The mercury has started rising but we've not quite hit those heatwave highs yet.
In an act of reverse hibernation, we've shut away our coats - if nothing else but for the sheer principle of it. We may be in the UK where any weather is possible but the annual act is almost ceremonial, removing the potential from possibility. Or so we hope. But this does make deciding what to wear a near-impossible daily struggle.
You want to be cool, calm and collected so as not to risk sweltering on the sweaty Central Line but if you don’t wrap up warm, there’s a chance you’ll freeze to death during post-work al fresco drinks. A puffa is out of the question, but wearing a shirt on its own won’t do either. The best solution? A lightweight jacket.
Perhaps the most underrated layering tool in a man’s wardrobe, a lightweight jacket will make the rest of your clothes weatherproof for the tricky in-between season we find ourselves in twice a year. From your t-shirts to your Oxford shirts, your classic knits to your hoodies, with lightweight outerwear on hand, it suddenly feels like you can wear anything you want without any looming weather-related anxiety.
There are some styles every guy should own - namely a denim jacket and a blazer for more formal occasions. Then, it’s up to you. Whether you’re into the utility workwear aesthetic à la Carhartt – a look that’s favoured by the likes of Austin Butler and Justin Bieber – or would rather lean into the forever-chic preppy trend Gant has perfected, our list below has you covered.
Our top tip? Make sure you opt for classic silhouettes in versatile colours to make sure you’re investing in pieces that don’t have a sell-by date.
Keep scrolling for the best.
Carhartt WIP Detroit Jacket
Just this year, everyone from Austin Butler to Justin Bieber has been spotted wearing one of Carhartt’s classic jackets, making it a must-have grail of the moment. Our favourite is the Detroit, a tried and tested silhouette which has been around since 1954 – and your classic black never fails.
Buy now £180.00, Net-A-Porter
Arket Seersucker Jacket
If convenience is your kryptonite, Arket’s seersucker jacket is an investment you won’t regret. An easy grab-and-go design, the crinkled fabric means it’ll be ready to wear whatever the scenario, whether it’s been scrunched in your tote bag or stuffed in a drawer – and navy will compliment just about everything in your wardrobe.
Buy now £119.00, Arket
Gant Denim Varsity Jacket
Varsity jackets are seemingly on the up – even Celine and Saint Laurent are offering their own takes on the trend this season. When it comes to American prep, though, nobody does it better than Gant. Pair this denim letterman with slacks and a polo to fully embrace the look.
Buy now £450.00, Gant
Levi’s Trucker Jacket
A quality denim jacket is an essential every wardrobe needs – and you can’t go wrong with Levi’s. The Trucker is the denim expert’s original style which was invented back in 1967 and remains a favourite today. If you’re after an iteration with more character, you could browse the pre-loved selection at Beyond Retro or Rokit Vintage instead.
Buy now £80.00, Levi’s
Asket The Overshirt Beige
Scandi minimalism at its finest, Asket’s entire collection is made up of enduring pieces that transcend the concept of trend – this overshirt included. Even better, the label offers full transparency on its supply chain, traceability, environmental footprint and costing structure, so it’s a responsible purchase too.
Buy now £140.00, Asket
Burberry Argyle Jacquard-Knit Zip-Up Track Jacket
When styled correctly, track jackets are the perfect prep-meets-sport summer staple. Whether you pair it with short shorts or just simple black trousers, Burberry’s timeless argyle design will see you through the season and beyond – and includes a touch of the brand’s new signature pattern.
Buy now £1120.00, Mr. Porter
Mango 100% linen jacket with pockets
From the flap pockets to the double zip closure, not to mention the rich brown hue, Mango’s jacket punches way above its £89.99 price point. And what textile says summer better than linen?
Buy now £89.99, Mango
Cos Double-Breasted Wool Blazer Relaxed
If you’ve any smart casual events on the horizon, a boxy blazer is the answer. Crafted from premium wool, Cos’ camel double-breasted silhouette will work with denim and neutrals alike.
Buy now £225.00, Cos
Ami De Coeur Zipped Jacket
One look at Ami’s chic offering and you’ll want to add the entire collection to your outfit rotation. From classic shirts and premium basics to quality denim, the Parisian label’s range is full of must-have pieces you’d wear time and time again. With its simple silhouette and crowd-pleasing colour, this jacket is one of them.
Buy now £685.00, Ami
