As the leaves start to turn and the temperature drops, I always find myself facing the same dilemma: what jackets should I wear? I realized last year that my closet was full of practical, work-appropriate jackets, but I lacked options that looked good when I wanted to dress up a bit more. Finding the right balance between warmth, style, and versatility can be a real challenge, especially when building a capsule wardrobe.
My problem wasn't a lack of jackets, but a lack of the right jackets. I had plenty of sturdy, functional pieces perfect for errands or casual Fridays. However, when I needed something a bit more polished for dinner with friends or a weekend outing, I felt like I was always coming up short. I needed jackets that could bridge the gap between practicality and style – something that could keep me warm and looking good. It felt like a common problem, and I even wished there was a central place to see what everyone else was wearing and getting inspired by.
To solve my jacket woes, I started exploring different styles and brands. I wanted to find pieces that were both functional and fashionable. Here's what I discovered and what I've been wearing:
First, I stumbled upon the classic, slightly worn-in look of a vintage jacket. Something like a "beat to shit bedale from the late 80s" as someone described it. While maybe not that beat-up, the idea of a well-loved, broken-in jacket appealed to me. It has a certain effortless cool that's hard to replicate. It's all about finding something with character and history.
Then, I remembered the Baracuta G9 jacket – a timeless piece that I've always admired. It's a great option for those in-between days when it's not quite cold enough for a heavy coat, but you still need something to keep the chill off. Its clean lines and classic design make it incredibly versatile.
For something a bit more rugged, I considered the Carhartt Detroit Jacket and the Orslow U.S. Army Navy Shirt Jacket. The Carhartt is a workwear staple, but it can be surprisingly stylish when paired with the right outfit. The Orslow shirt jacket offers a similar utilitarian vibe but with a slightly more refined feel.
Finally, I was drawn to the idea of chore coats – specifically, the Drakes chore coats. They offer a relaxed, almost nonchalant elegance. They're perfect for layering and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
While exploring different options, I realized I was missing a good blazer-style jacket. I wanted something that could elevate my outfits and add a touch of sophistication. That’s when I came across the view on store, and I was immediately drawn to the HIGH STREET Newest 2022 Designer Style Women's Double Breasted Lion Buttons Synthetic Leather Blazer Jacket Brown from Gracequeens. The double-breasted design and lion buttons give it a luxurious, designer feel, while the synthetic leather makes it a practical and stylish choice for fall. Gracequeens seems to have some really great options.
I ordered the brown blazer jacket and was pleasantly surprised by the quality. The fit is flattering, and the material feels much more expensive than it is. I've been wearing it with everything from jeans and a t-shirt to dresses and skirts. It's become a go-to piece in my wardrobe for adding a touch of polish to any outfit.
Based on my experience, here are some practical tips for choosing the right fall and winter jackets: