Puffer outerwear has come a long way since the 1970s and 1980s, when anyone wearing a down-filled parka resembled the Michelin Man.
 

A|X Armani Exchange

Quilted in narrower channels for a slimmer fit, puffer toppers and vests are a key outerwear trend for the whole family. They’re a go-to for football games, travel or simply running about town. Many are also smart enough for the office.

Among the prestige brands offering puffers are BOSS Hugo Boss, Burberry, Coach, Cole Haan, Eileen Fisher, Elie Tahari, Ferragamo, Gucci, Kate Spade, Lacoste, John Varvatos and Robert Graham.
 

Coach

They’ve given the practical item some oomph with color, techno finishes, prints and metallics.

You can find puffers in pretty much any length, from waist-length bombers to car coats and topcoats that graze the calves. Vests are a more casual option, offering the freedom to color block your look with a contrasting top.
 

Canada Goose at Neiman Marcus

Black is the predominant hue for men’s styles, but blue, olive and burnt orange are equally de rigueur.

Women have those choices and more, such as dark purple velvet by Lewit at Nordstrom, white by Moncler at the Neiman Marcus, camouflage at Urban Outfitters and the Gap, and red by Tommy Hillfiger at Macy’s.

The North Face

Naturally, outdoors outfitter The North Face offers lots of down-filled outerwear, and you can also shop for it at A|X Armani Exchange, Banana Republic, Club Monaco, Dillard’s and J.Crew, among others.

Stefano Ricci at Neiman Marcus

Goose down fill is the standard for its lightweight warmth – the higher the fill power, the warmer the jacket.

Get a similar look for a lower price with synthetic fills, such as polyester, at H&M and ZARA.

For the young ones, head for crewcuts, GapKids, Nike, Under Armour and the department stores.