Key Differences Between Coats vs. Jackets: When To Wear Each

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Many people use the words interchangeably, but there are important distinctions between coats and jackets. While mixing up the terms isn’t a big deal, knowing what each means helps you find the perfect garment for any occasion.

Learn the differences between coats versus jackets to help you choose the best look no matter the weather.

What’s a coat, and when should you wear one?

A coat is designed primarily for warmth, with the hem typically extending at least past the waist and often below the hips. Trench coats are an excellent example, ranging from mid-thigh to ankle length.

Coats are often suitable for formal and semi-formal events, like work and dinner parties. For instance, sport coats offer a professional silhouette but can still provide protection and warmth.

We recommend choosing a coat for inclement weather. The length and thickness add extra protection and keep you comfortable through snowy, rainy, or windy days.

What’s a jacket, and when should you wear one?

Jackets are outer layers that usually sit at the waist or hips, not lower. They’re lighter and more versatile than coats, and depending on the material and fit, many people wear jackets all year long. 

During brisk days when you need a little protection without much bulk, jackets are the perfect choice. They’re also ideal for any look that needs an extra touch of style—and we mean any look because jackets are available in endless styles, colors, and materials.

Warmer jackets are the perfect fall fashion garment, offering mild protection when there’s a chill in the air without bogging you down. But if you’re purely looking to make a fashion statement, you can wear light denim jackets all summer long.

Many types of jackets are more casual than coats, like sporty bomber and varsity jackets. The main exception is the sleek, professional suit jacket, which is even more formal than a sport coat and is usually reserved for offices with strict dress codes.

What’s the difference between a jacket and a coat? 5 key features to consider

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Coats and jackets are essential garments designed to cover the upper body, offering both style and practicality. While jackets, such as bomber jackets and suit jackets, are typically waist-length and often less formal, coats like overcoats, trench coats, and peacoats extend below the waist for added warmth and sophistication.

Here are five features to consider when choosing whether to wear a jacket or a coat.

1. Length

One of the main differences between a coat and a jacket is length. Coats are primarily longer types of winter outerwear, while jackets are shorter, typically sitting at the waist or hip. This also makes jackets sportier with a greater range of movement, ideal for a trip to the gym or a neighborhood jog.

Keep in mind that jackets aren’t always sporty—they can come in a wide variety of styles. For example, frilly boho jackets, like the type sold by Free People or Boot Barn, are loose and breezy, perfect for summer days.

Alternatively, coats reach the hips at a minimum, sometimes hitting the thighs or even ankles, so they provide better insulation and protect more of your body from the cold.

2. Material

Coats and jackets use similar materials, including wool, denim, and leather. The main distinction is that coats have a thicker weave and more insulating layers.

For example, leather jackets typically have a single layer of leather with a thin lining. Leather coats, on the other hand, are thicker and often sport a soft, furry lining.

No matter what style you’re shopping for, thrifting on ThredUp lets you filter by material to zero in on any fabric.

3. Fit

Coats are generally used as winter outerwear, so they fit larger than jackets. You’d wear them over an entire outfit, enjoying enough room for baggy shirts and sweaters underneath.

Jackets fit closer to the body, with minimal space underneath (just enough for a thin shirt or simple dress). This makes them an excellent complement to an outfit rather than just a covering.

4. Warmth

Coats are designed for cold, windy, wet weather. They’re much warmer than jackets, contain multiple insulated layers, and reach down to at least the hips so they protect your upper and lower body. 

And when comparing winter coats versus jackets, there’s an even bigger difference. Winter coats are even warmer than regular coats, often including fur elements, wind-resistant lining, and extra insulation.

Many jacket styles, however, are intended for cool or brisk weather (think fall or spring), but some are purely aesthetic, like mesh and lace jackets. 

5. Style

Another key difference between these two garments is their style. While coats can be fashionable, their design often prioritizes functionality, like warmth and weatherproofing. Super puffy down jackets may make you look a bit like a marshmallow, but you’ll definitely be able to weather the snow!

On the other hand, jackets come in a wide variety of styles to suit any outfit. From refined blazers to casual shirt jackets, these garments add the finishing touch to every look.

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Find your perfect outerwear match on ThredUp

With so many options available, shopping for outerwear online can feel overwhelming. But it's easier to narrow down your choices when you understand the differences between coats and jackets. Whether you need a cozy wool coat for a cold outing or a chic jacket to match your personal style, ThredUp has you covered.

Our Improved Search feature makes it easy to find the perfect outerwear. Simply describe the outfit you’re trying to create (or even upload an image), and let AI suggest results for your new look. You can discover name-brand pieces for more than half off retail pricing, and thrifting keeps these garments out of landfills. 

Shop on ThredUp to snag a coat or jacket for any occasion—sustainably and conveniently.

FAQs

Are coats better than jackets?

Coats aren’t necessarily better than jackets — the right garment just depends on the occasion. We recommend that you have at least one of each: a warmer coat to protect you against the elements and a lighter jacket for breezy days.

Is a coat or jacket better for winter?

Winter coats are the best choice for the season, since they’re usually insulated. These garments have multiple layers and thicker linings to keep you warm. If you live in a particularly cold place, choose a longer coat to keep your legs safe from wind and snow.

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