Cover Girls

Whereas some retail pursuits can seem like hard labor, the quest for winter coat salvation is entirely different. No question, the right one&mdasah;from wearability to versatility—has the ability to transform. Because, no matter what's going on underneath, a well-fitting jacket can single-handedly sum up your style in 10 seconds or less. That might seem like pressure, but not since we've sought a bunch that fulfill multiple Top Coat requirements. A lightweight but still cozy, tailored version? Check. A man-tailored pea-coat expertly fashioned for a woman? Check. The super-warm parka that actually looks feminine? Check. If only every search could be so simple.

1. Mayle tweed Vera Coat, $940, available at Mayle, 242 Elizabeth Street, New York City; 212-625-0406.

2. 3.1 Phillip Lim Hunter Plaid coat, $655; available at Bird, 430 Seventh Avenue, Brooklyn; 718-768-4940.

3. Whyred Moss coat, $695, available at Jumelle, 148 Bedford Street; 718-388-9525.

4. Lover Colorway Cape, $595, available at Metier, 355 Sutter Street, 415-989-5395.

5. Lyell Tina Tripp coat, $690; available at Lyell, 173 Spring Street; 212-966-8484.

6. A.P.C. Duffel Coat (with removable hood), $458, available at A.P.C., 131 Mercer Street; 212-966-9685.

7. Mike & Chris Walker Fleece Trench, $350, at Belle Gray, 13812 Ventura Boulevard, Los Angeles; 818-789-4021.

8. Acne Jeans Harlequin Bomber Jacket, $675, available at
Stacy Todd, 13029 Ventura Boulevard, Los Angeles; 818-906-7596.

—Christene Barberich & Piera Gelardi

Take two, our latest crop of fall coats, this time for the ladies.