10 Puffer Vests To Buffer The Winter Chill

Staying active during the coldest, most changeable season? Stay warm with a cuddly and utilitarian layer.

Even in the depths of winter, the weather patterns over Aotearoa remain fickle.

Throughout the days, temperates waver, conditions fluctuate and frustration swells. The key to navigating this unpredictability? Layers that work for you.

Below, fashion assistant and stylist Annabel Dickson collates a puffery of quilted vests, suited to navigating an ever-changing environment (especially when paired with a reliable skivvy). Some find interest in distinct patterns, others in vivid colourways. All draw on athletic influence to create much-needed function — while cocooning you in a comforting fluff.

Huffer vest $300

Skip the scarf and beanie. This sturdy zip-up, rendered in a reflective grey, will swaddle your torso, neck and head.

American Vintage vest, $649, from Maman

Moke vest $240

While this gleaming emerald colourway is a salve for seasonal greys, it’s also available in a more understated black.

Karen Walker vest $225

This quilted vest from designer Karen Walker, cut with a recurring monogram pattern, cites utilitarian influence.

Ruby vest $289

This sweet daisy pattern floats our mind to Mary Quant’s favourite flower. This reference from Ruby is oh-so playful and offers a visual break for monochromatic winter ensembles.

Gucci vest $3700

This layer calls to the maximalists. Gucci’s notable interlocking pattern is a great pairing to bold and audacious colours.

Superette vest $279

The sheen of this blush-coloured vest evokes a hint of Y2K glitz. If you’re chasing nostalgia, you could style with low-cut jeans and sticky lipgloss.

Maggie Marilyn vest $425

You’ll find cloudy comfort in this billowing puffer, designed with “crisp morning walks” in mind.

Taion vest, $150, from Good As Gold

This piece with wavy quilting is crafted by Japanese label, Taion, who proclaim a focus on all things outerwear (best suited to the functional dresser).

Aje Athletica vest $285

This Aje iteration borrows from sportier styles, creating shape through drawstrings and a high-neck collar.

More seasonal buys

Invest in warm wardrobe solutions that last the distance.

11 of the most reliably warm skivvies for winter. Need an additional layer to keep you toasty this season? Reach for a high-neck top both elegant and cosy.

Too cold to leave the house? These warm yet glamorous going-out looks will motivate you. From the car to the club in a look both glamorous and cosy.

9 pairs of tights for playful and practical seasonal dressing. Invest in a pair of showstopping stockings and you’ll want to brave the cold.

Fresh coat: Stylish trenches to cosy up in (and wear forever). Keep warm with autumn’s loveliest trench coats.

12 pairs of knee-high boots that are Viva-approved. These knee-high boots will keep you warm and stylish.