Fashion Clothing The 10 Best Raincoats That’ll Keep You Both Stylish and Dry Eddie Bauer’s Charly Parka wins our top pick. By Linne Halpern Linne Halpern Linne Halpern is a Denver-based freelance writer. She is a regular contributor to Architectural Digest and publishing work in other outlets including Domino, Coveteur, and Teen Vogue. As a Commerce Writer for InStyle, she shares her favorite fashion brands and must-have beauty products. InStyle's editorial guidelines Updated on November 15, 2022 @ 05:30PM Pin Share Tweet Email In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews What to Keep in Mind Your Questions, Answered Why Trust InStyle In This Article We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Nordstrom / Eddie Bauer / Pantagonia Ever been caught in a downpour without a raincoat? Or, maybe you had a raincoat, but it barely did its job, somehow still leaving you soaked? We feel you. Shopping for a raincoat can be tricky, it presents a unique challenge of achieving both function and fashion. Plus, different styles serve different purposes, and it’s important to consider your personal lifestyle needs when selecting a raincoat. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight layer to throw on for grocery store runs, a sophisticated trench for commuting to those serious business meetings, or a packable jacket for weather episodes on a hiking trip, there’s a specific raincoat out there for you. We’ve done the work of researching the market and consulting expert opinions for you, pulling together options for everyone to love. 11 Best Rain Boots for Women of 2022 That Are Comfortable and Stylish Wardrobe stylist Hallie Abrams and curvy style influencer Louise O’Reilly offer their fashion-forward insights, while Sr. Designer at Eddie Bauer Tasha Tennant provides technical fabrics and features knowledge. “I always look for practicality with a twist of chic,” says O’Reilly. A great rule to follow. Overall, the Eddie Bauer Charly Parka is our top pick, mixing streamlined style with effective details. Stay dry out there with the 10 best raincoats for women. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Eddie Bauer Charly Parka at Eddiebauer.com Jump to Review Best Value: RAINS A-Line Hooded Jacket at Rains.com Jump to Review Best Hooded: Lululemon Rain Rebel Jacket at Lululemon Jump to Review Best Long: Stutterheim Mayfair Green at Stutterheim.com Jump to Review Best Trench: J.Crew New Icon Trench at Jcrew.com Jump to Review Best Plus Size: Land's End Women's Plus Size Insulated Winter Stadium Coat at Landsend.com Jump to Review Best Lightweight: The North Face Antora Rain Hoodie at Thenorthface.com Jump to Review Best Insulated: Patagonia Great Falls Insulated Parka at Patagonia.com Jump to Review Best Vinyl: Hunter Play Transparent Vinyl Waterproof Parka at Hunterboots.com Jump to Review Best Designer: Burberry Kensington Cotton Trench Coat at Nordstrom Jump to Review Best Overall: Eddie Bauer Charly Parka Eddie Bauer View On Eddiebauer.com What We Love: This coat mixes technical details with a sophisticated look.What We Don’t Love: The slim style might make it difficult to layer heavy sweaters underneath. Form meets function in this classic Eddie Bauer raincoat. With an esteemed outdoor brand like Eddie Bauer, you know you’re getting the best in innovative fabrications, like this jacket’s patented StormRepel technology that promises a super long-lasting moisture-shedding finish. But we really love that this streamlined style is sleek and sophisticated enough for your city commute. It comes in a chic navy, a classic black, or yellow for a pop of brightness on a rainy day. Its mid-weight and mid-length render it ideal for a variety of outings, and its relaxed fit is designed to comfortably top other layers for seasonless appeal. Plus, it comes in a wide-range of size options, from petite to plus. However, you may not be able to fit super heavy sweaters underneath, considering the fit is a bit more slim. Price at time of publish: $199 Sizes: XS-XL | Material: DWR cotton and nylon | Colors: 4 Best Value: RAINS A-Line Hooded Jacket Rains View On Rains.com What We Love: This chic a-line cut is under $130 and comes in an array of cool colors.What We Don’t Love: This cult-favorite brand sells out frequently. RAINS is dominating the raincoat market right now and for good reason. Their fashion-forward styles feature elegant silhouettes, of-the-moment colors, and (for the