Twelve cool raincoats for staying fashionably dry this spring

Torontonians are so obsessed with staying warm in the winter (and dropping cash on cozy parkas) that when April showers hit, rain gear is sort of an afterthought. But nothing ruins a party outfit or professional suit like a wrinkled, too-small Patagonia with a face-pinching hood. This season’s transparent ponchos, pastel coats and athleisure-appropriate jackets are extra-durable, incredibly versatile and will make drizzly days something to get excited about.

This fire-engine red poncho from Swedish brand Stutterheim is meant for channeling your inner puddle jumper. $550. Stutterheim.com.    

Rudsak’s unisex raincoat has a mesh lining and translucent sleeves. It looks especially fresh paired with an all-white ensemble (just beware of pesky mud puddles). $325. Rudsak.com.    

Ponchos have gone from a just-in-case item to a bona fide style staple. The floral pattern on this one from British brand Joule is particularly pretty. $55. Raindropsto.com.    

Soiya and Kyo’s work-appropriate wrap coat is perfect for rainy weekdays. It looks stellar over a power suit—and the massive, Obi Wan–worthy hood will protect your blowout. $315. Soiakyo.com.    

Zara’s khaki-coloured water-repellent jacket is perfectly casual—and best paired with some frayed blue jeans. $119. Zara.com.    

This sherbet-hued mesh jacket is waterproof, windproof and just the right amount of sporty. $110. Lole.com.    

Hunter’s semi-transparent polyurethane poncho is ideal for those who prefer pared-down palettes. Throw it on over black skinny jeans and Converse kicks for an exceptionally low-key look. $230. Hunterboots.com.    

The black-and-white floral pattern on this coat makes it a decidedly sophisticated topper. $295. Raindropsto.com.    

K-Way’s raincoat, on the other hand, is best for throwing on over laid-back athleisure wear. $105. K-way.ca.    

Colour-blocking adds some subtle flair to this extremely durable, handmade Stutterheim coat. $475. Gravitypope.com.    

This Teflon-coated jacket by Mackage gives off a casual, perfectly drapey look that’s tough to find in most raincoats. $390. Mackage.com.    

Montreal label M0851 crafts this coat from brushed cotton twill that’s coated in three layers of polyurethane for an extra-sturdy feel. $515. M0851.com.