Let’s be honest, it is a struggle finding decent transitional outerwear that matches the weather perfectly. While I have borrowed a few of my mom’s jackets over the winters, it was hard finding a piece of my own that was perfect for a moderate winter day. Recently, as I was shopping at Nordstrom, I noticed an amazing brand that carries the perfect warm and stylish puffer. So of course, I had to share it with you!
I mentioned in my last post that I am meaning to buy more versatile pieces this year, and fell in love with Bernardo outerwear. Not to mention, the brand comes at an accessible price point. Most styles are currently on sale for under $200, and some even under $150 during special promotion weeks. As I generally do a lot of research before buying new investment pieces, I am excited to share the science behind all the features I love on this brand.
Disclosure: This post makes use of affiliate links, which may result in a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Fill Power: If you have not had a chance to see in my Instagram post, I explain the concept there. In essence, this number shares the relative warmth of your jacket based on how lofty the down feathers are. The higher the number, the better. A high fill power (anything above 700) means that the feathers are very fluffy. Why is that a good thing?
Down provides great insulation because it can trap heat effectively. The larger and fluffier the feathers are, the more heat it can trap for the same space compared to smaller ones. Thus, high fill power ensures your coat is both warm and lightweight. My Bernardo puffer has a 650 fill power, which is warm enough to carry you through 30-40 degree weather.
Yay, my time to geek out! My outerwear proudly contains Bluesign-approved PrimaLoft insulation.
In essence, PrimaLoft is a synthetic, lightweight, machine-washable insulation that was first developed for the US Army. Since then, the material has been used in clothing brands worldwide. You can tell because the item will carry a separate tag labeling the grade of PrimaLoft used.
My first time experiencing the material was during a trade show for my college summer internship. I remembered holding a pile of PrimaLoft feathers in my palm, and feeling the immediate warmth travel through my hands. Better yet, the particular grade of insulation in my puffer jacket is also Bluesign-certified. Similar to OEKO-Tex, a standard I share about in an earlier post, it is another program that ensures sustainable manufacturing of textile goods.
I love the thoughtful design of the ‘hidden’ hood. This warm and stylish puffer doesn’t have a traditional hood, which is perfect. Anyone ever hate the hood that just never stays on your head when the wind blows? And when it does fit, your hair gets all ruined by the static. Heh, don’t tell me you don’t feel akin to the struggle.
This puffer instead has a stand collar, and a hidden zipper in the back that opens to a hood, which you can use if you choose. Such a clever design that I have not seen in other coats before!
Another excellent functional feature. There is a bag attached to the inside lining of this jacket, so you can easily fold your jacket up and pack into this pocket. So simple, yet so clever. If you are looking for a jacket that is warm and perfect for traveling, this puffer is perfect!
If your main pet peeve about puffers is how poofy they are, I can assure you this one is chic and slimming. The style actually cinches in at the waist, without you having to adjust it. For reference, I purchased a size S and it fits perfectly. I still have room to wear a thick sweater underneath if I need to.
Now, I hope you have you sold and that you found this product review helpful. However, if you came here for a more general guide on finding the best warm and stylish puffer for winter, you can use this handy cheat sheet I put together:
I wanted to end by sharing a few more pieces from the brand that I loved the look of. While my specific style does not use Ecoplume, a few of the ones below do. It is another form of insulation made from recycled plastic bottles. You can read my newer post HERE on a few ‘vegan’ alternatives to down that will keep you warm this winter.
Thanks for reading, and I hope you enjoyed this information as much as I enjoyed writing it! 🙂
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