As someone who lives in London, I see a lot of people daily. And as a fashion editor, I take this opportunity to scout out what everyone is wearing. While I can spot if someone is joining the #MangoGirls, or count the amount of times I see a Loewe Puzzle bag in my local Hackney coffee shop, there's one coat in particular I'm actually losing count of seeing, and it's by the same brand. Hello, The North Face.
The Nuptse jacket is by no means new, having first launched in 1992, but with the return of all things '90s and '00s, there's no surprise the cropped cosy puffer is back with a serious bang. Puffer coats have been key for quite a few years now – thanks to the daily walks and al-fresco dining we had to get used to – but they're sticking around for the long haul. And 2023 proves it after I saw at least 10 people (I say people because this is a unisex style that suits all), yesterday alone wearing the same jacket. Usually, I wouldn't be one to follow the crowd but I couldn't help but be jealous of how warm (and effortlessly stylish) they all looked as I walked past in my thin un-padded coat.
The popularity of this style isn't just refined to London, oh no, The North Face jacket used to be a '90s favourite in New York thanks to the chilly temperatures making everyone opt for the down-filled style. Of course every cool-girl including Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner and Emily Ratajkowski has now been seen wearing them with everything from leggings and trainers to leather trousers. Part and parcel of why this one item is a best-seller is due to the sheer versatility and practicality of the winter warmer – yes, fashion can sometimes be practical, too!
The flurry of A-list fans of grew even bigger when the performance brand first collaborated with Gucci in 2020. Soon, everyone including Miley Cyrus, Billie Eilish and Cardi B were seen wearing The North Face x Gucci. And yes you guessed it, it sold out within a flash.
While my boyfriend remembers shopping The North Face from his local sportswear shop for a functional school jacket, now, The North Face jackets have become iconic and retail at around £300. My opinion? I would say they're a wise investment. With no sign of waning, this puffer jacket has earned its stripes as an item in any winter wardrobe that'll stand the test of time, and the unpredictable weather forecasts.
Like all great coats they sell out, fast, but you can keep going to shop the infamous Nuptse style along with some other key The North Face puffers. Because if you can't beat them, join them!
SHOP: North face Puffer Coats
1 of 5The North Face, 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket
In soft pink, you can get this classic retro jacket in nine other colours and they all come in sizes XS-3XL. Thing is, they sell out so fast so you'll have to be quick to get the colour you want.
2 of 5The North Face, 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket
In a different shade of pink, this jacket will end up being worn with everything from cargo pants to joggers and even tailored trousers. And trust me, it'll work so well with shades of camel and khaki.
3 of 5The North Face, 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket
For a classic that'll go with literally any outfit, you can always rely on a black puffer. This cut is also best for those who often find puffers can swamp their frame as the crop style is easier to wear with tighter pieces on the bottom.
4 of 5The North Face, RMST Nuptse Jacket
In a reworked version of The North Face's classic Nuptse jacket, this style has slight changes only the biggest fans of the brand will notice. Filled with recycled down, the water-repellant material will be ideal for winter weather.
5 of 5The North Face, Himalaya Hooded Quilted Down Jacket
If you prefer a hooded style then look no further than the Himalaya jacket. You could also easily wear this on the slopes with a pair of salopettes.