As the temperature begins to drop, you're likely to be in the market to find the best coats [1] of the season to add to your wardrobe. While there are many things to consider when investing in a winter coat (fabric, length, colour, occasion), we can't help but champion a jacket that works a little bit harder than its predecessors: enter the scarf coat.

Last winter, the Toteme scarf coat went viral, thanks to its practical yet stylish silhouette. The hip-length peacoat shape comes with a built-in scarf sewn in to create a soft, blanket finish. Released for autumn/winter 2022, the outerwear from the Scandinavian brand soon went viral, with the hashtag #totemescarfjacket currently racking up 8.7 million views on TikTok. Loved by editors and influencers alike, last fashion month saw the coat dominate street style, and it's not hard to see why.

The scarf coat (or "scoat" as we are coining it, because who doesn't love a nickname?) perfectly encapsulates the season with its two-for-one messaging. Suitable for almost any occasion thanks to its smart-casual aesthetic, the scarf-coat allows us to sack off accessories. The built-in scarf means the outerwear look is complete with minimal effort; the perfect matching scarf to keep us warm with a polished look. Essentially, it plays perfectly into the quiet luxury fashion trend [2] worn by Sofia Richie, Jennifer Lawrence [3], and Kylie Jenner.

And it seems the silhouette is here to stay. Like the trench coat or the camel coat, this is a shape that is likely to return season after season. Meghan Markle [4] was spotted in a version in March, and the high street is flooded with hybrid styles for winter 2024 to add to your winter wardrobe. Keep scrolling for some of our favourite scarf coats, or scoats, this season.

Zara Scarf Coat

Zara Short Knit Coat With Asymmetric Scarf [5] (£60)

We can always count on Zara to be on the trends, and this season is no exception. The collarless, short, grey coat comes with double-breasted fastening and added scarf detail. Wind it around your neck like a traditional scarf or leave it draped at the front for chic interest.

River Island Scarf Coat

River Island Grey Scarf Detail Coat [6] (£42, originally £75)

This high street option is even more versatile. This wool blend scarf coat has a relaxed silhouette, thanks to the wide sleeves and loose fit, so it's already a stylish buy. The additional scarf matches the outer fabric on one side and is a darker grey on the other to match the stitching, so you have the option to play with tones.

Ted Baker Patterned Scarf Coat

Ted Baker Jilliya Oversized Twill Knit Scarf Coat [7] (£172, originally £345)

Try the trend in a neutral pattern. The cashmere blend outerwear has a zig-zag woven pattern that is still subtle enough to go with anything in your wardrobe. With tassels at the hem, it's a great option to kick off 2024 with a stylish start.

Cos Scarf Coat

Cos Oversized Pinstriped Wool Scarf Coat [8] (£250)

All hail this Cos coat. For a more formal take on the scarf-coat trend, Cos has created a navy pinstriped coat with large lapels, fabric belt, and detachable scarf. The chic silhouette is perfect to take you from work to play, while the draped scarf softens the sharp lapels. A timeless silhouette that will last for years for come.

Mint Velvet Scarf Coat

Mint Velvet Navy Longline Scarf Coat [9] (£249)

Navy is the new black, so why not try a scarf coat in the slightly softer hue? With contrast trim to give more definition to the look, this Mint Velvet number is a flattering length. The wide sleeves and attached scarf gives a modern silhouette that looks fab with everyday jeans.

Ted Baker Scarf Coat

Ted Baker Skylorr Scarf Detail Coat [10] (£295)

This cream scarf coat looks super expensive and will be a timeless addition to your wardrobe. It comes in a fuchsia pink as well if you're looking to inject a pop of colour to the grey winter days.

Toteme Scarf Coat

Toteme Scarf-Neckline Felt Jacket [11] (£810)

If you're looking to get your hands on the OG scarf jacket, then Toteme it is. With cream crochet contrast edging and wide-fluted sleeves, it really is a jacket that makes a statement.