The puffer jacket has earned its place well beyond the ski lift. It is warm without being heavy, it handles drizzle and wind, and the best versions now look far more considered than the boxy sleeping bag shapes of a few years ago. What you want to look for is the baffle pattern and the fit. Wider channels give a softer, more relaxed look, while slim horizontal lines feel sportier and sit closer to the body. Cropped versions pair well with high waisted trousers and long skirts, while longer cuts cover more and keep your legs warm on a windy commute. A glossy finish catches light and feels a little fashion forward, while a matte finish is quieter and easier to wear with everything. Check the collar too. A high funnel neck protects against wind, and a hood adds versatility, especially if it detaches. Colors range from classic black to chocolate brown, cream and sage, and every one of them looks better when it is not overstuffed.

To keep a puffer from swallowing you, balance the volume. Pair a cropped style with wide leg jeans or a long knit skirt, and let a longer one sit over slim trousers or leggings. Keep your layers underneath thin, since the jacket already provides insulation. A fine turtleneck or a simple tee does the job. Accessories help a lot here. A structured bag and a sleek pair of boots dress the whole outfit up, while sneakers and a beanie push it toward the weekend. Try tonal dressing, a brown puffer with camel trousers or a cream one with grey knits, for a look that feels richer than the sum of its parts. When the temperature really drops, add a scarf tucked into the collar instead of piling on more coats. Most puffers are easy to care for, but check the label before washing, and store them loosely so the fill keeps its loft from one season to the next.