most part) under $150 price tags. They’re beloved by fashion stylists and editors for their clean, modern look. “RAINS makes a solid, nondescript raincoat that can be dressed up or down, and at a great price,” says Hallie Abrams. We love the roomy and relaxed frame of this a-line jacket and its ultra-lightweight feel. And, not only does it have an adjustable drawstring hood, it also boasts a street-style-worthy built-in cap brim that’ll help keep rain out of your eyes (especially great for glasses-wearers like me). Price at time of publish: $125 Sizes: XS-XL | Material: Polyester with polyurethane coating | Colors: 6 Best Hooded: Lululemon Rain Rebel Jacket Lululemon View On Lululemon What We Love: This breathable jacket has a sweat-proof liner for those humid rainy days.What We Don’t Love: Some reviewers noted that the sleeves are a little long. This breathable, lightweight rain jacket is an all-around pick for life on-the-go. Its many pockets (both exterior and interior) make schlepping your stuff easy on a rainy day commute — especially with a hidden sleeve just for your phone. We’re big fans of the Olive color that can definitely be worn as a neutral. “Just like when building a clothing wardrobe, I recommend starting with basics and solids first — those pieces are more versatile. They can mix and match to create many outfit options,” shares Abrams. And we’re excited to see that brand is now offering up to size 20. Price at time of publish: $228 Sizes: 0-20 | Material: Waterproof polyester | Colors: 3 Best Long: Stutterheim Mayfair Green Stutterheim View On Stutterheim.com What We Love: It doesn’t get much more chic than this modern long trench.What We Don’t Love: Sadly, there’s no hood on this jacket. This mid-weight trench is designed for more mild weather (it doesn’t have a hood), but it sure makes up for that in style points. “Typically, trench coats do not have hoods,” says Abrams. “But they’re a perfect raincoat for someone that is looking for some rain protection, wants to look polished and fashionable, and will also be carrying an umbrella.” Stutterheim’s version stands out for its clean lines, oversized collar, and relaxed fit. It’ll instantly elevate any outfit, whether you’re throwing it on over sweats, jeans, or a more formal dress. “Right now, I’m loving a trench that hits a bit longer, like mid-calf to ankle,” adds Abrams. It feels simultaneously trendy and timeless. Price at time of publish: $450 Sizes: XXXS-XXL | Material: Rubberized cotton | Colors: Dark Green | Features: Welded seams, hidden button closure, adjustable waist straps, detachable storm flap, extra large pockets Best Trench: J.Crew New Icon Trench J Crew View On Jcrew.com What We Love: This is a rare unicorn — a trench with a hood!What We Don’t Love: Some reviewers noted that this jacket is narrow under the arm, so take note if you plan to layer heavy sweaters underneath. Similar to the Stutterheim trench, this one is as classic as they come, but with a few key upgrades. Water-repellent fabric and a detachable hood really turn the stylish silhouette into an effective multi-purpose raincoat. “This J.Crew find ticks various practical and style boxes, from the relaxed cut and mid-length to the removable hood,” says O’Reilly. “It’s a timeless piece with attention to detail that will last in your wardrobe.” The style is adaptable for any season, any weather, and any occasion — dressed up or down, and ranges from size 0 to 24. “Nothing is more chic than pairing this with a crisp white shirt and blue wash denim,” adds O’Reilly. Price at time of publish: $348 Sizes: 0-24 | Material: Water-repellent cotton | Colors: Khaki Best Plus Size: Land's End Women's Plus Size Squall Waterproof Insulated Winter Stadium Coat Land's End View On Landsend.com What We Love: The cinched waist looks flattering on everyone.What We Don’t Love: You might overheat in slightly warmer weather. We’re all about a raincoat that gives your waistline definition and style an elegant touch. O’Reilly loves anything that cinches the waistline because it offers a more flattering fit that highlights your curves. This coat feels a bit more structured than the J.Crew or Stutterheim trenches. The longer length will keep your entire outfit dry, while the material will keep you warm on brisk, rainy days. You could easily layer clothing underneath it, too, but you probably won’t need to — the waterproof material comes insulated, making it appropriate for