Power of the Puffer
Where to buy the hottest winter essential, as well as how this fashion phenomenon came to be.
By Holly Shulman, Contributing Writer
Everywhere you turn, whether on the streets of Madison or on social media, everyone has been sporting a puffer. It feels as though as time progresses, the puffier the jacket, the more stylish it’s deemed to be.
Surprisingly enough, this fashion staple began as an accident. In 1935, after hiker Eddie Bauer collapsed and nearly died from hypothermia on a fishing trip mid-winter, he realized there was a significant lack of truly warm jackets on the market (Cavallo, 2021). After some trial and error, the first goose jacket was created in 1936. The coat has made its way through the ‘80s and ‘90s, becoming a staple item for the winter and a source of warmth for brutal temperatures.
Now, you may be asking, where can I buy this must-have fashion item? Well, you are in luck, because puffer jackets are available in various styles, at all different price points.
North Face Nuptse Puffer Jacket
North Face Nuptse Puffer Jacket
This is one of my personal favorites that I have seen all over the streets of Madison. It comes in a variety of colors to match any aesthetic and adds another element to a basic winter outfit. Although the price tag is a little hefty, at around $280, the quality is amazing. The puffer will keep you warm and may be worth the investment if you like the style!
Aritzia Super Puff
This puffer is another winter classic. It comes in three lengths: cropped, short and long. You can tailor the length to the climate, for the most brutal of temperatures to a lighter winter day. I personally have the Aritzia Super Puff long as my go-to winter coat, and it truly keeps me warm and in style.
Affordable Options
Lastly, retailers such as Old Navy, Misguided, Target and ASOS all carry various styles of puffer coats for more affordable prices. I have a bright red puffer from Target to wear to game days and as another colorful coat option, which is personally one of my favorite ways to dress up an outfit. I love experimenting with different colored puffers, and the perfect way to do so is with more affordable options!
Whether you decide to invest in a North Face or an Old Navy puffer, you will be sporting a stylish and fun jacket that will be sure to keep you warm this winter.
Sources:
Cavallo, A. (2021, January 23). A Brief History of the Puffer Coat in Photos. L’officiel.