Finding a highly technical piece of outerwear that can thoroughly protect against the elements while cutting a sleek and sophisticated silhouette is no simple task.
More often than not, wearing an expensive and entirely weatherproof coat into the office makes us look and feel like school children shedding packable anoraks after stomping and splashing in puddles at the local playground. On the other hand, even the most utilitarian trench coats tend to be quite lightweight and are better suited to warmer April showers as opposed to winter torrents.
As such, despite looking and feeling relatively chic, if we get caught in an opening of the heavens while on the daily commute – our humble trench coats won’t do a great deal to protect us. Instead of fulfilling our Carrie Bradshaw-esque dreams of professional and high-fashion sophistication, we look like drowned city rats.
Perhaps the biggest mistake consumers are known to make when purchasing waterproof jackets for work pertains to the length. If you’re truly committed to keeping your lovely suit or smart dress protected against the elements, consider the maximum length of your go-to work garment before investing in an insulating parka. That way, you can ensure that you won’t get any puddle splashback or rain showers destroying your professional aesthetic before you’ve even managed to locate your office ID.
We’ve put together an edit of the best waterproof jackets that are suitable for wearing to and from the office because showing up to an important meeting sodden from torrential rain is never a good look.
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Everlane The ReNew Long Trench Coat
This heavyweight trench by Everlane is a versatile garment that can be worn throughout the warmer months with a summer dress, and during the depths of winter with appropriate layers. It has a subtly oversized fit for extra comfort, a double-breasted button-front closure with a belt for cinching, as well as a back vent and storm flap. Rest assured, it’s also water-resistant and water-repellent.
Buy now £141.00, Everlane
Uniqlo Blocktech Coat
Available in sizes ranging from XS to 3XL, the Uniqlo Blocktech is a waterproof, unisex staple which carries an air of sophistication as well as an array of high-performance features. Waterproof, windproof and complete with fully taped seams to keep the elements at bay, we’re partial to the beige hue, but it’s also available in black, khaki and navy.
Buy now £109.90, Uniqlo
FP Movement Iridescent Bio-Based Membrane Singin In the Rain Jacket
Perfect for looking smart and stylish in torrential downpours, this lovely iridescent rain jacket by Free People can be dressed-up or down depending on the occasion and is incredibly utilitarian. It’s been designed with the highest level of water protection and is also brilliant for those who cycle into work.
Buy now £268.00, Free People
The North Face Women's Suzanne Triclimate 3-in-1 Jacket 2.0
As city-based square footage continues to shrink, wardrobe versatility is more important than ever. This 3-in-1 jacket from The North Face is designed to take you through all four seasons with absolute ease. The Suzanne Triclimate comes with a sleek outer jacket which is breathable and waterproof, as well as a quilted inner jacket which is filled with 550-fill of responsibly sourced down. Wear them together or separately depending on the weather.
Buy now £380.00, The North Face
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
Rains Alta Puffer Jacket
Perfect for those looking for a comfortable and cosy oversized puffer coat this winter, the Alta Puffer by Rains is entirely waterproof – unlike some on the market. It’s offered in an array of fabulous colours to suit your personal aesthetic and features an inside zipped chest pocket and concealed fleece-lined side pockets. Lightweight and durable, it’s crafted with woven chamber technology and cut from Rains’ PU fabric with double welded seams to keep inclement weather out, and total warmth in.
Buy now £319.00, Rains
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
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
