Wardrobe Essential: 12 Different Types of Jackets

You don’t need to own dozens of jackets to flare up your design, if you venture off into the market with the right mindset and thought process, then you can pull off a multitude of aesthetics even without a wide range of selection in your wardrobe.

Jackets are a symbol of balance in the styling world. They protect you not just from harsher weather but also serve as a fashion icon. Currently, there are different types of jackets available in the market, and knowing these varieties can equip you with the knowledge to spend your bucks exactly where they should!

The Scope of this blog is to cover the following:

• Multiple Jacket Styles
• How do you pair up your Jackets?
• Which Jacket is best?

What Constitutes a Great Jacket?

Various jackets are designed to serve different niches of people. Some jackets are meant to be used functionally, while others are strictly crafted for fashion siesta. However, there are some quality standards every kind of Jacket should adhere to.

⇒ Outer Layer:

The most exposed part of any jacket, and rightfully, it should be made with sturdier materials so it can offer protection against weather and environmental hazards. Materials range from synthetic options to natural cotton.

⇒Inner Lining:

The inner fabric underneath the outer layer should be made using lightweight and hypoallergenic materials for added comfort.

⇒Filling:

Harsher winter jacket types should have the right amount of insulated fibres in between 2 layers. Consistent volume is the key.

⇒Pockets:

No matter which jacket style, it should always come with essential pockets, either zippered or seam patches, to carry small necessities such as keys, wallet and phone.

Know The Difference: Jackets Vs Coats

Jackets are often confused with coats, and it is easy to understand why that happens. See, what is the primary purpose of a jacket? It is to keep you snug and warm now, and what do coats do? Provide warmth in colder environments. 

If we are talking about serviceability, then yes, both garment types are incredibly similar, but when the debate shifts to fashion, only then actual differences are unveiled. 

Jackets are lightweight, shorter, outer-layer garments meant to be worn in both cool and warmer weather for a casual look. Coats, on the other hand, extend below the hips and are crafted using heavier materials for that added insulation.

Go through this quick table for clear visualization:

Jackets	Coats
Length & Weight Waist to hip-length & Lighter weight.	Length & Weight Usually knee-length or longer & Heavier weight.
Warmth & Fit Offers moderate warmth with snug fit.	Warmth & Fit Designed for maximum warmth and fitting can be loose or tailored.
Fabric & Best For? Nylon, polyester, denim, leather for sporty casual look and fashion-forwarding chic.	Fabric & Best For? Wool, heavy cotton, cashmere for that timeless formal look.

Popular Jacket Types You Should Know About!

The right jacket type can make you feel protected and confident, and similarly, wrong choices can make you look like a sore thumb in a crowd.

This is why knowing different types of jackets is so important. You might think jackets are just general overlaying garments, but in reality, different jacket designs lead to varied possibilities of styles ranging from ones best fitted for casual gatherings to ones reserved for specific events like weddings and formal meetings.

Below listed are different jacket names and styles!

• Puffer Jacket:

Also known as quilted jackets. These jackets are uniquely designed with insulative puffed sections between stitching. Typically, these filling materials are either duck feathers or synthetic fibres like polyester. Puffer jackets, due to this construction, are ideal for colder weather and are considered a fashionable option among the winter jacket types.

Quick Note: Puffer jackets are incredibly versatile, so much so that they can be worn as coats as well. You need to find the right underlayered t-shirt and viola. Your entire chic has been customized.

• Varsity Jacket:

We can all agree that at some point in our lives, we have owned this Jacket, maybe not right now, but back when we were in college. Varsity jackets are usually linked to athletic and academic achievements. 

Varsity jackets, also known as letterman jackets, are one of the most customized overlaying garments out there. They can be embellished with chenille patches, embroidery and printed letters to represent a school or team. 

These jackets can be worn in both summer and winter, depending on the type of material used.

• Cotton body with fleece & denim sleeves for summer.
• Wool body with leather sleeves for winters.

• Softshell Jacket:

There are not many balanced jackets out there, and if you are someone who values both weather protection and flexibility, then softshell jackets might be what you need. 

These jackets are commonly made using tightly woven fabrics like polyester and nylon, along with brushed fleece inner lining for added warmth. Although these jackets are not super weather resistant with DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coatings, they become good enough to withstand light thunderstorms. Softshell jackets are best used for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling and skiing.

• Denim Jacket:

Since the early 90s, denim has been in fashion and still refuses to go out of trend. Denim jackets are perfect for that classic look, and the fun thing about denim is its extended longevity, meaning you can wear this jacket on a daily basis, and even then, you wouldn’t notice anything different about it.

These jackets are so essential that you would only truly appreciate their value once you own a high-quality denim jacket.

Related Read: The Best Advice You Can Hear About Diverse Types of Denim

• Classic Leather Jackets:

The most popular type of Jacket out there, leather, as you know, is extremely tough and, with proper care, can survive for decades. Premium leather jackets are an investment but, over the years, conform to your body shape perfectly. In fact, the fitting becomes so personalized that you may find it hard to find any other jacket over this.

• It is one of those pieces which are must-haves for both men and women.

• Mainstream Bomber Jackets:

Bomber jackets were originally designed to serve pilots in the cockpit, but due to such unique design of ribbed collars and cuffs, it is now one of the soundest options among lightweight jacket types.

