Since the announcement that Oasis is back together, there’s one piece of outerwear that has been at the forefront of our minds.
The humble parka has served as a uniform for the Gallagher brothers since they debuted back in 1991, resulting in the later establishment of Liam Gallager’s Pretty Green in 2009 which specialises in the army green sartorial staple.
With Britpop style being back and better than ever, it seems only fitting that parkas are once again having their moment. Once upon a time, in the early 2010s, you’d struggle to see past a sea of Topshop khaki parkas with faux fur trimmings when walking down Oxford Street. Glastonbury especially was chock-full of the outerwear piece, with rockstar girlfriends like Alexa Chung and Kate Moss sporting them with a pair of Hunter wellies at the Pyramid Stage.
The genderless appeal of the loose-fitting, casually cool garment endured for roughly a decade before getting the boot, with classic quiet luxury trench coats taking the lead from 2020 onwards. Nevertheless, nostalgia has come around quicker than we can comfortably call our old Miss Selfridge clothes ‘vintage’, and kids and adults alike are re-embracing the style associated with an iconic period in British music history.
The invention of the parka (known as the amauti) is credited to the Inuit tribes of the Canadian Arctic, and the silhouette was adopted and adapted by the US Army during the Second World War. First came the N-3 Arctic parka, followed by the fishtail M-51 which was designed for the Korean War to provide warmth and mobility. These styles later became popular among fringe movements and hippies who bought them cheap from army surplus stores.
Rooted in utilitarian history and undeniably chic, parka coats are an autumn/winter staple for a reason. Insulating without causing you to overheat, light enough to wear layers underneath, and almost always coated in a waterproof material, if you don’t have one yet – it’s time to add one to your wardrobe.
We’ve curated a selection of the best parkas for women this season. Keep scrolling to stay warm, dry and effortlessly stylish.
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Max Mara Reversible water-repellent cotton parka
Though the price is steep, this reversible coat offers two styles in one which you can switch between depending on your sartorial mood. It’s crafted from water-repellent technical cotton and features an adjustable waist drawstring, stud-fastening side pockets and removable quilted padding.
Buy now £710.00, Max Mara
Sweaty Betty Motion Longline Waterproof Parka
This trench-parka hybrid is realised in a delightful pine green hue and boasts the impressive tech specs of a classic piece from Sweaty Betty. It’s fully waterproof and made from 100 per cent recycled fabric, has both an adjustable collar and toggled waistline, a removable hood and a series of utilitarian popper pockets.
Buy now £220.00, Sweaty Betty
Didriksons Sonja Waterproof Parka Jacket
With a slightly more feminine silhouette, this Didriksons waterproof parka is perfect for curating a smart-casual look in inclement weather. It’s offered in three neutral colourways and is cut from a windproof and breathable polyester.
Buy now £270.00, John Lewis
Women's Emila Quilted Jacket in Dark Khaki Navy
Lightweight, insulating and value-for-money, this water-repellent quilted jacket by Regatta offers durable protection against the elements. Complete with Warmloft down-touch insulation and a 100 per cent polyester taffeta lining, we’re big fans of the dropped-shoulder silhouette and detachable second hood.
Buy now £55.95, Regatta
Nudie Barbro Parka
Perfect for those who tend to overheat in classic winter outerwear, this lightweight and waterproof parka by Nudie Jeans is made from a papery poplin which is crafted from organic cotton. It has a roomy, relaxed fit suitable for all your layering needs.
Buy now £479.00, END
Clyde Trench Coat
We know it’s more of a trench than a parka, but its khaki green hue has to count for something, doesn’t it? The subtle gingham lining adds oodles of character, while the classic collar offers a smart, 1950s-style cut.
Buy now £275.00, Sezane
Burberry Lightweight Parka
A true heritage piece designed to last generations, this lightweight parka by Burberry is embroidered with the brand’s classic Equestrian Knight design and lined in timeless Burberry check for a pop of fun. Choose between the natural, relaxed fit or cinch at the waist with the integrated draw cord.
Buy now £990.00, Burberry
66°North Kría Long Shell Coat
If you’re a trench lover, this longline waist-cinched coat from 66°North combines your favourite silhouette with wind-stopping and waterproof fabric. Definitely the chic way to do Gore-Tex.
Buy now £590.00, 66°North
Holland Cooper One-Size Waterproof Coat
Made for countryside dwellers and regular equestrians, this oversized coat offers maximum protection against British weather. It features over-the-knee coverage to keep your favourite trousers dry, has a waterproof outer shell with fully taped waterproof seams, full zip closure and cuff adjustment to prevent the lightest sprinkling of rain from entering your warm haven.
Buy now £249.00, Outdoor & Country
Marfa Stance Patchwork Parachute Parka
Marfa Stance proves its prowess in weather-shielding styles with this parka that turns the stereotypical raincoat on its head with its juxtaposition of colours and fabrics. It’s functional first and foremost with a water-repellent construction, but is also reversible and can be worn in different ways with tactical drawstrings to encourage cinching or worn loose-fitted.
Buy now £1295.00, Marfa Stance
Plümo Doherty Waxed Coat - Tartan
Keen to embrace the full Queen-at-Balmoral look? Take your cues from the former monarch in Plumo’s full coverage waxed coat, with tartan on the shell for an extra Gaelic touch. The slightly shortened sleeves mean you won’t need to constantly pull them back, while deep pockets can keep hands warm should you find yourself without gloves. The lightly coated cotton can withstand poor weather, making it a rainy-day must-have.
Buy now £398.00, Plümo
