The 7 Best Jackets For All Your Spring Outfits
Brighter days and warmer weather can mean only one thing - it’s almost time to do away with our down-filled coats and opt for something a little lighter and brighter. With Spring upon us, so is the age-old dilemma of having to choose the right outerwear for uncertain weather. There’s never a single, must-have jacket for spring, rather a range of options to choose from instead. From boxy workwear jackets to modernised takes on quilted shackets and classic macs, there’s something to suit every taste and occasion. Come rain or shine, here are the best jackets to invest in now and the spring outfits to wear with them.
The Denim Jacket
Whether it’s indigo and pristine or faded and vintage-inspired, the denim jacket is a tried-and-tested wardrobe essential. A hard-working wardrobe classic, it is the sort of piece you can shrug on over everything, from laid-back daytime looks to evening dresses. If you’re wondering how to style a denim jacket, a cropped style in vibrant blue is the perfect day-to-night piece, styled with a midi dress by day, then dressed up with wide-leg trousers and heels for a night out. However, one of SS24’s biggest trends, denim-on-denim is the only way you’ll be seeing the industry’s most stylish women wearing it. For a polished take on the Canadian tuxedo, pair jeans with a coordinating denim jacket, like this style in a true blue which can be worn on repeat. Just be sure to keep accessories classic: pared-back leather sandals will elevate the utility fabric, while a structured tote bag will add sleek sophistication.
The Utility Jacket
Utility jacket, chore jacket, worker jacket: they all seek to describe more or less the same garment, a jacket of blue-collar origins which has been adopted as part of the workwear trend. With a practical design and adventurous feel, a utility jacket is ideal for bracing the elements on cooler spring days. A flexible wardrobe staple for between the seasons, a lighter ‘shacket’ style made from crisp cotton can be worn alone on sunnier days, or layered under a flowing trench for texture when temperatures dip. For weekend dressing, size up for an oversized, boxy fit, whilst the utility-inspired details will give you extra style points.
The Leather Jacket
Styles come and go, but a leather jacket is a true wardrobe investment that will see you through thick and thin and only get better with age. Synonymous with rock ‘n’ roll and associated with underground subcultures, it has the ability to add instant cool to just about any look. Perfect for spring’s changeable conditions, a form fitting, second-skin style will help keep the chill out, whilst pairing equally as well with flowing dresses as it will tailored trousers and ankle boots. As the jacket is a statement in itself, opt for a less-is-more approach when it comes to styling. Try yours layered over a crisp white T-shirt or a cashmere jumper on cooler days, finished with simple gold hoops and a pared-back trainers.
The Blazer
A foundational piece for every wardrobe, the blazer’s style mileage extends well beyond the office. Having shed its natural two-piece, tailored-trouser companion to become an independent staple, the blazer has established itself as one of the most versatile items to have on rotation. From dawn till dusk, winter to spring, a blazer will look the part to just about wherever you’re headed, whether that be a wedding, a work meeting or a weekend brunch. If you’re styling a suit for work opt for elevated basics such as a T-shirt or satin shirt, however we think it’s best worn to elevate casual pieces, such as styled with denim and a vest top as the perfect desk-to-dinner piece. Looking for something tonal and timeless? Switch up your winter blacks for this structured style in a creamy beige that is perfect for spring – wear yours with a tonal slip skirt and a neutral top.
The Bomber Jacket
The bomber jacket’s retro silhouette makes it an effortlessly cool choice, while the shell material is practical for windy, trans-seasonal days. Having transcended its military roots, the bomber jacket is a modern wardrobe staple, working just as well with dresses and skirts as it does joggers or tailored trousers. For a dressed-up option, consider this chocolate-brown goat-suede style which makes a softer, sophisticated alternative to the more practical shell designs. Whereas for a retro-inspired lookoutfit, a logo varsity style inspired by vintage Ivy League uniforms will lend itself to more laid-back looks. One of our favourite spring outfits, lean into the athletic undertones by teaming it with sporty trainers, a crisp cotton T-shirt and a half-zip jumper.
The Trench
Timelessly cool and infinitely versatile, the trench is often considered the ultimate forever piece – and for good reason. While it won’t keep you warm in a snowstorm, it’s perfect for the kind of blustery, showery weather that spring can throw your way. With styles ranging from classic cotton and cool denim to durable gabardine and glossy patent, there’s plenty of styles to choose from to suit any occasion or need, which is where the enduring power of the trench truly lies – in its versatility. One of our favourite women’s spring coats, it can offer easy layering opportunities for every look – from dresses and jeans to knitwear and tailored trousers, whilst the belted waist also ensures a flattering fit with minimal effort.
The Quilted Jacket
While duvet coats may be the ultimate winter warmer, a quilted coat is the perfect transitional style for spring. A hybrid between a puffer and a shell, the quilted jacket is a lightweight liner you can throw over your outfit to add sophisticated warmth. It's not too heavy and not too light, giving you just the right amount of insulation for the tricky in-between temperatures. From practical packable jackets, to boxy onion-quilted bombers, there's endless variety in the styles of quilted jackets, ensuring there's something to suit everyone. Try yours layered over a striped T-shirt, straight-leg jeans and statement boots.
