What does one wear in the warmer months when it’s not quite hot enough to go sans jacket? If you’re after a good blazer for work or smart casual, you’re covered. Likewise in winter, all your fave stores will have a good coat or two to choose from.
Many of you might have the old faithful cardigan still in your wardrobe, the one you rely on in these exact circumstances. When the weather is too hot or the occasion too casual for a blazer, the trusty cardigan is a good back up.
But what if you want something more “with-it” than a cardy? An easy throw over everything that is lightweight, versatile and a bit trendy.
Enter the Summer Jacket; a tricky look to find at this time of the year especially when the focus is heavily on tailored jackets.
Here are my picks for this season’s best jackets and how you can wear them.
THE DENIM JACKET and variations of…
It’s no secret I’m a big fan of the denim jacket and its one of my go-to styles for clients who are looking for the ultimate versatile, casual jacket. There are HEAPS around this season and in a variety of colours too!
And you don’t have to go for the classic dark blue denim either. You can opt for white or khaki or choose a linen version which is lighter in weight, or think 80’s light wash denim and even pink!
What to wear them with? EVERYTHING!
Portmans White Denim Jacket $99.95
Uniqlo Dark Denim Jacket $59.90
Jacqui E Linen Jacket $99.95 in six colours
Sussan Button Through Jacket in Khaki $99.95
Skin and Threads Pink Denim Jacket $220
THE SPORTY CROP
For those who think they’re ‘too old’ to wear a denim jacket… 1. YOU’RE NOT! and 2. If you’re still not convinced, there are alternatives.
This Trenery sporty style linen jacket is a lovely casual style that works well over jeans and shorts. The back pleat and boxy style means it works best over simple, narrow bottoms. Roll up the sleeves to the elbow for a more flattering look by drawing the eye to the waist and reducing the ‘squareness’ of the jacket.
Trenery Sporty Linen Jacket $249
THE BOMBER
Bomber jackets are a great casual style that can add a bit of an edge to your look. I’m a big fan of the brand bassike and their classics with a twist if you like something a little different and unique. But I know the cost is high (Made in Australia, you get what you pay for)
However you can achieve a similar funky look with the Veronika Maine, Funkis and Gorman bombers below.
Bassike Ruched Neck Jacket $795
Veronika Maine Black Bomber $249
THE UTILTY JACKET
Another go-to style is the utility or anorak. Still structured enough to be smart casual, but casual enough for the weekends with jeans and sneakers. The anorak is great because you can adjust the drawstring to create some shape at the waist.
Jigsaw Military Linen jacket $249 in navy and pale grey
Sportscraft Utility Anorak $229.99
THE CASUAL BLAZER
If blazers are really your thing (like me) and you love the idea of a softer version, there are a few linen blazers around this season. The fact that most of them are unlined means they’re quite lightweight and easy to throw on in the warmer temperatures.
The linen blazer can even replace your corporate blazer in summer, offering a more casual, summery look. And don’t forget to embrace any creasing!
Sussan Pinstripe Linen Blazer $129.99
Sportscraft Striped Linen Blazer $229.99
THE LEATHER JACKET
A fine leather jacket is a great option for the warmer months, and this one from Elk has always been one of my favourites. Unlined, it’s a perfect throw-over when the sun goes down and the temperature cools. The colour is super versatile and the draped front is flattering on all shapes. This is one of those jackets that gets better with age.. as the leather softens it will feel like a second skin.
Elk Fine Stone Leather Jacket $310
And for those of you who REALLY love your cardies… check out Dangerfield for a great range of traditional styles and lots of fun colours.
Do you have a fave from above? Tell me what you’re keen to try!
