There comes a point in the cozy days of fall when the season reaches its pinnacle. This glorious but brief period is a delicious sliver out of the annual weather pie where the temperature is at its most perfect: crisp but not too cold, sunny without being hot, layers recommended but not required. It’s a time of year when you can still keep that puffer jacket packed away, but an oversize sweater is no longer enough to do the trick. So what’s a person to wear throughout this beautiful state of living in the in-between? Make way for the coatigan.
The coatigan is a hybrid wardrobe essential for transitional weather that’s not entirely a coat but not exactly a cardigan sweater either. Instead, the coatigan is a stylish, happy medium that happens to make an excellent chilly office essential. From light and lengthy dusters to heavier, more structured silhouettes, the options for staying warm without overheating are abundant. While some coatigans can be hooded or belted at the waist, others are designed for layering so you can pile on plenty of garments and accessories as winter draws near.
So let us welcome you to the best part of autumn with a selection of coatigans (or coat-like cardigans, depending on which one you pick) to prep your closet accordingly.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
For more can’t-miss shopping stories delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our Most Wanted newsletter.
Duster Coatigans
Long dusters are an essential piece for the colder months. It’s perfect to layer on top of loungewear at home or over a long-sleeve dress for when the weather is brisk.
Eloquii Long Cardigan Duster, $, available at Eloquii
Torrid Chunky Duster Sweater, $, available at Torrid
Pilcro Cable-Knit Cardigan Sweater, $, available at Anthropologie
Quince Mongolian Cashmere Duster Cardigan Sweater, $, available at Quince
Zara Long Patch Cardigan, $, available at Zara
Boden Longline Fluffy Cardigan, $, available at Boden
Structured Coatigans
Are coats too heavy for the time being? Opt for a thinner coatigan with the feel of a sweater but an aesthetic inspired by oversized outerwear.
J. Crew Ella Open-Front Long Sweater-Blazer, $, available at J. Crew
Gentle Herd High-Neck Wool-Camel Hair Long Cardigan With Pockets, $, available at Gentle Herd
Reformation Liam Cashmere Long Cardigan, $, available at Reformation
Show Me Your Mumu Melrose Sweater Jacket, $, available at Revolve
Monrow Supersoft Sweater Knit Cardigan, $, available at Monrow
Belted Coatigans
Imagine being able to wear a robe anywhere, running outside to pick up a delivery, or wrapping around your favorite PJs for a weekend in. The belted silhouette is a must-have to keep you oh so toasty.
Jenni Kayne Belted Sweater Coat, $, available at Jenni Kayne
Karen Millen Shawl Neck Belted Rib Cardigan, $, available at KAREN MILLEN
Staud Marigold Melange Belted Cardigan, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Uniqlo Souffle Yarn Belted Knitted Coat, $, available at Uniqlo
White + Warren Wool Blend Striped Duster, $, available at White + Warren
Hooded Coatigans
Forget the idea that you can’t have comfort and style. A coatigan lets you have both.
Free People Crofter Cardi, $, available at Free People
Ugg Judith Long Cardigan, $, available at Nordstrom
M Lounge Ultimate Maxi Cardigan With Hood, $, available at ASOS
Splendid Thermal Cardigan With Hood, $, available at Shopbop
Jenni Kayne Sweater Coat, $, available at Jenni Kayne
Quince Mongolian Cashmere Open Cardigan Sweater, $, available at Quince
Mango Fringe Wool-Blend Coat, $, available at Mango
Everlane The Cozy-Stretch Duster, $, available at Everlane
Marine Layer Corbet Coatigan, $, available at Nordstrom
Free People Off Duty Oversized Poncho, $, available at Free People
Madewell Courton Sweater Coat, $, available at Madewell
WVN. Embrace Cardigan, $, available at WVN.
Maeve Longline Eyelash Cardigan, $, available at Anthropologie
Farm Rio Rainbow Stripes Maxi Cardigan, $, available at Farm Rio
Out From Under Houston Hooded Cardigan, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Lysse Precious Sweater Coat, $, available at Verishop
Missguided Plus Size Lilac Tuck Sleeve Cardigan, $, available at Missguided
BDG Presley Longline Cardigan, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Alex Mill Romy Long Cardigan, $, available at Alex Mill
MeroKeety Chunky Cardigan Open Front Sweater Coat, $, available at Amazon
Vince Clean Edge Cardigan Coat, $, available at Shopbop
Eloquii Relaxed Robe Coat, $, available at Eloquii
Joseph Longline Ribbed-Knit Merino Wool Cardigan, $, available at Matches Fashion
Jack Jack by BB Dakota Womens Ready to Ruffle Knit Coat, deep navy medium, $, available at Amazon
Reformation Greenwich Coat, $, available at Reformation
Uniqlo Double Face Short Coat, $, available at Uniqlo
BB Dakota To Be Fair Isle Cardigan, $, available at Verishop
futurino Chunky Twist Oversized Cardigan Jacket, $, available at Amazon
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Cozy Loungewear Gifts For Comfort Connoisseurs
