Many of us wouldn’t mind if summer stuck around an extra month (or two), but if there’s one silver lining to the start of the fall season, aside from PSLs on the regular, it’s updating our wardrobes accordingly. According to celebrity stylist Soneca Guadara, kicking off autumn with a new jacket is a must. “As we embrace the cooler temperatures, you want to look for a coat that layers well and can be a statement piece on its own,” she says. A good fall jacket is not too light, not too thick, and unlike a winter coat that covers you like a cocoon, it has enough style to pull your outfit together.
If you only own four jackets for the fall season, let them be a leather, denim, blazer, and bomber; these are the statement-making pieces that will live on through the decades, adds celebrity stylist Amber Padilla. “These pieces should be classic, high-quality investment pieces that do not implement any trends in color, design, or style details,” she says. Of course, that’s not say you shouldn’t pick up one trendy option, like a fun faux fur or plaid-printed piece of outerwear. Ahead, the stylist-approved fall jackets that will take you from crisp mornings through chilly nights. Scroll on and shop your faves.
Lyssé Trina Vegan Leather Jacket ($158; bloomingdales.com)
We love the slim, flattering fit and asymmetrical front zip on this moto-style jacket. But whatever leather jacket style you choose, NYC-based stylist and personal shopper Lana Blanc recommends opting for one with black hardware instead of gold or silver, which can be difficult to match to the rest of your outfit and accessories.
Long Wool-blend Coat ($149; hm.com)
A great transitional piece to take you from early fall through the winter months is a must, according to Guadara. She suggests searching for a wool blend coat in a trendy pattern, like this taupe plaid print, to jazz up an otherwise simple look.
BDG Urban Outfitters Hooded Crop Denim Jacket ($94; nordstrom.com)
Consider this denim bomber a trendy take on two classics. The versatile style layers just as well with fall dresses as it does with joggers, and the oversized, slouchy fit is both comfortable and cool.
BAGATELLE.NYC Plaid Shirt Jacket ($128; bloomingdales.com)
This summer was all about that picnic prairie look, and come fall, you can count on cozy mountain vibes. Enter this plaid shirt jacket with chest front pockets. Campfire not included.
Sam Edelman Water Repellent Trench Coat ($180; nordstrom.com)
You can count on a classic khaki trench to stay in style season after season. “It’s light enough to be layered over your favorite knits and has you looking instantly polished no matter what you have on underneath,” says Guadara. While you can certainly find a classic trench at almost any price point, she recommends investing in a high-quality one that will last for years.
Avec Les Filles Periwinkle Coat ($279; anthropologie.com)
If you’re looking for a pop of color this season, make it periwinkle. This jacket is made from a lightweight wool blend that’s great for transitional season, and the pretty blue shade makes the look.
Off Duty Olive Cargo Jacket ($54; tobi.com)
Everyone needs a jacket that they can wear outside as well as inside without looking like their blood runs cold. This bomber fits the bill. It has relaxed sleeves that look cool pushed up or pulled down and a hidden front zipper with button details. It’s cropped, too, so you can pair it with high-waisted jeans and army boots.
Ladies’ Night Pocketed Faux Fur Coat ($108; vicicollection.com)
It doesn’t look like the animal print trend is going anywhere any time soon, so you shouldn’t hesitate to go all out this fall by rocking a bougie leopard-print jacket. Pair with faux leather pants and rocker boots and hit the town.
Uniqlo Women Ultra Light Down Jacket ($70; uniqlo.com)
“Down jackets are great because they typically take up little to no room in your closet yet provide so much warmth,” says Guadara. “These lightweight, water-repellent, and easy-to-layer jackets are great for running errands or an outdoor workout.” Plus, they come in a ton of colors, including “new neutrals” like dusty rose and olive.
BlankNYC Ruched Sleeve Plaid Blazer ($98; bloomingdales.com)
Even if you’re working from home for the foreseeable future, your wardrobe should consist of at least one blazer—and a sophisticated plaid print like this is perfect for fall. “It’s a versatile piece that can transition from workday to evening,” says Blanc. You can throw it over your shoulders before a Zoom call, tie it around your waist, and even wear it as a skirt for a night out.”
Free People Tessa Teddy Coat ($168; freepeople.com)
Teddy coats are back this season, and how badly do you just want to snuggle up on the couch underneath this bad boy? Cozy is your calling this fall, and an oversized teddy is one way to pull off the look in an effortlessly classy way.
Spanx Drape Front Jacket ($178; spanx.com)
What’s not to love about this easy blazer jacket? It’s made from Spanx’s signature ponte fabric, which is not only super comfortable but also high quality, and has faux leather detailing. Throw it over a pair of leggings or skinny jeans, and you’re good to go.
Market Jacket Camel ($72; vicicollection.com)
You just can’t go wrong with a suede jacket for fall. This one is faux suede, hence its great price tag, but the buttery soft material is stretchy, lightweight, and comfortable enough for all-day wear.
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