Finding The Perfect Jacket. I was working with a client this week, outfitting her wardrobe for spring by integrating some new pieces and pinpointing any gaps. She already has a beautiful wardrobe with so much versatility…

But this time of year, it’s not just about the usual trifecta of top, bottom, and shoes…

There’s a 4th piece we can’t forget…

THE JACKET

Until we hit those higher temperatures (say June/July), not having the right jacket can really limit your outfit combinations.

You know that feeling —you put together the perfect outfit, only for it to be let down by the jacket you throw on top.

Or even worse, you feel all bundled up and restricted because your layers won’t fit under it.

And before you know it, you’re dressing around the jacket instead of the other way around.

The demands on this one item are pretty high, aren’t they?

It needs to:

• Keep you warm
• Potentially keep you dry
• Be stylish because it’s the first thing people see
• Complement, and hopefully enhance, your outfit
• Be roomy enough for layers but still fit intentionally

It’s basically got to be everything, everywhere, all at once.

I was originally going to dive into the jacket styles dominating this season, but I’ll save that for next week.

Right now, I want to help you create a checklist of what you should actually be looking for.

A jacket that does all the things… or at least most of them.

Here’s your checklist:

When layers are essential, your jacket is the outfit. So, it deserves your attention.

Here are the 3 things you need to consider before buying a jacket:

1. Colour

   • If you want a jacket that goes with everything, choose a neutral colour that works well with your wardrobe. Navy, chocolate, khaki, or cream are great alternatives to black. But if you’ve got your neutrals covered, look for a colour that lifts those neutrals.
   • Darker colours will slim your silhouette.

2. Length

   • First, understand your proportions and what you’re aiming for with your silhouette. (If you’re unsure about this, I’m working on something called ‘The Figure Fixers’—it’s launching soon!)
   • If you wear mostly dresses and skirts (jacket will be waist, hip, classic, or full length), or mostly trousers and jeans, you will have the most length options (depending on your proportions and desired silhouette, see above!)

3. Fabric

   • This is all about functionality. Does it need to be water-resistant? What temperature range are you dealing with?
   • Your fabric choice should also match your lifestyle and style preferences. For casual or sporty styles, fabrics like cotton, fleece, or twill will work well. But if you want the jacket to elevate your look, consider fabrics like wool, satin, or suede.

(We’ll talk about the specific styles next week!)

To make your jacket hunt easier, here’s a script you can use when talking to a sales associate at your favourite store:

“I’m looking for a (length) jacket in (colour). It needs to work with (dresses/skirts/trousers/jeans) and ideally will be made of (fabric type), as I’m looking for it to (function) in (name the season).”

TOP TIP: Be sure to wear the outfit you need the jacket for so you can check the proportions.

Once you’ve nailed down your criteria, finding the perfect jacket becomes so much easier.

It’s as simple as 1, 2, 3.

Penny

P.S. Found your dream jacket but not sure how to style it? Outfitting is what we do best. You won’t believe the potential of your wardrobe—let me show you… Book your call.

Alternatively, you can reach me here.