How to style jackets for spring
Sponsored by Blue Illusion
If I had to nominate one clothing piece that offered the most outfit versatility across most of the year, the jacket would win hands down.
Or should that be, arms in?
A jacket has the wardrobe power to change a casual outfit to semi-corporate; a jeans and tee to a night out with the girls; a summer frock to special occasion.
It took me a while to work out the power of the jacket but my personal discovery was borne out of wardrobe necessity.
My work life is mostly of the casual-at-home-variety but frequently I travel for client meetings and events in Sydney or Melbourne.
Short of creating a whole new wardrobe just for those trips, I discovered that by just adding a jacket to my otherwise work-at-home outfits, I would not only look professional but I would feel comfortable in a meeting or networking situation.
The jacket pulled the outfit together as one, lifting it up a notch in the process and (not surprisingly) this lifted my confidence up a notch too.
Now I have a whole section devoted to jackets – mostly lightweight ones. They add interest and complete weekend and work outfits.
It’s lightweight jackets that I’ve mostly invested in. The weight of material is one I can wear most of the year – except for the height of summer when even a small sleeve becomes unbearable in Queensland.
What I’ve also learned since The Great Jacket Discovery is that the best time of year to make those year-round purchases is in spring.
This is when most stores and labels offer the greatest selection for us – and in colours and fabrics that will give your wardrobe a boost now and for many seasons to come.
Style ideas
Once spring turns into summer, jackets will all but disappear from the racks.
In this post, I feature three of my favourite jackets for spring from the current collection at Blue Illusion (the white ponti jacket I featured here and here is also a fave and my leather jacket from winter was also embraced on our trip south last week).
Blue Illusion knows jackets. This French-inspired store knows that the jacket is very much a part of a French woman’s wardrobe – for practicality in cool temperatures and for style.
I love the shape of the denim jacket featured below and the stretch European denim is luxe and soft to wear. I’ve used it to “dress up” a casual striped tee and stretch pant. The overall look is still casual but “put together”.
Blue Illusion quilt denim jacket | elbow sleeve scoop neck stripe top | lounge panelled pant | Leona scarf
This statement jacket below has a very French feel about it. The cut, the texture … it all combines for an uber-chic addition to any outfit. It especially works well when contrasted with a pair of jeans. Whenever you create this dressed-up/dressed-down contrast in an outfit, you add interest. This is something French women do very well.
Blue Illusion geometric jacquard seamed jacket | layered applique mesh top | shaping jean | glitter toe ballet flats
I wrote about the classic style of monochrome here and this outfit below is a fresh take on that idea with the addition of mint. The white denim jacket (in the same shape as the blue denim) provides the finishing touch and structure. This combination is great for weekend brunch with the girls.
Blue Illusion white quilt denim jacket | crossover contrast tunic | coloured slim denim bengajean
Style tips
- Start with the basics. I know, I know. I’m always banging on about that aren’t I? With jackets, cover off on the neutrals before being seduced by the colours, patterns and sparkles.
- Denim jackets will always be in style. Team with black or simply throw over a spring frock for a casual weekend brunch look.
- A white jacket is this season’s hottest jacket buys. Jackets have fabulous wardrobe power as discussed above but when combined with white this spring, your outfit is fresher than fresh.
- A coloured or patterned jacket acts like an accessory. I love using jackets this way. My basic outfit of jeans and top or tee is suddenly changed with the addition of a statement jacket – just like if I’d added a necklace or scarf.
- Fit is so important. To avoid feeling and looking “boxy” in a jacket, look for fabrics with stretch so the fit comes with great comfort levels. Ensure the size you buy fits you well across the shoulders and at the top of the arms.
Special offer
Blue Illusion is offering every Styling You reader $25 off their next Blue Illusion purchase.
What say you to the jacket? Have you harnessed the power? Have you embraced the white jacket this season?
Coordinated by The Remarkables Group
*These garments were supplied to me for the creation of this post. Shoes and accessories – except the ballet flats – are my own.
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