Every once in a while, there comes along an item that makes me, a fashion editor, completely stop in my tracks. Sometimes it’s because the item is so deliciously over-the-top (like those MSCHF Big Red Boots), sometimes it’s because the item is being worn to perfection by a celebrity (like when Katie Holmes sported a cashmere bra and cardigan by Khaite). But in the case of this winter must-have, what captured my attention was the stunning simplicity of the Toteme scarf jacket.
This Scarf Jacket Is Primed and Ready to Take Over Our Wardrobes in 2024
Comfy and cozy is our winter m.o.
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Published Dec 12, 2023
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You’ve almost definitely spotted this coat (or look-alikes) on your social feeds—since its launch in November 2021, it’s become a must-have among fashion influencers and editors alike. It has a simple boxy silhouette, accented with contrast stitching on the hem, pockets and cuffs, and an attached matching scarf with fringe on the ends. The Toteme original has a homemade touch and a vaguely vintage vibe that help it stand out from the usual wool overcoats, puffers and trenches. But, with a nearly $1,200 price tag, the Scandinavian brand doesn’t come cheap.
You can make the argument that the timeless design, impeccable attention to detail and high-quality materials (the heavyweight wool is certified by the Responsible Wool Standard) make the Toteme scarf jacket worth the investment, and plenty of fashion insiders would agree. “It’s practical perfection,” stylist and personal shopper Imogen Alexander recently told Harper’s Bazaar. One fashion-obsessed friend even has it in two colors. “Yes, I bought it again,” she admitted after snapping the black-on-black version on sale to supplement the gray-and-white version sitting in her closet. “I’m so obsessed with mine from last year, it’s so comfortable and warm, and just goes with everything.”
Whether you’re looking to splurge or want something with the same vibes and a (much) lower price tag, we’ve got you covered. Here, ten scarf jackets that are sure to garner all the compliments this winter…and every winter after.
What We Like
- impeccable detailing
- comes in multiple colors
- high-quality materials
What We Don’t Like
- high price point
- scarf is not removable
Toteme
The OG scarf jacket will always be our favorite (though it does have some pretty stiff competition). The material reportedly has a nice heft to it—not so heavy that you feel weighed down, but just heavy enough to actually feel warm—and the scarf is attached along the collar. There are two large pockets in front as well with ample room for your phone, wallet and other necessities. Some reviewers found the wool was a smidge scratchy (as wool tends to be), but most agreed that it was not enough to actually bother them long term. As for fit, the Toteme jacket appears to run true to size, but if you have wider hips you may be more comfortable ordering up one from your usual size.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: DK 32 to 42
- Material: 88 percent wool, 12 percent polyester
2. Cider Tweed Round Neck Jacket with Scarf
What We Like
- under $50
- machine washable and dryer safe
- reportedly runs true to size
What We Don’t Like
- not as warm as others on this list
- limited sizes offered
Cider
This jacket from Cider looks remarkably similar to the original with contrast stitching along the edges, although it differs in a few notable ways. First, the material is 100 percent polyester and is less warm than others on this list. The scarf is also not attached, which some shoppers may actually prefer. (One reviewer noted she looped the scarf through the brand tag at the back of the collar for a more seamless look.) “Really good quality, not super warm obviously, but looks super stylish on and is a good layering piece for fall/early winter,” reads one review. In addition to this mocha brown hue, the jacket also comes in black with white trim.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: US 0 to 10
- Material: 100 percent polyester
What We Like
- reportedly quite warm
- scarf is removable
What We Don’t Like
- high price point
- no front closure
A.L.C.
This navy beauty has a cropped silhouette that’s just the right amount of boxy, and includes the matching scarf, although it is not attached. There are two front pockets to help keep your hands warm, and the sleeves are cut wide to accommodate even your chunkiest winter sweaters. “So cozy and flattering,” raves one reviewer. “Perfect for the colder months. Sized up one size for a more oversize look and fits perfectly!”
