BEST: Coats

• BEST: Coats

  By Rachel Felder
  
  Baby it's cold outside! The mercury is starting to drop -- what a perfect excuse to go shopping for a fabulous new coat! From dressy wool toppers to a fun weekend down, here are StyleList's picks for the best coats of the season.

• BEST: Coats

  Peacoat
  
  Nothing says winter quite like a cute little peacoat. This one, which has slightly elongated arms and a cropped fit, is as fashionable as it is warm. And if red's too bold a fashion statement, it also comes in blue, green, and a refined pale gray.
  $88, www.gap.com.

• BEST: Coats

  Toggle
  
  Toggle coats never go out of style, but this season they're particularly "in." Go ahead and indulge your inner Paddington Bear -- at under $150, this well made coat is a great deal.
  $138.50, www.ae.com

• BEST: Coats

  Funnel Neck
  
  Not sure there's room in your closet for another black coat? Think again -- this staple has enough irresistible tweaks, like a funnel neck and trim fit, to make it an essential.
  $179, www.anntaylorloft.com

• BEST: Coats

  Cropped
  
  If you (like so many of us) live in a virtual uniform of black clothing, here's the instant remedy: a colorful but polished jacket that is great for both work and weekends.
  $168, www.bananarepublic.com

• BEST: Coats

  Houndstooth
  
  This eye-catching coat is all about the vintage-inspired details, like a breezy A-line cut and Peter Pan collar. And if your friends think it's from a trendy (and pricey) designer,your secret's safe with us!
  $199, www.lizclaiborne.com

• BEST: Coats

  Trench
  
  Each season there's one coat which is worth saving up for, and right now it's this crisp wool trench, which will look great this year and for many more to come.
  $398, www.kennethcole.com

• BEST: Coats

  Vintage-Inspired
  
  A coat can be a vital accessory, like an "it" bag or great pair of shoes. Case in point: this snazzy topper from Target, which comes in a trendy jewel tone and has an adorably girly collar.
  $49.99, www.target.com

• BEST: Coats

  Bomber
  
  On some cold weekend mornings, all you want to do is pull on your sweats and throw on a cozy down jacket. Here's the perfect parka for those times, cut with a feminine, boyfriend-pleasing edge.
  $128, www.vspink.com

• BEST: Coats

  Patent
  
  What could be hotter this season than a boxy duffel coat in super-shiny patent leather? This version from Adam Lippes is worth its price tag for quality, versatility and undeniable style.
  $795, www.shopbop.com