It feels like it was just yesterday that I was sitting on my terrace in a light dress, eating my favourite vegan ice cream and feeling the warm sunbeams on my skin. But even if, inevitably, each year the gentle rays of summer leave us with the harsh onset of autumn, yet we somehow are faced with the realisation that no, we didn’t buy a warm coat in time to face the chilly weather this year either. Well, that happens to me every year and I end up with a less-than-ideal solution. But when a (non-vegan) friend recently asked me if I could recommend a go-to brand for cruelty-free outerwear, I decided to do some research on the best labels. Not only because I wanted to find the perfect one for myself, but also because I wanted to be able to give my friends and family some great alternatives to wool, when talking to them about the violent truth about that industry. And let’s be honest: finding a vegan winter coat that keeps warm AND looks great can be a real pain. But it’s worth the research – the right coat is a true investment.
The materials
Many people still think of wool as a premium fabric, forgetting how procedures such as rough shearing and mulesing hurt animals – and neglecting to remember that each sheep used for wool will be sent to slaugther when deemed no longer fit for wool production. We’ll take our coat in eco cotton, thank you – preferably one from UMASAN.
Here are my top five winter warmers for style and comfort this season:
Go green with Vaute Couture
Inspired by the cold winters in Chicago, Leanne Mai-ly Hilgart of Vaute Couture created the Belden coat: lined with water-resistant and windproof ripstop made of 100% recycled synthetic fibers, a three-way collar and a knee-length A-line skirt, it keeps you pretty (and) warm! And best of all, it’s on sale: it was $450 and is $337.50 (about £218,50) now.
Be pretty in pink with Jill Milan
After having fallen in love with their beautiful bags, I was so happy to hear, that Jill Milan is now doing coats! My favourite is the long coat in soft pink, that is made from recycled polyester and designed for very cold temperatures. This one costs $400 (about £259) – and was exclusively created by celebrity stylist Laura Spinella for the cruelty-free brand. And best of all, you get 20% off any coat with the promo code “Welcome”!
Turn red with H&M
If you don’t want to (or can’t) spend a fortune on your new winter coat, go for the brick red one from H&M. I love the retro look, the big patch and small handwarmer pockets and the wide collar. It’s made from a polyester, viscose and elasthane mix and costs £49.99.
Be unique with UMASAN
I already introduced the German brand to you earlier this year. No I’m happy to announce, that Anja and Sandra are also creating wonderful vegan coats, like this one with an asymmetrical button border and a stand-up collar. It combines an edgy design with timeless black and is made from eco cotton. You can get it for the price of €509 (about £374).
Go to Cape Town with ASOS
You don’t have a cape? Go get one! I know, it’s more pretty than practical. But it’s the must-have of the season and it will look so cool with your new overknee boots! This one is made from polyester, viscose and elasthane, has a nice oversized silhouette and a zipper in the front and costs €105 (about £77).
Header photo via Jill Milan
