Lidl is set to release its new 'Winter Fashion' Special Buy range in the Middle Aisle this week, giving shoppers access to a budget-friendly padded coat that bears a strong resemblance to a far pricier option at John Lewis.
From Sunday, November 15, the range will include coats, jackets, pyjamas, joggers and cardigans. Among the new arrivals is the Esmara Ladies' Padded Coat, priced at £19.99 and available in four colours: black, Bordeaux, olive and beige.
A Closer Look at the Esmara Coat
The coat is designed with a water-repellent main material, a drawstring hood, a two-way zip with chin guard, side pockets, and an inner mobile phone pocket with hook and loop fastener alongside a zipped pocket. It features a relaxed fit, comes in sizes S-L, and is made from 100% polyester.
Its thick, quilted insulation and wind-blocking design are intended to keep wearers warm, with the puffer padding trapping natural body heat to create a protective barrier against cold air.
Budget-Friendly Alternative to John Lewis
The black version of the Lidl coat arguably resembles Superdry's Black Hooded Sports Puffer Mid Length Jacket, available at John Lewis for £119.99. Both garments share a classic black, longline silhouette with quilted padding designed for winter weather, and both use 100% recycled polyester for their main fabrics and warm filling.
Each coat includes side pockets and a hood, though the Lidl version features a customisable drawstring hood while the Superdry has a fixed design. The Lidl coat offers a relaxed fit, whereas the Superdry jacket provides a traditional regular fit with a sleeker, more athletic silhouette. The Lidl version also includes a two-way zipper with chin guard and interior compartments, while the Superdry boasts signature embroidered text detailing.
The biggest difference is the price: the Superdry jacket costs £119.99, while the Lidl alternative offers a similar look and weather protection for £19.99, making it a purse-friendly option for budget-conscious shoppers.
Can It Double as a Rain Coat?
The Esmara Padded Coat is primarily an insulated winter puffer, but it could serve as a practical raincoat for typical wet-weather days. Its water-repellent outer finish ensures light autumn rain and sudden winter downpours slide off the surface rather than soaking into the padding.
The drawstring hood can be pulled tight to block wind and driving rain, and the two-way front zipper includes a chin guard to prevent moisture seeping through the zipper area. However, it works best as an everyday fashion raincoat; as a heavy puffer, it will keep wearers warm and dry during commutes or school runs, but it lacks the fully sealed waterproof seams and breathable membranes needed for heavy downpours or intense outdoor hiking.
