When all of my clients and friends are asking me the same question at the same time, I know there is an itch in our communal closets that needs to be scratched. After a week of rain, breezy sun and 20 degree differences between the low and high temperatures I knew what we had to discuss this week:
We need jackets for when we are trying to leave our coats behind, but still need a little something. A jacket that can layer on the warmth, isn’t too bulky, can take a little sprinkle and easily wraps around our waist or lays across our tote when the sun does finally come out on our commutes home in the evening. The elusive TRANSITIONAL JACKET. (Sorry to loyal reader Leslie T who already has too much outerwear, you better skip this week! :))
I have been living and breathing the research this week, friends. I’ve thought of little else. And while there are oh-so-many out there, the number that fulfilled all of my psychotic requirements remained shockingly low. I was considering everyday wearability (there are some that are actually TOO special), functionality across activities, general cool-factor (like, will this make you feel so great walking out the door?), and of course, style. So I got reallllllly picky. Today’s newsletter may look short and sweet, but I kid you not I spent almost every waking hour this week dissecting this idea. Obsessing over this. Thinking about how, when, where I’d wear these and if they were perfect enough to purchase. So much visualization! So many zoom-ins to look at snaps, zippers and textures.
Initially, I had five categories of five in the mix. But it was just too much. Too overwhelming. Not why you are here! And when thinking about what I want to wear most - with jeans, with skirts, with sweats - it always came back to the utility jacket. There is so much variety in this category. Field jackets, barn jackets, safari jackets. But the overarching elements all hit a similar note: hem hitting mid to low hip, has a decent collection of pockets, a durable fabric and had an ever so slight hint of design.
There are the classics of course: Barbour, Bean, etc. But what I’m loving lately, is all the variation out there that is a bit hard to place, while still feeling like you are wearing a classic piece. Security blankets that also push the envelope!?
The best part about this trend is that it might actually be better at lower price points. Yes, I would LOVE to own the Row’s Frank jacket (I’m learning to live with longing Claire and Erica!), but the designer-ification of this trend for the most part, makes it harder to style for everyday. There’s something about the anonymity of a jacket like this becomes it’s calling card.
For example, we all LOVED the Prada SS24 show, obviously. But take those barn jackets and place them next to jeans and a sneaker and they get a little loud. They need expert level styling to feel like part of an outfit and not a show piece. Know what I mean?
And point number two: these jackets are often made from some sort of cotton base, making it easier to find a good one at a lower price point. I often remind people that if they are going to shop fast fashion, the best way to find something that will look expensive is to stick with natural fibers. Utility jackets sit well in this category.
Below, five jackets that feel simple but still interesting. Have enough room for a woman’s hips (why I’m not just telling you to go out and get a men’s Barbour and call it a day!), a great range of neutral colors, roomy enough sleeves to fit a sweater and beautifully simple snaps and zips. Enjoy, enjoy. And tell me which one is your favorite in the comments!! :) :) :) :)
FIVE FANTASTIC FIELD JACKETS. PERIOD.
BONUS! FIVE MORE JACKETS THAT TOOK ALL MY STRENGTH TO NOT ADD TO CART WHILE RESEARCHING THIS WEEK’S THEME
That’s all. Five absolutely fantastic jackets that I can find not one flaw in. A dream mix of trans-seasonal outerwear: A cashmere cocoon coat that gives just the right amount of drama. A sporty parka in a super luxe fabric is the dressy/casual mix I can’t get enough of. DO I NEED THAT TOTEME FIELD COAT WITH LEATHER COLLAR?!!? I fall asleep thinking about it. A gingham parka!!!! OMG! Sadly there is only one, and luckily for you all, not my size. Someone act quick. A brown leather cropped jacket with peter pan collar? How good would she be with allllll of our skirts? UGH! Now go enjoy this sartorial roller coaster weather, and feel great in it. Rain or shine.
Your TRULY,
Becky
Love these jackets but I am sticking to my Barbour 🤪 cause at least it is rainproof (really rain proof)
For those willing to thrift, there are some real beauties on ebay right now. Just sayin....