These are the best lightweight jackets for spring
Ward off spring chill in style with these versatile designs
Words: Zoe Dickens
Perhaps more than any other, spring is a tricky season to dress for. Look outside – if it’s sunny it’s also probably windy and cold. If it’s raining, it’s also unseasonably warm. Then there’s the tendency, at least in Britain anyway, for the spring weather to present us with all four seasons in one day which makes the business of getting dressed a little harder than it first appears.
The answer to all these conundrums, however, is layers. This, of course, isn’t quite so simple if you have to suit up for work (in which case, like many gents before you, it’s time to learn the rules of spring tailoring). But, for casual Fridays and weekends, leaving home with a T-shirt, jumper and lightweight jacket should see you through any scenario seamlessly. So, from timeless favourites to trend-led designs, here are some of our most coveted jackets for spring. (Just remember a backpack for all those discarded layers.)
Classic navy never fails
As far as outerwear goes, it doesn’t get much more versatile than navy. A great alternative to the black winter coat you’ve been wearing for months, navy suits pretty much everyone and, because of this, almost every shape and style of jacket imaginable comes in it. Appeal to your inner minimalist with Sunspel’s fuss-free Harrington or opt for something a little more utilitarian in the form of Sir Plus’ chore jacket. Feel like a little risk-free experimentation? Séfr’s corduroy jacket is the textural piece your wardrobe has been waiting for.
Play it cool in an overshirt
Overshirts are an excellent option for both the slighter warmer and slightly colder days of the season. Layer under a coat and over a jumper in early spring and wear with just a T-shirt or polo through late spring and summer. And, since you’re going to be wearing it a lot, you can afford to push the boat out. Loro Piana’s chic grey option may seem expensive but it’s crafted from fine cashmere and boasts the brand’s Storm System waterproof coating so it’s ideal whatever the weather – making the cost-per-wear very reasonable indeed.
With its more relaxed cut, an overshirt can also be a great way of introducing some colour or pattern to your outfit. NN07’s checked flannel version would look great with black jeans and a white T-shirt while Universal Works’ burgundy option pairs well with both neutral and richer jewel tones.
Stand out with a statement jacket
Not one for blending into the crowd? A statement jacket is the easiest way to take your outfit from everyday to eye-catching – and tap into some of spring/summer ’20’s biggest trends. Polo Ralph Lauren’s windbreaker hit the nail on the head when it comes to this season’s resurgence in preppy styles while Dries Van Noten gives a nod to modern tailoring’s new way with pinstripes with its beige jacket. Folk’s panelled number, meanwhile, is quirky and fun but sticks to a more neutral palette making it supremely easy to pull off.
Nice and neutral
And if neutrals are your thing then the menswear market is bursting with options this season. Barbour can always be relied to for a hardy trans-seasonal jacket and its Royston Harrington is just the thing – we’re particularly fond of the corduroy collar detailing. Traditional fieldwear brand Holland & Holland also knows a thing or two about great jackets and its take on the bomber, crafted from olive wool, is the perfect meeting of old and new. Finally, pair Tommy Hilfiger’s Flex jacket with dark chinos and a light blue Oxford for the ultimate in casual Friday dressing.
Beat spring shower in these stylish raincoats…
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