes up solid colors and muted printed pieces—like this polka-dot dress and lace pumps. "Worn together, they have a lot more impact," Glassman says.

Coat, Derek Lam, $2,990; 212-966-1616. Dress, L.K. Bennett, $375; LKBennet.com. Pumps, Walter Steiger, $795; WalterSteiger.com for stores. Bracelet, Louis Vuitton, $1,090; LouisVuitton.com for stores. Ring, Wendy Mink, $198; CharmAndChain.com. Purse, Express, $60; Express.com.

Whiter Shade of Pale

If you're tempted by arctic white but reluctant to splurge on a trend (especially one that might get dirty easily), consider this peacoat. "It adds a lot of oomph for not a lot of money," says Glassman. It's also universally flattering: Built-in ribbed sleeves create a layered look without the bulk, a dramatic collar frames the face, and bright white perks up any complexion.

Coat,Attention, $100; KMart.com. Dress, See by Chloe, $595; net-a-porter.com. Ring, Isaac Mizrahi New York, $275, by special order; 347-727-2474.

Glamour Puss

A bright buffalo-check pattern—tartan's cooler cousin—gives a puffer jacket some bite. Nowhere near Michelin Man territory, this topper also has a nipped-waist, full-skirted silhouette that looks great with just a simple pair of leggings or jeans.

Coat, Thakoon, $2,650; TheCorner.com. Jeans, Michael Michael Kors, $130; 866-709-5677. Ring, Alexis Bittar, $175; AlexisBittar.com.