Spring jackets and spring coats are top of our fashion wish list right now. Why? Well, spring might have sprung, and summer is within sight, but we still find ourselves amidst a transitional weather guessing game. Outerwear needs to not be too thick, not too light, but something that’ll provide refuge if a breeze picks up or the heavens decide to open – and let’s be real, they are opening more than we’d like. So it’s all in the layers right now.
We spend a lot of our time in these intermediate periods. When spring’s not quite here, when summer’s not quite left, when there’s an autumnal breeze but it’s still warm when winter has passed but it’s really rainy… you know the drill. You probably know the wardrobe woes that come with it, too. ‘Transitional fashion’ is often seen as a bit of a confusing, wasteful concept, as if to ‘fill the time’ while you wait for the real season to kick in. And who wants a wardrobe ‘filler’? Not me.
Fashion isn’t the answer to everything, but a good – more importantly, functional – outfit is the answer to the current spring dressing dilemma. And I’m here to tell you functional doesn’t mean boring. Spring layering is, actually, quite fun. No matter the weather, absolutely nothing will stop us from prematurely sitting in a pub garden clinking glasses with our friends. Give us one day of sun and we’re dining al fresco like it’s the height of summer, Aperol Spritz et al. And we might as well look cute, and stay warm and dry, doing it.
There are a few styles we’re coveting this year. The trusty blazers and biker jackets aren’t going anywhere. But we’re also keen to mix it up with some pretty patterns, be that an embroidered Rixo hit, or Ba&sh’s spring take on the bomber jacket. Go classic with a high-street trench coat, or COS’ modern take on the spring go-to in a cropped style. Of course, every spring/summer calls for a staple denim jacket and we’re also still loving ‘countrycore’ thanks to the cult-favourite Frankie Shop’s quilted jacket.
From great blazers and classic trenches to biker-style leather and denim jackets, spring outerwear proves a crucial added layer of warmth. We’ve selected the best layers to make any outfit this season.
The humble blazer
Jeremy Moeller
The most reliable and versatile outerwear layer. Update your blazer for spring with a pastel colorway, or opt for a neutral for a failsafe goes-with-everything pick.
The utility trend
Jeremy Moeller
If practical but stylish is your thing look to the utility trend this season for a laidback look that’ll keep you warm until the sun’s back out.
The patterned look
Christian Vierig
Want to make a statement? Patchwork and embroidered jackets are the fastest way to amp up any outfit.
The ‘country core’ vibe
Valentina Frugiuele
Proving functional is still chic, the ‘countrycore’ trend offers quilted and wax styles, ideal for shielding spring showers.
The leather and suede picks
A biker jacket will serve you well year-round, or try a suede jacket to mix it up. Bonus points for fringing.
The classic denim
Claudio Lavenia
A spring/summer classic – your wardrobe probably already has one of these but the high street is refreshing the trend with oversized and trench styles.
The trench coat
Edward Berthelot
Still unsure? A dependable choice when it comes to spring jackets is, of course, a trench coat. Whether you go classic or cropped, it’s one you’ll reach for again, and again.