cold, winter weather with sleet or icy rain. Price at time of publish: $215 Sizes: 1X-3X | Material: Waterproof Nylon | Colors: 4 Best Lightweight: The North Face Antora Rain Hoodie North Face View On Thenorthface.com What We Love: This lightweight jacket is made from 100 percent recyclable materials.What We Don’t Love: If you’re looking for a shorter style, this is great, but it could be slightly cropped if you’re on the taller side. Though the brand calls this a “hoodie,” it's really more of a lightweight hooded jacket with a boxy, hoodie-like silhouette. The short cut may not provide as much rain protection as something longer, but it’s practical and cute for your daily commute or even a quick hike. The fabric is light enough that you could tie this around your waist or throw it into a tote once it’s dry. The blue and white colors feel fresh, but still neutral — and we love that this piece is available in sizes XXS to 3XL. Plus, it’s made from 100 percent recycled materials and features an adjustable drawcord hem so you can style it as loose or fitted as you like. Price at time of publish: $109 Sizes: XXS-3XL | Material: Recycled fabrics | Colors: 3 Best Insulated: Patagonia Great Falls Insulated Parka Patagonia View On Patagonia.com What We Love: This parka will keep you super warm for those days when rain quickly turns to freezing hail.What We Don’t Love: This is a heavy winter coat that also happens to be waterproof, as opposed to a standard rain jacket. Another option made from 100 percent recycled materials! As a Colorado girl, I’m obsessed with all things Patagonia. The brand is the best of the best when it comes to sustainable practices (the owners recently gave away the entire company to planet-saving environmental organizations). I’ve backpacked in the brand’s goods and can attest that they’ll keep you dry and warm. This parka is great because it’s functionally a winter coat (and feels cozy as such on the inside), but has a waterproof finish that makes it ideal for those transitional days where you have no clue what the weather might do. I especially love the rib-knit cuffs that don’t interfere with gloves and the roomy shoulders that allow for oversized layers. Price at time of publish: $369 Sizes: XS-XL | Material: Recycled polyester | Colors: 3 Best Vinyl: Hunter Play Transparent Vinyl Waterproof Parka Hunter View On Hunterboots.com What We Love: The transparency of the white color has a cool look, allowing you to see through to your outfit underneath.What We Don’t Love: This product is very oversized, be sure to size down if you’re interested in a closer fit. I used to work at a clothing boutique and we sold countless units of this Hunter raincoat. Customers loved it because it’s practical, yet fashionable. And its rubberized vinyl is truly waterproof — it feels quite thick and a bit stiff, but it really works. This isn’t the raincoat you want to throw in a backpack for an afternoon hike (I wouldn’t call it packable), but it has such a fun look for everyday life. The white color is my favorite because it's transparent enough to see your actual outfit. No more rainy days ruining your style! Also, because this material isn’t as lightweight as others, the underarm vents are especially helpful and the reversed entry pockets are truly genius (why don’t these exist on more raincoats?!). Don’t forget to size down, the “oversized” fit is no joke. Price at time of publish: $215 Sizes: XXS-XL | Material: Vinyl | Colors: 3 Best Designer: Burberry Kensington Cotton Trench Coat Nordstrom View On Nordstrom What We Love: This trench was first designed in 1879 and it looks just as stylish and modern today.What We Don’t Love: The fit runs narrow, we’d recommend sizing up. “Burberry is a heritage brand with a cult-like following for a reason,” says Abrams. It doesn’t get more classic than their signature trench. Essentially, it’s what the J.Crew version was modeled after (and to great effect), but this is the original. They make several models with differing variations, while the Kensington Cotton is the weatherproof version. The quality is impeccable and the ability to pop your collar and reveal the historic Burberry check is iconic. The leather-trimmed belt oozes chic belt. If you’re seriously committed to the trench and looking to invest in a designer piece, there’s no other way to go. Price at time of publish: $2,490 Sizes: 0-16 | Material: Weatherized cotton | Colors: Honey What to Keep in Mind Material & Features Most raincoats come in weather-treated cotton, nylon, or polyester. “DWR” is an acronym you’ll see often, meaning durable water repellent. Different base fabrics, like cotton and nylon, can be treated with a DWR coating. Be sure to select the raincoat material that best matches your intended use for the product. “Waterproof jackets are necessary for rainy commutes or hiking, while water repellent jackets are great for running errands or going to the gym,” explains Tasha Tennant, Sr. Designer at Eddie Bauer. In terms of features, it depends on your personal needs. “Internal secure chest pockets for stashing a credit card, protective hoods, and dual entry hand pockets, which are made with a top entry and side entry providing extra room for stashing your phone & AirPods,” are all great additions to look for, according to Tennant. Lifestyle & Activities With an item as particular as a raincoat, function must be heavily accounted for, in addition to fashion. “When it comes to my clients,” shares Abrams, “I like to keep in mind the climate they live in, how often and for how long they’re exposed to the elements, if they travel by car or public transportation, if they like to carry an umbrella or not.” If you spend a significant amount of time outside, Abrams recommends stocking your wardrobe with two different raincoats. “Personally, I keep a trench for when I want to look more put together,” she says, “and a more practical hooded coat for everything from attending my kids’ soccer games to hiking and grocery store runs. I find each is needed for different occasions.” Your Questions, Answered What makes a raincoat waterproof? There are different levels of waterproofing that depend on the materials used. Labels such as “water resistant,” “water repellent,” and “waterproof” all offer different layers of protection. Tasha Tennant breaks down these descriptors for us: Water Resistant: “Water resistant outerwear is made with tightly constructed woven fabrics. Jackets labeled water resistant are from the fabrication itself as it provides a barrier between you and light rain,” says Tennant. A jacket like the Burberry Kensington Cotton Trench Coat offers water resistant protection. Water Repellent: This is the technology you’ll most commonly see when shopping for jackets. “Water repellent outerwear is made with materials treated with DWR coatings,” explains Tennant. “The coatings make water bead up on the surface of the fabric, making it difficult for rain to penetrate the jacket during rain showers.” The J.Crew New Icon Trench is an example of water repellent styles. Waterproof: Waterproof is the labeling you should look for if you plan on getting caught in an actual downpour, whether you walk to work or partake in high alpine hiking. “Waterproof products are made with layered fabrics which have hydrophilic properties that wick moisture away from the body on the inside and repel water on the outside. Waterproof jackets are also designed with sealed seams which add another layer of protection by keeping water out at the seams of the jacket,” says Tennant. The Eddie Bauer Charly Parka, RAINS A-Line Hooded Jacket, Lululemon Rain Rebel Jacket, and Patagonia Great Falls Insulated Parka all provide guaranteed waterproofing, which offers superior protection in heavy rain, according to Tennant. How do you wash a raincoat? Though some products require specific care and you should always read the instructions on the website or clothing label, here are a few general rules of thumb from a technical designer. “Machine wash cold, delicate, and separate, use mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly and tumble dry low for best results,” explains Tennant. “You shouldn’t iron or steam, dry clean, bleach, or use fabric softeners on a raincoat,” she adds. Why Trust InStyle Linne Halpern is a freelance fashion, beauty, and lifestyle writer. She is a member of InStyle’s evergreen commerce team where she extensively tests and reviews countless products. For this story, she interviewed wardrobe stylist Hallie Abrams and curvy style influencer Louise O’Reilly for fashion-minded takes on all things raincoats. And Tasha Tennant, Sr. Designer at Eddie Bauer, contributed technical commentary about weatherproof materials and product care. Taken together, these sources offer invaluable insight on how to select the best raincoat for your lifestyle. The 12 Best Snow Boots of 2022 for a Cozy Winter