There are times in the colder months where your jacket is basically your outfit. From dressy events to casual outings, sometimes the weather dictates that you will be wearing your jacket the whole time you are out. But even if you can take it off, why miss the fashion moment? Just because function is as important as form, it doesn’t mean you have to forgo the form altogether.
While many people think jackets are limiting, we find them to be one of the most versatile pieces in your wardrobe. For work, trying pair it with cropped slacks, a chic button-up, and heels. When casual Friday hits, style your coat with a flowy skirt, or pair of jeans and booties. You can throw the right coat over everything from a sweatshirt to a sweater as a perfect last layer to make an outfit standout. And don’t forget about mixing colors and patterns, too. If that feels a bit too much, you can always pair a jacket in an unexpected color (or colors) with pants in a solid color and still look chic no matter where you are headed. Bright jackets are an easy way to stand out in the bleaker months without looking like you tried too hard. My color blocked jacket form Shein brings max statement power with minimal effort. I know this jacket is going to come in handy for those mornings where I am late and uninspired by my closet. Throw this jacket on over even the most basic pieces and, viola, instant polish. The skirt is also by Shein, and not something I would normally put with a jacket like this, but I love the way they look together. Yes, I am wearing a sheer shirt in these pics and it was perfect for an experiential art opening I was going to, but if this was a normal office day, I would make this outfit more appropriate just by changing the sheer shirt for a black cashmere sweater.
For my more conservative look, I paired this Emerson Fry jacket that I bought on consignment with basic black pants from Zara, and a black tee shirt. I threw on two of my other favorite secondary market finds: my Fendi mules and Gucci purse. I love the #vintagemodernmix of this outfit, as well as the special details on this outfit-making jacket: the shorter sleeves, statement buttons, and texture of the coat itself.
Dare to be different. Have you noticed that you get the most compliments when you wear something that’s a little more out unique? People appreciate something that’s different from the crowd. Fun jackets can help make your wardrobe distinctively yours. We all see classic jacket staples on the regular, whether it is a traditional blazer, a denim jacket, leather jacket, or trench coat. And if you are not the biggest fashion risk taker, start with a thrifted jacket that is a bit out of your comfort zone. Unlike a dress or shirt, if you really feel uncomfortable in your statement jacket, you can always take it off!
Memorable jackets are one the most wearable items of clothing around and they work for everyone. From mom life to work life, age 18 – 81, there are multiple coats at all different price points. You can practically throw one on over any outfit to quickly pull together a super-chic outfit. “Third layer” pieces (fashion industry speak jackets) are the most exposed part of your outfit, so you might as well make it count!
