There are few items more classic and versatile than a camel coat. Last year I shared a ranking of sweater brands I’ve tried, and I’ve been dying to do it again but, this time, with outerwear.

Over the years I’ve collected my fair share of camel coats, from long coats that feel like being wrapped in a blanket to tailored styles with clean lines.

With winter around the corner, it felt like the perfect time to share a breakdown of all the ones I’ve tried. See below for my ranking of the best camel coats for women!

Ranking the Best Camel Coats

Ralph Lauren Camel Coat

Starting in last place, I’d heard so many good things about RL coats, but I have mixed feelings about this one. It was itchy around the neck, and the huge front patch pockets weren’t my favorite. The tie on this coat fell out of place quickly. The length was also tricky; it’s shorter than average and at my height (5’9″) felt like its proportions would only work with pants/denim. I did love the color (a dark, rich camel) and silky lining. The longer version has positive reviews and may have won me over.

Aritzia Charlize Jacket

The Charlize jacket caught my attention last year on Instagram when another influencer shared it. To me, this is the perfect oversized, mid-weight layer when you don’t feel like putting effort into your outfit. Think a beanie, a sweater, jeans, and chelsea boots. It runs very large (I have XS but wish I had XXS). If you want an oversized, unique piece that not everyone’s going to have, Charlize is your girl. It’s only so far down the list because I don’t find myself wearing it often!

And Other Stories Shawl Coat

My sister and I went to And Other Stories in NYC a few years ago, and I remember thinking that the coats felt amazing for the price (under $300). I finally got this one for myself recently, and I’m impressed. It’s a robe coat with oversized sleeves and a shawl collar. The wide tie brings the comfy cozy look home. My only complaints are that a) it needs a lining and b) the sleeves are quite wide. But those are relatively small strikes for a $299 coat that gives off the aesthetic of much more expensive options.

Abercrombie Wool-Blend Dad Coat

Abercrombie has made quite the comeback in recent years! The Dad coat is a best seller since they rebranded, and it’s great if you prefer a buttoned coat without a tie. It has a classic, elegant feel and is lined. The fabric isn’t as soft as pricier brands, but I love the length of it. It’s heavy and thick, so it’s good for properly cold weather and comes in petite, regular, and tall sizes. If you like a wrap coat,

Theory Clairene Coat

This coat isn’t your average camel coat in that it’s short and feels more like a jacket—light yet cozy and perfect for fall or spring or layered up in winter on a cold day. I love the way the Clairene looks with jeans and tall boots when I’m not feeling a full length coat. The fit is so elegant. It has an open front and drapes in an angular way that elongates your figure. It’s regularly marked down on sale weeks, so keep an eye out. I have the color Palomino.

Mango Handmade Wool Coat Belted Coat

The MANGO belted coat is one of my most recommended because it’s a solid everyday staple at a great price point! Not too thick and not too thin, it’s a goldilocks weight and looks good with all sorts of outfits. This coat dresses up and down with ease, and the belt and pockets are functional. It lays beautifully and has a classic feel with the notched lapels. It’s fairly warm (best for fall and mild winter days), but layers well for cold weather. It’s regularly marked down (and restocked) and comes in three colors. I also love the wide lapel version. This is my #1 budget-friendly pick—I wear it all the time.

Jenni Kayne Cashmere Overcoat

While I have this coat in olive, it’s available in camel, so I had to include it! It has that signature Jenni Kayne effortless, Californian feel without being too modern (read: oversized). The relaxed fit makes for very easy layering over sweaters. The double-faced wool cashmere is extremely soft against the skin such that it doesn’t even need a lining. It’s a bit on the heavy side, so it doesn’t have much movement. The only caveat: I wish it had belt loops. If you’re looking for a high-quality, warm piece that will dress up and down easily, this coat is an extremely elegant option.

Theory Hawthorne Coat

The Theory Hawthorne coat is my most complimented by a landslide. I scored it marked down at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale years ago. It has no closure lays in just the right way over every outfit. I’ve since only seen it available on secondhand sites, but based on this coat and the Clairene mentioned above, I can say that Theory coats are worth the investment. This beautiful belted wool coat is my pick from this year’s collection.

Mackage Mai Coat

The Mackage Mai coat (featured on me in this post) is my newest coat and by far my favorite. The cut is absolute perfection in that it flatters your figure whether you have the belt tied or undone. The waterfall collar adds a touch of feminine without going overboard, and the length is ideal for any base (dresses, skirts, jeans/pants). The 100% wool fabric is lightweight yet warm, so this coat has great versatility and can be worn in early spring, late fall, and mid winter. The only con I can think of is that it isn’t lined, but the wool is so smooth that it glides right over your layers anyway. It’s feminine, silky soft, and has gorgeous movement. This is the perfect luxe camel coat to invest in.

On My Wishlist: Max Mara

As a bonus, I had to include Max Mara on this list because they’re considered the cream of the crop when it comes to classic camel coats. Most fashion lovers have one on their wishlist (or if they’re lucky, already in their wardrobe). Ranging between $1,500 and $8,000, these coats are a massive investment. Women who own them say they’re special wardrobe staples that last 10+ years. To give you a sense of Max Mara style, this coat, this coat, and this coat are my favorites from this season.

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