Like a winter coat, a well-tailored jacket can be a major investment. But it`s an investment that will bring sizable returns because of its versatility and ability to update last year`s wardrobe.
Designer Bettina Riedel calls the jacket a ”key item” because it
”bridges the gap between work and weekend wear and is available in different shapes to suit different body types.”
A jacket can be layered over a turtleneck and leggings for a sporty look, or it can be paired with a skirt for the office.
The right jacket-one that`s not too dressy-can be worn with a skirt, pants, jeans or dress. And, in keeping with the trend toward mixing formal and informal fabrics for evening, a wool jacket can be paired with satin, velvet or chiffon for a change of pace.
Specialty retailer Express shows tailored jackets in houndstooth patterns paired with sarong skirts and color-blocked wool jackets in dark, rich hues combined with matching walking shorts for a city chic look. Unconstructed rayon gabardine jackets in bright colors are made to be worn over floral-printed stretch dresses. Wool blazers are matched with miniskirts for a sophisticated suit look.
Jackets for him, too
Jackets for men are also bridging the gap between business and weekend wear. And leading the way is the ”hybrid jacket” (half outerwear, half tailored), according to Chip Tolbert, fashion director of the Men`s Fashion Association, a trade group representing manufacturers and designers.
What is a hybrid jacket?
It is a semilined, dual-purpose coat also known as the weekend coat, sweater coat and casual coat. It has such functional elements as open patch pockets, button-hole sleeves and varying collar styles.
These days, European men wear this jacket on the street and in the office. It can be layered or worn independently to function with great versatility in any man`s wardrobe.
The hybrid jacket comes in a wide array of colors, but the most popular ones will be the muted neutrals and rich, dark shades, according to Tolbert.
