They say that within the first seven seconds of meeting someone your first impressions are drawn. So, for at least six months of the year (and that is a modest calculation), the outerwear you wear is arguably one of the first things someone will see on you, making what jacket you choose a pretty important investment, don’t you think?
However, at this time of year, purchasing a heavy coat feels too soon, which is why I'm turning my attention to more lightweight and transeasonal jackets that will work hard in my wardrobe over the next few months. Let’s face it, living in the UK means a jacket is needed for the majority of the time no matter which season we're in.
If I’m making a purchase at this time of year, I do so with the upcoming season in mind; I like to make sure the piece in question is something that I will continue to wear as the year progresses. With that in mind, I've rounded up some of the best jackets available in stores right now, and whittled it down to six key styles that'll work hard for you this season, and beyond.
Shop the Best Transitional Jackets, According to a Fashion Editor:
1. Suede
Style Notes: Queen of the capsule wardrobe, Anouk, knows that a suede jacket will serve you well across all years. The shirt and classic cropped iterations have dominated recent seasons, but I predict the suede blazer will also be a hero style for 2024.
Shop the look:
The colour, the length––pure perfection.
Trust me, this blazer is going to sell out so quickly.
I would wear this with burgundy accessories.
So fun with denim.
2. Sleek Leather
Style Notes: When it comes to leather jackets, it isn't just the biker that's getting airtime this season. Instead, sleek fuss-free styles are coming through from the likes of Whistles, & Other Stories and Khaite.
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The adjustable drawstring waist gives the humble leather jacket a whole new feel.
You know the Whistles jacket that sold out multiple times last year? It's back.
So sleek.
An investment worth making when you consider how many times you'll wear it.
3. Tweed
Style Notes: Arguably one of the It jackets of the season, a tweet style will elevate even the simplest of looks. A forever favourite for stylish Parisians like Julie, wear in the French-girl way as a co-ord or layer over a T-shirt with jeans to still look put together.
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I love this over a mini dress with ballet flats.
This M&S winner also comes in white.
Self-Portrait is renown for its bouclé jackets.
Here to tick off autumn's khaki trend.
4. Relaxed Blazer
Style Notes: Lois is wearing the iconic Frankie Shop blazer, that, let us tell you, isn't going anywhere for yet another year. To wear on repeat with absolutely any outfit—from jeans and a vest to a dress—you'll get so much wear out of an oversized blazer.
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Lois' exact jacket is a love-forever style.
I would style this as the full suit with the matching trousers.
I can't stop thinking about this blazer from House of Sunny's new autumn drop.
Heritage blazers are going to be huge news for autumn/winter.
5. Longline Trench
Style Notes: There's no doubt about it, the trench is one of the most loved items of all times. Make like Mira and keep the length longline, the fit oversized and the details simple to make sure you'll wear it on heavy rotation for years to come.
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The reversible style every style insider has on their autumn wish list.
Nope, I couldn't believe the price, either!
If you prefer a slightly shorter version then John Lewis has you covered.
I NEED this coat.
6. Denim
Style Notes: Denim is one trend you can't avoid this year. From the high street to the catwalk, you'll see it on everything from corsets to skirts, and bags to boots. If you're looking to buy into a piece that will have longevity in your wardrobe, a denim jacket is the answer. Whether it's a classic slouchy style, a bomber or a trench, anything goes as long as it's denim.
Shop the look:
I'm into this indigo denim iteration by The Frankie Shop.
All about those puffy sleeves.
Perfect as part of a double denim look.
Love the Western feel of this Loewe version.
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