As the days grow shorter and the Irish weather turns crisp, I’m always on the hunt for a jacket that balances warmth, style, and practicality. Too often, winter outerwear feels like a choice between bulky puffer coats that hide your outfit or delicate knit jackets that offer zero protection against the cold. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered Apricot’s Faux Fur Panel Jacket in Stone on their Irish website. Apricot has long been my go-to for affordable, on-trend pieces that don’t skimp on wearability, and at €60, this jacket felt like the perfect middle ground between a splurge and a sensible purchase. After wearing it nonstop for eight weeks—commuting to work, running weekend errands, attending dinner dates, and even braving a few rainy walks—I can confidently say it’s the most versatile and beloved outer layer in my wardrobe. Here’s my full breakdown of the shopping experience, product details, and why this stone faux fur jacket has become a staple I can’t imagine living without.
First, let’s talk about the brand: Apricot. For years, I’ve relied on Apricot to deliver pieces that feel thoughtful rather than throwaway. Unlike fast-fashion brands that chase fleeting trends, Apricot crafts items that blend current styles with timeless appeal—pieces you’ll reach for season after season, not just once. Their website, apricotonline.com/ie, is a joy to navigate: clean, clutter-free, and packed with all the information you need to make an informed purchase. Unlike some retailers that hide sizing charts or fabric details behind endless clicks, Apricot’s product page for the Faux Fur Panel Jacket puts everything front and center. From the fabric composition to the care instructions, there’s no guesswork involved, which is why I trust the brand implicitly when shopping online.
The shopping experience was seamless from start to finish. I stumbled across this jacket while browsing Apricot’s “Coats & Jackets” section, drawn in by the promise of a “super-soft faux fur” and “versatile” design. The product photos were incredibly helpful: there’s a full-length shot of the jacket (though the model’s measurements aren’t listed, the regular fit is clearly showcased), close-ups of the faux fur texture and panel detailing, and even a view of the snap-button fastenings and side pockets. I appreciated that Apricot listed every key detail upfront: fabric composition (artificial fur pile: 100% Polyester, backing: 100% Polyester; lining: 100% Polyester), length (approx 75cm), fit (Regular), and care instructions. As someone who’s a UK 10 with a slim frame, I was a little unsure about sizing—would the regular fit be too boxy, or would it skim my figure nicely? The size guide, which included bust, waist, and hip measurements for each size, helped me decide on a Medium, and it turned out to be the perfect choice.
Adding the jacket to my cart was effortless, and checkout offered all the payment options I could want: credit card, PayPal, and Klarna for those who prefer to split the cost (a nice touch for budget-conscious shoppers). Shipping to my home in Dublin was free—always a bonus—and the jacket arrived in just two business days. It came in a simple, recyclable Apricot-branded plastic bag, which was practical and not overly wasteful. The jacket was folded neatly, with no creases or defects—exactly what I’ve come to expect from Apricot’s reliable packaging. When I pulled it out of the bag, I was immediately struck by how soft it felt, even through the plastic.
When I tried on the jacket for the first time, I was hooked. The faux fur is incredibly plush and soft—nothing like the scratchy, synthetic fur I’ve encountered in cheaper jackets. It feels luxurious against the skin, and the stone color is absolutely stunning: a warm, neutral shade that’s somewhere between beige and light taupe. It’s versatile enough to pair with almost everything in my wardrobe—from black dresses to denim jeans, earth-toned sweaters to printed skirts—without clashing. Unlike bold faux fur colors that can feel overwhelming, the stone shade adds a touch of elegance without being too loud, making it suitable for both casual and dressy occasions.
Let’s dive into the fabric and construction. The jacket is made entirely from polyester—100% polyester for the faux fur pile and backing, and 100% polyester for the lining—and while that might sound basic, it’s actually a smart choice. Polyester is durable, wrinkle-resistant, and easy to care for, which is essential for outerwear that gets regular use. The faux fur is thick and substantial, providing excellent warmth without feeling heavy. I’ve worn it on days when the temperature dropped to 5°C, and I stayed cozy without needing to layer a bulky sweater underneath. The lining is soft and smooth, preventing the jacket from clinging to my clothes and adding an extra layer of comfort. I was worried that a polyester lining might feel sweaty, but it’s surprisingly breathable—even when I’m rushing to catch a bus or walking uphill, I never feel overheated.
The design details are where this jacket truly shines. Let’s start with the fit: it’s labeled as a “regular fit,” and it’s perfect—roomy enough to layer over a sweater or blouse without feeling bulky, but not so loose that it loses its shape. It skims over the torso and hips, creating a flattering silhouette that works for a range of body types. The length (75cm) is ideal: on my 5’6” frame, it hits just below the hips, which is practical (it covers my lower back and hips, keeping them warm) and stylish (it doesn’t overwhelm my figure). For taller women, it will still feel proportionate, and for shorter ladies, it won’t drag or feel too long—versatility at its finest.
The panel detailing is a subtle but stylish touch. The faux fur is divided into neat panels, which gives the jacket a more structured, polished look than a solid fur jacket. It prevents the fur from looking shapeless or “fluffy” in all the wrong places, adding a touch of sophistication that elevates the design. The notched lapel collar is another standout feature: it’s wide enough to frame the face beautifully, and it can be popped up for extra warmth on windy days. Unlike some collars that feel stiff or uncomfortable, this one is soft and flexible, laying flat when open or standing up nicely when needed.
