Scarves Are Serving as More of an Accent Than a Necessity Now That Funnel-Neck Coats Are All the Rage

A few seasons back it seemed as if the fashion universe couldn’t get enough of scarf coats. After all, who wants to shell out additional bucks on a scarf when you can just buy a coat with one already attached? New-to-the-game TOTEME kicked off the trend and practically every other designer brand followed suit. My, how times have changed. Now we’re basically chucking the scarf altogether by setting our collective sartorial sights on funnel-neck coats.

The definition of a funnel in conventional terms is a pipe or tube that widens from the bottom to the top. That pretty much sums up funnel-neck coats, too. Although, in some cases, the funnel is more uniform, but we’re not complaining. The most important criteria is that it gives ample coverage of the neck area. Basically doing the same job that scarves used to do.

While the silhouette carries over, the coat styles are actually varied. Choose from edgy biker jackets, toggle types, teddy outerwear and even a down puffer courtesy of, who else, Moncler. That means there’s a multitude of ways to style these bad boys. While working in a scarf is rather redundant, turtlenecks are totally acceptable. In fact, they’re encouraged. When it comes to bottoms, well, that depends on the length of your soon-to-be-favorite coat. Cropped leather versions lend themselves to everything from pleated maxi and midi skirts to jeans, especially the dark-wash kind. Keep things preppy by pairing a toggle coat with khakis and boat shoes. (Unless there’s several inches of snow on the ground, then switch to sleek boots.) Long, almost floor- or street-dusting expanses, call for corduroys. Give onlookers something to look at when they go the distance.

Unlike other seasonal crazes, there are plenty of reasonably-priced ways to indulge. It’s about time Topshop came back and we’re officially head over heels for its Borg Longline Ovoid Sleeve Patchwork Coat priced at $189. For shoppers in the United States, the reinvigorated label can be found over at ASOS. COS is another great source for funnel-neck coats, from a corduroy creation to a terrific tweed take.

Here are the chicest styles to flaunt all winter long. They’ll even make you wish the season lasts a little longer.