The 5 summer jacket styles every woman needs in her wardrobe
Now is the perfect time to invest in a great summer jacket. Even though this season’s heatwave is looming, you’ll still be needing something to throw on ahead of windy days and cool evenings. Plus, if you’re staycationing or embarking on weekend coast trips it’s always wise to have extra layers on hand.
Dressing for these occasions is easier said than done, though; it can be tricky to navigate weather-appropriate dressing at the best of times. Especially in Britain, where surprise heatwaves end abruptly with buckets of rain. And we've all experienced the intermittent sweating and shivering that comes with that temperamental British sunshine.
Save yourself the morning guesswork by investing in a summer jacket. Lightweight and easy to layer, the right one will see you through spring right up until late-September.
From the trusty trench and on-trend tailoring to grown-up anoraks, we’ve rounded up the best styles to buy right now. Invest in a couple of key staples and you’ll be uniformed for any summer occasion – whatever the weather.
The Trench Coat
We’ve put the trench coat in our top spot because it’s a staple that every woman needs in her wardrobe. Versatile, easily dressed up or down and (most importantly) showerproof, it’s the definition of transitional.
Although classic beige styles are the most timeless, there are plenty of interesting options on the high street right now. So, if you feel like experimenting, why not try a lightweight duster coat like Hush's or M&S' pink option?
The Modern Anorak
Anoraks don't have to be frumpy. Thanks to the rise of athleisure and utility trends, fashion and functionality go hand-in-hand once more.
Designers have been experimenting with this coat to create something a little more grown-up (although we'll always have a soft spot for Paddington Bear's yellow number, so we've included a similar style from Hunter).
How to look a little more chic and less happy camper? Go for simple rather than sporty designs (no logos), and look for old-fashioned fastenings like snap buttons and drawstring toggles over high-tech features, which can feel a bit too practical.
The Utility Jacket
The military jacket’s pared-back little sister, utility styles come in the same neutral colours and are usually punctuated with pockets and minimalist hardware. Steer clear of embellished epaulettes or engraved buttons, as the key to this trend is functionality rather than fussiness.
If cropped hemlines don't appeal and oversized fits feel too relaxed, opt for Stories' shacket style – not only flattering, it’s also the perfect balance between smart and casual.
The Blazer
Trouser suits have been all over the catwalk for several seasons and, as a result, tailoring is finally becoming part of our day-to-day wardrobes again.
The blazer has now shaken off its workwear connotations to become a true womenswear staple. We love how it can instantly elevate a pair of jeans or give feminine dresses an edge.
Oversized shapes are the fashion favourite at the moment but traditional, tailored styles can be just as versatile – plus, nipped-in waists are always so flattering.
Boden should be your first stop for blazers this season; the options of cuts and colours are endless. We've included the brand's cropped cotton blazer and versatile navy version in this edit.
The Denim Jacket
If you don’t have a denim jacket in your wardrobe, then you’re missing a trick. Loved by the likes of Marilyn Monroe and Brigitte Bardot back in the 1950s and '60s, this outerwear option has never gone out of fashion. And it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.
If the traditional blue iterations don't tempt you, try a grown-up monochrome version or plump for a different silhouette altogether. Jigsaw has opted for a creamy-hued denim, while Boden has gone for a cropped hem.
The best bit? If you buy one now, it will last you for years – the fabric gets even better with every wash and wear.
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