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to L
- Material: 80 percent wool, 20 percent polyamide
4. Petite Studio Lara Wool Jacket
What We Like
- made specifically for petite frames
- also available in white
- high-quality materials
What We Don’t Like
- matching scarf sold separately
- dry clean only
Petite Studip
This chic gray beauty was designed specifically for petite frames to achieve an oversize fit that isn’t overwhelming. It has that gorgeous contrast stitching along the edges, and is made with 85 percent wool for bonus warmth and cozy comfort, however the matching scarf ($75) is sold separately. Reviewers note the jacket appears to run true to size, with no adjustments needed for the length or fit of the shoulders for the 5’4”-and-under crowd. (P.S. There’s also a white version with black trim—and a matching scarf—if that’s more your style. )
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXS to L
- Material: 85 percent wool, 15 percent Tencel
What We Like
- fully lined
- scarf is removable
- reportedly fits true to size
What We Don’t Like
- dry clean only
Aqua
This camel-colored cutie also comes in a fun black-and-white plaid for those who prefer patterns, but we have to say, we’re partial to this timeless hue which allows you to better see all the details on the coat. The scarf is attached to the collar with snaps and the coat itself closes with a row of gorgeous tortoiseshell buttons. The polyester-wool blend is reportedly quite warm, though we’re not sure it would do the trick in truly frigid weather.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Material: 64 percent polyester, 36 percent wool
6. The White Company Wool Scarf Jacket
What We Like
- made entirely from Responsible Wool Standard wool
- reportedly quite warm
- scarf is removable
What We Don’t Like
- dry clean only
- less structured silhouette
The White Company
For a more relaxed fit, this wool topper from The White Company is a great pick. It’s made of 100 percent Responsible Wool Standard wool, which means the fibers were sourced from ethically and sustainably run farms. The scarf can also be detached and worn on its own to give you more versatility. Reviewers note that it does have a fairly oversize fit, so if you’re between sizes you may want to opt for the smaller option.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Material: 100 percent wool
7. Abercrombie & Fitch Removable Scarf Jacket
What We Like
- scarf is removable
- two side pockets
- fully lined
What We Don’t Like
- dry clean only
- cropped cut may not be as warm as longer jackets
Abercrombie & Fitch
This cropped jacket looks fabulous with or without the matching detachable scarf and comes in three chic colors—the camel hue pictured above, a creamy winter white and a moody dark gray. Although it is designed for a slightly oversize fit, reviewers note that it seems to run true to size, especially if you plan to layer any thicker knits underneath. “So soft and comfortable!” raves one shopper. “Especially as a shorter girl, I like that this keeps me warm but doesn't drown me in fabric. The inner lining is soft and doesn't feel scratchy. I've gotten compliments on this a lot.”
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XXS to XL
- Material: 63 percent polyester, 32 percent wool, 4 percent viscose, 1 percent Lyocell
8. Commense Contrast Trim Jacket with Matching Scarf
What We Like
- reportedly fits true to size
- scarf is removable
What We Don’t Like
- dry clean only
Commense
Another option that looks remarkably like the original, this Commense jacket comes in five colors (light gray, dark gray, black, navy blue and forest green, all with white trim), so there’s bound to be one to fit your style. The matching scarf is not attached, and while reviewers say the material feels more expensive than you might expect, it’s also not overly warm, making this a better option for those with milder winters.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to 2XL
- Material: : 90 percent polyester, 10 percent rayon
9. J.McLaughlin Sabrina Wool Wrap
What We Like
- cape-like fit
- side pockets
- scarf is removable
What We Don’t Like
- dry clean only
- one size
J.McLaughlin
We’ll admit, we’re usually skeptical of clothing items that come in only one size, but this J.McLaughlin wrap has a roomy, cape-like fit that reviewers say has ample fabric to fit multiple body types. The subtle camel-brown plaid adds a nice touch without feeling too bold, and the wool blend material is reportedly quite warm. There are also pockets on the front large enough to fit your phone or other essentials. The scarf is also removable, and the top secures closed with a series of hidden snaps to prevent any gusts of wind from sneaking in.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: one size
- Material: 55 percent wool, 40 percent polyester, 5 percent other
10. Express Wool-Blend Scarf Collar Coat
What We Like
- made partially from recycled materials
- scarf is removable
What We Don’t Like
- dry clean only
Express
The scarf on this deep brown jacket is not attached, so you can wear it with any other coat in your wardrobe as well. The jacket is designed with an open front (there are no closures), so we recommend wearing it when temperatures aren’t too cold, or during transition months in fall and spring. That said, there are also two cozy pockets on the sides to keep your hands warm while you’re out and about. Plus, it’s made partially from recycled wool as an added eco-friendly bonus.
FAST FACTS
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Material: 70 percent recycled wool, 30 percent polyester
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