Fashionable Raincoats You May Actually Be Able To Afford 

You’ll be ready for every rainy day with these fabulous pieces.

By
Published March 14, 2023
photo collage of rain jackets and ponchos
The Girlfriend Staff

If you’ve ever visited cities like Seattle or London, which are known for their annual rainfall, you’ll also likely notice how the locals are dressed to stay dry. Hint: It’s not boring. Cool and urban, hip and trendy, there is in fact a myriad of cool rainwear available — and it’s also affordable. Award-winning personal stylist Meg Gallagher says it’s a must to consider jackets and coats an essential part of your total wardrobe.

“Top layers complete your outfit and pull your whole look together. Your rainwear choice should be intentional and never an afterthought,” she notes. Gallagher, who runs a bicoastal business, says you needn’t sacrifice fashion or exceed your budget when it comes to the watery elements. Ready to glam up your wet-weather wardrobe with affordable pieces?

Trench

Love, Bonito: Ivonne Twill A-Line Midi Trench Coat ($75.90) 

Gallagher loves this stylish trench in Bottle Green — a unique yet neutral color. She points out that it’s sophisticated due to the storm flaps and covered buttons, but that it still presents as versatile and nontraditional. “A great piece to wear for day or evening,” says the pro, who shares fashion tips and tricks on her blog.   

SaphiRose: Women's Water-Resistant Trench Coat Double-Breasted Long Peacoat ($53.99) 

Named among L.A.’s top personal stylists and shoppers, Alison Kahn says, “Trends come and go, but the trench coat will always remain a stylish staple.” The 20-year fashion veteran, who has worked Vogue and GQ fashion shows and styled celebrities for red carpet events, calls this double-breasted waterproof coat the most versatile piece you could have in your wardrobe. Pro tip: “Pop the collar in the back for a little extra dimension.”

You might also check out Creatmo U.S. Women’s Trench Coat Double-Breasted Classic Lapel Overcoat Belted Slim Outerwear Coat With Detachable Hood on Amazon for $59.99.

Poncho

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H&M: Hooded Rain Cape ($50.99)

Gallagher loves this simple black cape for its minimalist, sleek style. Featuring deep pockets, adjustable hood with visor and snap sides for easy on-off, this one-size piece gives you ample coverage while also promising structure. The hip, eye-catching style comes off as relaxed and effortless. You may be tempted to throw this on even if it’s not raining.

Rainkiss_ponchos

RainKiss: Mao-Rain Poncho ($89)

Kahn, whose client list includes E! and American Idol­­, adores this rain poncho for the fun prints — obviously! There are over 16 patterns to choose from, making it easy for you to exude classic or whimsical. She likes that the longer length keeps your chic duds underneath completely dry and the hood provides ample protection for your perfectly coiffed tresses. The one-size-fits-all takes the guesswork out of sizing, and Kahn also appreciates that it's made completely of recycled polyester — which saves water and has no toxic byproducts. 

For a budget option, you might check out the SaphiRose Rain Poncho on Amazon for $18.03 or the Frog Toggs poncho for $14.99.

Parka

Arthas: Women Light Rain Jacket Waterproof Active Outdoor Trench Coat ($41.49) 

Kahn says one of the things you’re going to love about this rain jacket is the price­ — making it tempting to buy it in two colors (seven are offered). “It’s classically lined with stripes to peek through your rolled sleeve and your hood, which also detaches for a dressier look,” she adds. And a bonus: The cinched adjustable waist also does wonders to define your waistline. 

You might also check out the Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Parka for $89.90 at Uniqlo or the Orolay Women’s Down Jacket for $149.99 on Amazon.

Anorak

Uniqlo: U Hooded Coat ($79.90)

This on-trend hooded utility anorak is a no-fail, promises Gallagher, a perfect staple for travel. She’s a fan of its generous oversize shape because it allows for those chunky knits underneath. Note: Citing reviews, Gallagher suggests considering going down a size or two. 

You might also check out L.L. Bean’s Women’s Mountain Classic Anorak for $59.00 or the MixMatchy Women’s Lightweight Military Safari Anorak Utility Junior Fit Hoodie Jacket on Amazon for $45.95.

Quilted

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Mango: Oversized Quilted Overshirt ($59.99)

This quilted shirt jacket with high-shine nylon offers a plot twist to what’s traditionally regarded as rainwear, Gallagher concedes. But it’s water-repellant and perfect for light rain or that nonstop misting weather front. Gallagher says it shouts style and suggests pairing with denim and athleisure, such as when you’re out and about, running errands after a workout.

You might also check out Levi’s Women’s Soft Sherpa Lined Diamond Quilted Long Parka Jacket for $117.03 or the Columbia Women’s Copper Crest Hooded Jacket for $89.92.

Reversible

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RAINRAPS ($78)

Talk about getting bang for your buck. This reversible rain poncho is just what you need when walking around town, going out with friends or traveling. Accompanied with a small matching travel pouch, this water-repellent, two front zippered pocket poncho with a hidden hood is lightweight and stylish. Available in several prints and solids, stash one in your tote bag or glove compartment. And if you prefer rain hats as opposed to coat apparel that has attached hoods, to cover your tresses, purchase their reversible Raincap, a bucket shaped hat with toggles, in an assortment of identical colors and patterns.

Slicker

Asos: Missguided Vinyl Formal Coat With Faux Fur Cuff In Red ($113) 

Gallagher promises that this is nothing like your childhood rain slicker. It sizzles, featuring “[h]igh-gloss red with a snap front and sherpa fold-back cuffs!” She loves the longer styling for more protection from the elements and the roomy but chic cut, suitable for day or night. She reminds us with this rec that there’s no need to sacrifice style for weather.

You might also check out L.L. Bean’s Women’s Trail Model Rain Jacket for $99 or Old Navy’s Oversized Water-Resistant Coat for $64.99. 

What's your go-to store to buy coats/jackets? Let us know in the comments below.

Kathryn Streeter is a freelance writer living in Washington, D.C. whose work has appeared in USA Today, The Washington Post, Islands, The Week and elsewhere. Learn more at KathrynStreeter.com.