The snap-button fastenings are both practical and stylish. They’re easy to fasten and unfasten with one hand (a lifesaver when I’m juggling a bag, keys, and a coffee), and they add a vintage-inspired touch to the jacket. The buttons are hidden under the fur paneling, which gives the front a clean, streamlined look. When fastened, the jacket stays closed securely, keeping out cold drafts, and when open, it drapes beautifully, adding a relaxed vibe to any outfit.
The side seam pockets are a game-changer. They’re deep enough to hold my phone, wallet, and keys—no more fumbling with a crossbody bag when I’m running quick errands. The pockets are lined with the same soft polyester as the jacket’s interior, so my hands stay warm even on the coldest days. Unlike some jacket pockets that are flimsy or poorly placed, these feel sturdy and intentional, adding to the jacket’s practicality.
The long sleeves with straight cuffs fit perfectly—they’re not too tight around the wrists, so I can easily roll them up if I get warm, and they’re long enough to cover my forearms without feeling restrictive. The cuffs are finished neatly, with no loose threads or uneven stitching, which is a sign of Apricot’s attention to quality.
One of the things I love most about this jacket is its versatility. It’s not just for one occasion; it works for almost everything. For work, I layer it over a tailored blouse and high-waisted trousers—suddenly, it’s polished enough for client meetings or team presentations. For weekends, I throw it on over a sweater and jeans with ankle boots—casual, cozy, and perfect for running errands or meeting friends for coffee. For a dressy evening out, I pair it with a little black dress and strappy heels— the faux fur adds a touch of glamour, and the stone color keeps the look elegant without being over-the-top. I even wore it to a friend’s birthday brunch with a floral dress and white sneakers, and it felt fun and effortless. The plain stone color means it pairs with almost anything, making it one of the most versatile pieces in my wardrobe.
Add to Bag:Faux Fur Panel Jacket
Care instructions are simple and manageable: 30-degree machine wash, do not bleach, do not tumble dry, do not iron, and professional dry clean if needed. I was a little worried about washing a faux fur jacket—would the fur mat or lose its softness? But after washing it twice (on a gentle cycle in a laundry bag), it’s held up perfectly. The fur is still just as plush and soft, the color hasn’t faded, and there’s no sign of matting or damage. I lay it flat to dry, which takes a few hours, but it’s a small effort for a jacket that looks like new after each wash. Unlike some delicate faux fur pieces that require expensive dry cleaning every time, this one is low-maintenance—another win for busy lifestyles.
Let’s talk about value for money. At €60, this jacket is an absolute steal. I’ve paid twice as much for similar faux fur jackets from other brands that were scratchy, ill-fitting, or fell apart after a few wears. Apricot’s version is well-made, comfortable, and versatile—all for a price that’s accessible to most shoppers. When you consider how many times I’ve worn it (at least 20 times in eight weeks), the cost per wear is just €3—unbeatable for a piece that works for so many occasions. It’s the kind of item that feels like a luxury but doesn’t come with a luxury price tag, which is exactly what I look for in affordable fashion.
Apricot’s commitment to accessibility is another reason I love this brand. The Faux Fur Panel Jacket is available in sizes XS to XL, covering a range of body types, and the price point makes it easy for anyone to add a stylish, warm outer layer to their wardrobe. Unlike some brands that charge more for plus sizes or premium-looking pieces, Apricot keeps their prices consistent and reasonable without sacrificing quality. The fact that it’s available on their Irish website with free shipping is also a huge plus—no dealing with international fees or long delivery times.
Are there any downsides? The only minor complaint I have is that the faux fur can attract a little lint, especially if I’m wearing it over dark-colored clothes. But that’s a common issue with faux fur, and it’s easily fixed with a lint roller. Another small thing: the snap buttons can be a little stiff at first, but they’ve loosened up with use. Honestly, these are tiny quibbles that don’t detract from the jacket’s overall excellence.
Overall, my experience with Apricot’s Faux Fur Panel Jacket in Stone has been nothing short of fantastic. From the seamless shopping experience on apricotonline.com/ie to the high-quality product itself, this jacket has exceeded my expectations in every way. It’s warm, stylish, versatile, and well-made—everything I want in a winter staple. Whether you’re looking for something to wear to work, weekends, or special occasions, this jacket delivers.
If you’re on the fence about buying it, here’s my advice: go for it. The stone color is timeless, the fit is flattering for most body types, and the faux fur is soft and durable. At €60, it’s a low-risk purchase that you’ll wear again and again. Apricot has done an incredible job of creating a piece that feels intentional and well-crafted, designed for real life rather than just the runway. I’ve already recommended it to my sister, my best friend, and even my colleague—and all of them have bought it, raving about how much they love it.
In a world of fast fashion that’s full of disposable pieces, Apricot’s Faux Fur Panel Jacket is a breath of fresh air. It’s a piece that feels like it was made to last, not just to be worn once. I can’t wait to wear it through winter and into spring (layered over lighter outfits), and I know it will still be a favorite next year. If you’re looking to add a cozy-chic staple to your wardrobe that elevates every outfit, this jacket is a must-have. Trust me—you won’t regret it.
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