It’s (somehow) that time of year when the calendar suggests it’s time to stow away your summer wardrobe, but the weather indicates it’s not quite time to get entirely bundled up just yet. But if you, like many, look forward to the fall for layered dressing, you’re probably not looking to wait until wintertime to get started — in which case, lightweight jackets are bound to be your MVP of the season.
Let’s be honest, no one likes layering on hefty coats because they have to, but there’s nothing like completing an already great outfit with a chic, lightweight jacket that serves equal parts aesthetic and practical purposes. Because there is such a wide range of styles on the market, you can snag a handful of jackets to rotate throughout the season, and each of them will be able to lend a unique element to any outfit. For instance, there are lightweight trenches to elevate your basics, shackets to pair with jeans, or lightweight puffers to wear on breezier days. Then, jackets that feel more like an integral part of your outfit, you might consider an option that comes with matching bottoms, á la many denim jackets. There are a number of other design elements to keep an eye out for when looking for pieces that can elevate your outfit rather than simply adding on to it, such as artful silhouettes, contrast stitching, mixed media, or textured details.
Ahead, we’ve rounded up 10 lightweight jacket styles for you to shop for fall, and with the right layering, you can carry many of these into winter as well.
Take this season’s denim on denim trend for a spin with this boyfriend jacket from BY.DYLN, paired with its matching high waisted pants or skirt. With an effortless, casual-cool flair, contrast stitching and a classic silhouette come together to make the ultimate statement staple.
Available at Revolve
Biker jackets have quickly become the item of the season, and this ivory number from Zara is one you can mix and match endlessly. If it hasn’t quite begun cooling down where you live, a faux leather option is usually lightweight enough to allow for getting a head start on the look for fall.
Available at Zara
A twill trench is the quintessential lightweight jacket of fall, perfect for styling your tall boots for the season with.
Available at Banana Republic Factory
Shy away from the expected with Veronica Beard’s Emilia jacket. Equal parts a denim jacket and bomber jacket, the contrasting details instantly make this piece the star of the show.
Available at Veronica Beard
Denim jackets are the ultimate goes-with-everything fall jacket, pairing effortlessly with anything from matching denim jeans to a mini skirt, trousers, cargos or even a dress.
Available at Neiman Marcus
