Shopping can be a colossal waste of time, especially if you don’t know what you’re looking for. In a time where fast fashion seems to pump out a new collection every week, it’s nearly impossible to keep up with their relentless turnover rates to find a style you like. Whether you’re looking for a light jacket for summer evenings or a heavier option to stand up to harsh winters, the options are endless. Luckily, we’re here to teach a quick lesson about some popular jacket styles to make your search a little easier. We’ve also included some brand suggestions, starting with a lower price point, leading into much higher-end suggestions.
Varsity Jacket
A casual option that’s often overshadowed by the likes of bombers and MA-1’s, the varsity jacket is a clean jacket that’s suitable for almost any occasion. Inspired by the Letterman jackets worn by varsity athletes, they come in a wide variety of shapes and colors. Perfect for any occasion, varsity jackets and be dressed up or down.
Brands to consider: H&M, Zara, Golden Bear, Roots, A.P.C., Sandro, Saint Laurent
Bomber/MA-1
In recent years, bombers have become the go-to for anyone looking for a simple, light casual jacket. Characterized by the oversized and padded silhouette, bombers and MA-1s can be found in almost any fast fashion outlet. Bombers are a perfect casual option that won’t break the bank.
Brands to consider: H&M, Topman, Pull & Bear, Alpha Industries, Stone Island, ToJ
M65
One of the many military-inspired jackets, the M65’s iconic silhouette is defined by its boxy shape and four pocket design. While they can be found in a wide variety of colors and variations, the most common iteration is made of a water-repellent, olive-green fabric like waxed cotton.
Brands to Consider: Urban outfitters, Jack & Jones, Alpha Industries, WTAPS, Visvim
Double Rider Leather Jacket
Definitely one of the more popular leather jacket styles, the double rider gets its name and style from motorcycle culture. Often referred to as a perfecto, the style gained popularity after it’s release by Schott in 1928. Since then, many companies have created their own version of the jacket, so it’s up to you to decide which is the best.
Brands to Consider: Zara, Schott, Undercover, ToJ, Balmain, Blackmeans, Saint Laurent
Coach/Flight Jacket
The coach jacket comes in many shapes and forms, which led us to mention the flight jacket as part of this style. Coach jackets are about as simple as it gets; A collar, buttons up the middle, with two side pockets. Imagine a button down shirt in a thicker fabric and more structure. Flight jackets fall into the same category, but are often made of wool or heavy cotton, with a fur trim on the collar. While coach jackets are definitely a more casual style, flight jackets can be dressed up a little, and go great with a collared shirt and dress trousers.
Brands to consider: Asos, Topman, A.P.C., Supreme, Acne Studios, Undercover
Fishtail Parka
The jacket gets its name from the split-tail design that parallels the silhouette of the tail of a fish. The style was developed for use in the military, as the “tail” section could be tied up around your legs for warmth, or to keep you dry in wet weather. Traditionally seen in the same olive green as the M65, fishtail parkas also come in a variety of colors and materials. Many are waterproof and perfect for wet conditions, while others are lined with fur for use during the winter.
Brands to consider: Military Surplus, Zara, Alpha Industries x Ace Hotel, Sandro, Canada Goose
Trucker
The last style of our essential jacket collection is the trucker jacket. The style is timeless and has been around for decades, with Levi’s paving the way for many other brands. Often seen in denim, trucker jackets are more versatile than you’d think. Many brands have come up with their own versions of the jacket, in a wide variety of colors and fabrics. Any denim version is an informal choice that is perfect for everyday wear, whereas a suede version could be worn for a night on the town.
Brands to consider: Levi’s, Acne Studios, Levi’s, Saint Laurent, any designer collab with Levi’s