6 Stylish Ways to Wear a Coatigan

It’s about this time of year that I bring back a major cold weather wardrobe staple: the coatigan. If you’re new to this style, let me introduce you to your new between-season style best friend!

A coatigan is a mid-weight layer that’s not as heavy as a coat nor as light as a cardigan. Not too hot, not too cold, but jussssst right—which is why I’ve dubbed her the ‘Goldilocks’ of layers.

They bridge the awkward between-season period when you want to dress for fall but the weather isn’t cooperating. They’re warm enough to venture outdoors in on a brisk night or into blasting A/C at your favorite coffee shop yet light enough for late summer heat.

Keep scrolling to discover what my all-time favorite coatigan is, how I styled it two ways recently, and six more coatigan outfit ideas!

Outfit Details: J. Crew Coatigan (last seen here), Vince Cami, Levi’s Jeans, Senreve Bag, BP. Mules (Look 1), Similar Veja Sneakers (Look 2)

I’ve tried a handful of coatigans, cardigan sweaters, and sweater blazers, but the J. Crew Ella is hands down the best. There’s a reason it’s a best seller that they bring back year after year. It’s the perfect weight, blends drape with structure, and you can lay the collar flat or stand it up for some edge!

It also has large side pockets, an open front, is roomy enough for layering over long sleeve button up shirts, sweaters, and pullovers, and comes in multiple colors (I own black, camel, and dark camel). It has a relaxed fit, so I wear size XS.

If you’re petite, the J.Crew Juliette collarless sweater-blazer is also an excellent option.

Coatigan Outfit Ideas

Now, onto styling ideas! My go-to coatigan outfit is jeans or faux leather leggings, a tee, and booties. I’ve also worn them with lace-up sneakers and sandals, and in this post I styled the Ella cardi with heeled mules and velcro sneaks.

Below are six coatigan outfit ideas to get your wheels turning! As always, you can click any look to shop it.

So, do you have one? How do you style yours? Let me know if you have any questions about the Ella or ways to style it in the comments!

For even more fall outfit ideas, hop over to the Shop and Instagram where I’ll be sharing more daily looks featuring my favorite camel coats, coatigans, dusters, longline cardigans, and knit cardigans styled for date night, travel, and the weekend this fall!

Shop the J. Crew Ella Coatigan

Keep in mind to size down as it runs large! If your color/size are sold out, check back for restocks. J. Crew usually restocks around the holidays (and also discounts it up to 50% off throughout the season!).