If you never had a bomber jacket in your closet, then you might think, what is so special about it? Well, with the use of fabrics like nylon and polyester, these jackets withstand harsh environments like it’s nothing. They are warm and look as stylish as the current trend goes.

More Bomber Jackets:

• Leather Bomber Jackets
• Soft Suede Bombers for that smart-casual look.
• Cotton bombers for everyday casual wear.

• Weatherproof Rain Jackets:

A functional outerwear for those who enjoy outdoor activities like camping and hiking on a regular basis. Rain jackets are mostly made with synthetic materials like nylon and polyester, which are most often, if not always, treated with DWR finishes for extra protection.

• Athletic Jackets:

Performance-centered jackets are always made using highly functional fabrics like poly-spandex and nylon spandex. 

You might ask why. Well, athletic jackets are rigorously used and stretched during exercise and sports. To provide a comfortable and reliable wearing experience, these fabrics are used. They are exceptionally moisture-wicking, breathable and elastic. Some athletic jackets are also incorporated with mesh panels and reflective elements for ventilation and enhanced visibility in competitions.

• These jackets can also be worn as casualwear because of their increased comfort and ease of styling.

• Wool Jackets:

If you have been looking for the warmest type of Jacket for women, then consider buying a wool jacket. Even though they are also worn by many men, the numbers aren’t even close when compared to women. These jackets come in various styles and are considered “best” for colder climates owing to their sweet balance of comfort and style.

Setback of Wool Jacket:

However, it can get expensive if you go along those premium versions, but it is worth it, just like any leather jacket.

• Windbreakers:

Windbreakers are yet another lightweight jacket option. This style is primarily designed to shield the wearer from wind and light environmental elements. 

One interesting thing about windbreakers is that although they are made with tightly woven nylon and polyester, they often come with strategically placed mesh linings for much-needed breathability during active outdoor pursuits like running and cycling.

Fun Fact: Windbreakers, due to the use of lightweight and thin fabric, can be stored even in your pockets! This makes it an ideal no-bulk layer to stash in a backpack for unexpected gusts and rain drizzles.

• Harrington Jackets:

Harrington gets as classy as it can. These are classic mid-century jackets usually manufactured with either cotton or poly cotton blended outer shells. While the inner lining is made using plaid fabric. Harrington jackets come in waist-length with a stand-up collar and two buttons alongside ribbed cuffs and hem for that perfect smart-casual look.

Their clean and timeless design makes it suitable for everyday wear, no matter the weather!

• Tuxedo Jacket:

Tuxedos are quintessential types of jackets for men and are exclusively worn for highly formal meetings. These jackets are mostly made with worsted wool for the main body, and the lapels are either satin or grosgrain. Tuxedos are perhaps the only Jacket in this list that can not be dressed casually or semi-formal. Its rigid form factor looks good only with tailored trousers.

Modern tuxedo kinds:

• Velvet tuxedos for that distinct look.
• Silk and mohair tuxedos enhance the sheen and drape of the dress.

Are tuxedos really a type of jacket?

Yes and No! A tuxedo is a complete formal suit. However, the coat component is often referred to as a tuxedo jacket.

Styling Guide: Level Up Your Fashion

I’m sure you have noticed that every kinds of jackets has some level of style flexibility, but if you really want your fit to stand out, then keep these below-mentioned points in mind.

• For everyday outfits, pair up puffer jackets with jeans and printed hoodies. On the other hand, wear softshell jackets over your gym wear for that sporty look we all love.
• Denim and leather jackets go exceptionally well with bold tees and washed jeans to look effortlessly cool.
• Bomber and Harrington’s jackets are perfect for classic, edgy aesthetics only if paired correctly. Always pair up these jackets with a nice pair of chinos and slim-fit jeans, along with sneakers.
• Layer wool jackets over sweaters and flannels for that winter cozy look. However, for professional settings like offices, wear your wool jacket over dress pants and shirts.
• Always wear your tuxedo jacket with matching tailored trousers, a white dress shirt and leather loafers for a definitive elegant appearance

Ending Note: Which Jacket Should You Get?

Deciding which Jacket to get depends on several factors, but none are greater than the personal preferences and the look you are aiming for. There are no clothes specifically for any gender these days since fashion is becoming increasingly fluid day by day. 

However, based on the market analysis, Varsity and Harrington jackets are most often worn by men and experimenting around with their varieties can hook you up with a nice wardrobe that is ready for every occasion and for all the ladies out there reading this blog, consider levelling up your fashion with wool and denim jackets.

Lastly, never shy away from trying out different things in life, even if it’s about different jacket styles.

For those readers who are thinking about starting their own business. 

Check out this Blog: Unleash Your Vision: How to Start a Private Label Clothing Brand 

Frequently Asked Questions

1) What are some of the best materials for jackets?

It marginally depends on your use case. Consider wool and fleece for warmth. On the other hand, opt for nylon and polyester for jackets that have to be durable.

2) Is there a jacket that goes well with every occasion?

Not for every occasion, but a denim jacket is the one with the most versatility as it can be paired up for both casual-smart settings and even semi-professional meetups. Puffer jackets are also quite versatile for daily use.

3) How to clean jackets?

• Most jackets are non-machine washable, keeping that in mind. Always use a damp cloth along with mild detergent for spot cleaning. If stains are persistent, then let them submerge in a basin with cold water. 
• Always avoid fabric softeners and bleach, as they can ruin your jackets in seconds.