One of the best parts of fall: the ability to leave the house in a light layer. There's no clunky coat to ruin the vibe of the outfit, because the jacket is the outfit—and that, my friends, is one of the most beautiful things about the September -November period.
I've spent most of my days in cold states, so I've had a lot of practice with this. A good light jacket is truly timeless, and earns its spot in your wardrobe for years (even decades!). For me, a light jacket has to meet some important criteria: not too trendy, not too limiting, and not flimsy. I have screened the following 34 selects against these rules.
(Image credit: @baileyyburke ) Veronica Beard
Circe Hooded Bubble Jacket
I'm really into this neckline.
Find Me Now The Label
Alma Jacket in Blue
The electric blue pairs so well with the sporty feel of this jacket.
Rumored
Yellowstone Jacket in Cherrywood Suede
The subtle burgundy hue is an absolute yes.
Anine Bing
Yuma Jacket in Cabana Blue
It's the leather collar for me.
Tory Burch
Cropped Crepe Jacket in Brown (Was $990)
A strong contender for my favorite jacket on this list.
Banana Republic
Barn Coat
Swooning majorly for the vintage-inspired clip hardware.
ba&sh
Meredith Cropped Boxy Jacket
I love the black colorway equally as much, if not more.
I would style this exactly as shown. Perfect for a slightly chilly fall day.
Maje
Short Double-Faced Jacket
Alemais
La Rosa Jacquard Bomber Jacket
Picturing this worn unzipped with a great white tee and a polished burgundy trouser.
Zara
Satin Frog Fastening Jacket
Gap
Gap × Victoria Beckham Relaxed Crop Denim Jacket
I own and wear this jacket at least once a week. The matching jeans pull the whole look together.
Cos
Nylon Mock-Neck Jacket
Rixo
Tashia Embroidered Wool Jacket in Juliette Embroidery Blue
It's just so good, I am at a loss for words. The embroidery—the colors—just perfection.
All The Ways
Corina Jacket
The hair tuck is essential.
Sea NY
Wright Cape Jacket
Petition for all jackets to come with a crocheted capelet.
Simkhai
Jess Pleated Jacket
This silhouette is unlike any I have seen on the market, and I love it for that very reason.
Boden
Salisbury Puff Sleeve Jacket-Multi
The colorful fabric is just so cheery.
Liberowe
Compton Wool Jacket
Liberowe could teach a master class in jacketing.
Maje
Cape-Effect Cardigan
Capes are truly having a moment. Stay ahead of the trend!
Barbour
Marron Leather and Corduroy-Trimmed Waxed-Cotton Jacket
When a piece combines fashion and function this well, you know you've won.
SRG
Kenny Blazer (Was $550)
This jacket buttoned up and worn as a top gets my stamp of approval.
Same Los Angeles
Silk Peplum Bomber Jacket
This peplum detailing is next level, and can also be tucked in to give the jacket an added layer of versatility.
One of the most timeless things you can own is a tweed jacket.
I love the way this is buttoned in the photo. It adds such interest to an outfit.
Alemais
Marcel Denim Jacket
The floral jacquard contrasting trim—I mean c'mon!
Barbour
Icons Tartan Collar Spey Waxed Jacket
A waxed jacket belongs in every fall wardrobe. Bonus points for the tartan collar.
Rohe
Pankou Closure Linen Jacket
Perfection, is the only thing I can say here.
Helsa
Garment Washed Utility Jacket (Was $428)
The canvas fabric adds a structured feel.
Marlies Grace
Jackie Top (Was $525)
The velvet makes this the perfect choice for a crisp night out.
Veronica Beard
Shannon Suede Embellished Jacket
Really like how this one has a bit more of a sweater-y structure and feel.
The drapey satin just works so well with the relaxed shape of this jacket.
Mango
Fine-Knit Buttoned Jacket
Also love this jacket buttoned up and worn in place of a top.