Summer Jackets

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!

Nadia Linen Jacket from Jacqui E (6 colours!) 

Just Jeans Trucker Jacket sizes 6-18

An alternative to the classic denim jacket is a denim ‘shacket’ – a jacket/shirt hybrid. I Love this one from Zara

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 linen raglan sleeve jacket on sale $99.95

Elk Dahme Linen jacket in 3 colours, sizes 6-18

THE BOMBER

Bomber jackets are a great casual style that can add a bit of an edge to your look. You can choose a quilted option for something more transeasonal, or something sporty to dress down your tailored separates.

Just Jeans Quilted Bomber sizes 6-16

Forcast Bomber via The Iconic sizes 4-16

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.

Just Jeans Utility Jacket

THE CASUAL BLAZER

If blazers are really your thing (like me) and you love the idea of a softer version, there are an abundance of linen blazers around this season. Some of them are even unlined meaning 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 – that’s what linen is designed to do.

Portmans Lasting Long Linen Blazer $129.95

Jacqui E 3/4 Sleeve short linen blazer (3 colours)

Trenery Linen Yarn longline blazer sizes 4-18

Sussan double breasted linen blazer sizes 6-18

Assembly Label double breasted blazer $150

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 Leather Jacket $310

Sportscraft Leather Jacket sizes 6-18

Assembly Label Leather Jacket $300

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!