Plaid jackets for the fall
No one likes getting out their heavy winter coats too early, especially when fall weather can be so unpredictable. So, having jackets to layer is a good alternative. Plaid jackets are a great addition to your fall wardrobe and more versatile than you might think.
Plaid jackets rival denim jackets in the autumn months as a piece that can be worn anytime, anywhere. Not only are plaids trending right now, but patterns on patterns are also in style. So if you’re already wearing florals, you can still throw on a plaid jacket without overthinking it.
What to look for in a plaid jacket
Material
Plaid jackets come in a variety of materials. Many designers use wool, polyester or acrylic blends for warmth. Lighter plaid-patterned jackets focus more on wind and water-resistant features; these jackets usually have zippers rather than the traditional button-up. If you’re looking for a completely waterproof jacket, see the BestReviews buying guide.
Pockets
Most plaid jackets have two chest pockets, but zippered jackets sometimes also have front and side pockets. There are even plaid jackets with a hidden pocket inside.
Plaid jacket cost
You can find plaid jackets at many prices. Some more affordable button-down jackets cost $30-$60, but a really durable plaid jacket that will last you for several seasons typically starts at around $100. The difference is mainly in the materials, the brand and the quality of the jacket.
Best plaid jackets
Best high-end plaid jacket
Tory Burch Yarn-Dyed Double-Knit Track Jacket: available at Tory Burch
Our take: A modern twist on the classic 1970s tracksuit jacket, perfect for a cool fall.
What we like: This track jacket is made with a soft, stretchy nylon-elastane. It features zip pockets to keep your belongings secure and doesn’t require dry cleaning.
What we dislike: This is one of the more expensive jackets on the list.
Best versatile plaid shirt jacket
BB Dakota by Steve Madden Eldridge Jacket: available at REVOLVE
Our take: You can dress this “shacket” up or down, making it perfect for either a night out or a night in. Throw it on anytime in the fall or winter.
What we like: This affordable option features a warm midweight fabric. It comes with two side seam pockets.
What we dislike: It has limited sizing and doesn’t come in many color combinations.
Best plaid suit jacket
Tommy Hilfiger Striped Contrast-Trim Jacket: available at Macy’s
Our take: This plaid jacket is preppy and fashionable, making it perfect for the office or for dressing up denim.
What we like: The contrast trim makes this jacket stand out, and it’s the perfect item for completing an outfit.
What we dislike: This jacket is dry clean only.
Best plaid jacket for cold weather
Women’s Fleet Street Plaid Puffer Jacket: available at Kohl’s
Our take: Depending on your climate, this warm, puffy jacket could last through most of the winter.
What we like: No need for a scarf since this jacket features a warm standup collar that zips to the top.
What we dislike: This is another dry clean-only jacket, and it’s more expensive than most other jackets on this list.
Best plaid windbreaker jacket
Tory Burch Yarn-Dyed Plaid Windbreaker Jacket: available at Tory Burch
Our take: If you need to weather the blustery autumn or spring, this plaid windbreaker is a good option.
What we like: Perfect for light layering, this jacket is easy to care for, water-repellent and water-resistant.
What we dislike: More expensive than your basic windbreaker.
Best outdoorsy plaid jacket
Dickie’s Women’s Quilted Plaid Flannel Jacket: available at Amazon
Our take: This cozy and functional jacket can be worn on its own or layered under a heavier winter coat.
What we like: This quilted jacket comes in different color and pattern options, including checked and grey.
What we dislike: Though it’s perfect for the fall and winter season, it’s less fashionable than some of the other picks.
Best wool plaid jacket
LNA Oversized Boyfriend Jacket: available at REVOLVE
Our take: The heavier fabric gives this jacket more structure than a lot of the other shirt jackets (also known as “shackets”).
What we like: The boyfriend jacket has a classic look with warm fabric and retro colors. Made in the USA.
What we dislike: It’d be nice to see more sizing options, and it is dry clean only.
Best fashionable plaid jacket
Riley and Rae Cropped Plaid Jacket: available at Macy’s
Our take: A fun take on the classic plaid look, this jacket has bright colors, a unique silhouette and is incredibly stylish.
What we like: This cropped jacket is colorful and comes in plenty of sizes. Large front pockets are perfect for holding a smartphone.
What we dislike: This jacket is dry clean only.
Best buffalo check plaid jacket
BB Dakota by Steve Madden Plaid Shirt Jacket: available at REVOLVE
Our take: The buffalo-check plaid in this jacket is a common theme for fall and winter.
What we like: Available at a good price, it comes in several colors, so you can wear it with just about anything.
What we dislike: Limited sizing available.
Best plaid jacket for him
Tommy Hilfiger Performance Faux Memory Bomber Jacket: available at Amazon
Our take: A fashionable jacket from the men’s section that comes in other patterns, too.
What we like: This one has a cozy quilted lining, a hidden inside pocket and is machine washable.
What we dislike: The other patterns have plenty of sizing options, but the plaid has fewer sizes available.
Best bang for your buck plaid jacket
Legendary Whitetails Maplewood Hooded Shirt Jacket: available at Amazon
Our take: If you want a truly classic plaid jacket with functional quality and a lumberjack look, this jacket is an excellent option.
What we like: With lots of fun color combinations to choose from, this comfortable flannel shirt jacket is a great choice at a reasonable price. It features a quilted insulation layer and drawstring hood.
What we dislike: Some reviewers felt the fit wasn’t right in the arms.
Ashley Clayton Kay is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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