5 Must-Have Fall Jackets

Fall (or autumn… I don’t judge) is officially here!

The temperatures dipping and the pumpkin spice lattes ready-for-sipping signal that it’s now time for jackets to make an appearance. Here are the 5 jackets I deem as must-haves in the autumnal months. Enjoy!

1. Denim Jacket

The classic “jean jacket” is the perfect addition to any casual getup this season. Available in a magnitude of styles and colours (acid-wash, light-wash, dark-wash, etc…), you’d be hard-pressed to find one that didn’t suit your individual style.

My favourite way to wear the piece is either with a white statement t-shirt underneath, or a patterned top.

Easy and budget-friendly additions that can liven it up include scarves or a bold necklace. Another fun way to spruce up a denim jacket is to add studs or patches to the jacket itself.

Patches can easily be purchased from craft shops or hipster stores (I’m looking at you, Urban Outfitters). Another neat way to jazz up your jacket is to buy patches of specific countries you visit while on vacation, as this can be a fun conversation starter. (Quick tip: Make sure to check whether they are sew-on patches or iron-on patches before purchasing!)

As for the studs, going to a local craft shop and buying a pack of studs is an inexpensive way to achieve the look. A couple of hours with a glass (or two) of wine + Netflix would make the task of bedazzling the jacket quite enjoyable!

2. (Faux) Leather Jacket

There’s something undeniably cool about a (p)leather jacket; whenever I see one, images of John Travolta in Grease or Debbie Harry from Blondie conjure up in my mind.

This timeless piece can either complement an already badass ensemble (think ripped jeans and a black t-shirt with a chain necklace), or add some much needed edge to a quintessentially girly look (a floral dress or chiffon skirt). It also adds a layer of much needed warmth in these cooler autumn months, while not sacrificing your style in the least!

There’s nothing wrong with going classic with a rider or biker style, but if you do wish to freshen up the classic piece, look for one in a bold colour. Blues and purples are my personal favourite alternative colours, but I find red leather jackets quite striking, as well.

Whatever you have on underneath a leather jacket, as long as you rock it with confidence, you’ll seem like the coolest person in the room.

3. Bomber Jacket

Originally inspired from military uniforms, the bomber jacket has reinvented itself this season with a variety of unique colours and textures.

The quintessential bomber jacket of today is both stylish and comfortable, and adds a nice sporty or laid-back edge to an outfit. They easily top a pair of jeans and a t-shirt, or add some interest to a more girly look such as a pleated skirt and turtleneck.

If you need further style inspiration for this piece, google Karamo from Queer Eye. He seems to be perpetually sporting a bomber jacket, but boy, does he pull it off well!

Bomber jackets are good pieces that will transition well from fall to spring. Good deal!

4. Trench Coat

Fall days may bring a rainy haze. On those occasions, having a trench coat is a foolproof way of ensuring you can still look fly while keeping dry.

Trench coats come in a variety of styles, but a classic double-breasted number is a timeless addition to your wardrobe. Although black, brown, and khaki are the easiest colours to match, a brightly coloured trench coat really makes a statement. Hot pink, red, or emerald green are unique colours to try if you want to add a pièce de résistance to your look.

This piece adds polish to long skirts or dresses, and also looks chic over jeans or khaki pants. I also find scarves and turtlenecks add some interest when they poke out of the collar.

You really can’t go wrong with what you choose to wear underneath it!

5. Plaid Jacket

Plaid is rad! Make your autumnal fashion choices pop with this fun print.

Depending on the fabric, plaid can turn out looking either incredibly cozy, preppy, or punk.

A basic ensemble of leggings or jeans with a patterned top benefit from a nice plaid piece in a thick, textured fabric. This makes those especially cold evenings easy to bear.

For the ultimate preppy look, try a plaid jacket with a plaid skirt à la Cher in Clueless or Blair Waldorf in Gossip Girl.

My personal favourite way to wear plaid is with pieces that are a nod to grunge/ punk. Release your inner Sex Pistol or The Who when you complement your look with a choker, fishnet pieces, or chunky chained belts and jewellery.

Plaid can seem overwhelming at first, but it is in fact quite easy to wear. Take a chance, and you’ll soon be mad for plaid!