I think jackets have almost taken over from statement necklaces as my favourite accessory!
Yup, that’s right – I see them as an accessory. Mainly because by adding a jacket, you can completely change an outfit (much like jewellery or a shoe).
Autumn is the perfect time to pull out your jackets – it’s not really coat weather (and is it ever in Auckland? Really?) but it’s also cool enough (especially at night now) to need that little extra layer.
So I’ve pulled together 10 of my favourite light weight jackets that are perfect to take you into Autumn, and I’ve also got some expert styling tips on how to find the right shape and fit when jacket-shopping.
But first, here are my faves!
SHOP THE JACKETS
The Ultimate Denim Jacket: Cait & Co stretch denim jacket $94.90
The Lightweight Trench: Decjuba soft luxe trench $149.95^
The Embellished Beauty: Zara Embriodered Jacket $159.00
The Soft Suedette Jacket: Crossroads suedette biker jacket $79.95
The Ponte Blazer: Jeanswest ponte striped blazer $89.99^
The Floral Blazer: Max “Hannah” hooded bomber jacket $139.99^
The Embroidered Cargo Jacket: H&M short cargo jacket $89.99
The On-Trend Colour Jacket: Dotti mustard suedette biker jacket $89.99^
The Floral Kimono: CottonOn “Flora” frill kimono $20 (on sale)^
The Long-line Vest: Dotti snug lon-line vest $59.99^
Some great lightweight choices there right? So here are some quick expert tips when you’re buying a jacket to make sure you get the fit, size and cut right.
SIZE DOWN: I usually size down in most jackets. You don’t need to be able to do it up!
But you DO want it to fit neatly across your shoulders and back, for a snug, streamline look. Saying that, think about what you are going to layer under it, is there enough room for a lightweight knit? Or are you ok with just a tee?
WHAT ARE YOU WEARING IT WITH: Are you mainly a jeans/pants girl? You can go for something with a slightly longer fit that comes down more to the hip and it won’t drag your frame down.
If you’re more likely to wear it with a skirt of dress, look for a more cropped style (like the bangin’ biker jackets) as they will crop in nicely at the waist.
If in doubt, try the jacket on with the kind of things you would normally wear it with!
EXPOSE YOUR WRISTS: This is stylist’s trick 101! If the sleeve of the jacket feels bulky and boxy (even if it doesn’t) try rolling the cuffs up a little to expose your wrist.
This trick not only exposes the smallest part of your arm, it also helps just take some of the bulk and manliness out of jackets.
So there are you have it folks! Now is the time to start updating your jacket wardrobe, and there are so many cool options out there for you to choose from at the mo – which is your fave? Tell me in the comments below, I’d love to know!