I've Been a Stylist for Years—These 5 Autumn Jackets Always Look Good

They say that within the first 7 seconds of meeting someone your first impressions are drawn. So, for at least 6 months of the year (and that is a modest calculation), what outerwear you choose to wear is arguably one of the first things someone will see on you, making what jacket you choose a pretty important investment don’t you think?

However, at this time of year, purchasing a heavy coat feels too soon, which is why I'm turning my attention to more lightweight and transeasonal jackets that will work hard in my wardrobe over the next few months. Let’s face it, living in the UK means a jacket is needed for the majority of the time no matter which season we're in.

If I’m making a purchase at this time of year, I do so with the upcoming season in mind; I like to make sure the piece in question is something that I will continue to wear as the year progresses. With that in mind, I've rounded up some of the best jackets available in stores right now, and whittled it down to five key styles that'll work hard for you this 

1. Leather

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(Image credit: @louisahatt)

Style Notes: When it comes to leather jackets, it isn't just the biker that's getting airtime this season. Instead, sleek fuss-free styles are coming through from the likes of COS, Whistles and Acne Studios. 

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2. Tweed 

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(Image credit: @juliesfi)

Style Notes: Arguably one of the It jackets of the season, a tweet style will elevate even the simplest of looks. A forever favourite for stylish Parisians like Julie, wear in the French-girl way as a co-ord or add it over a T-shirt with jeans and you'll still feel put together. 

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3. Blazer

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(Image credit: @taniceelizabeth)

Style Notes: Tanice is wearing that Frankie Shop blazer, that, let us tell you, isn't going anywhere for yet another season. To wear on repeat with absolutely any outfit—from jeans and a vest to a dress—you'll get so much wear out of an oversized blazer.

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4. Trench 

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(Image credit: @modestmira_)

Style Notes: There's no doubt about it, the trench is one of the most iconic items of all times. Make like Mira and keep the length longline, the fit oversized and the details simple to make sure you'll wear it on heavy rotation for years to come. 

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5. Denim 

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Style Notes: Denim is one trend you can't avoid this year. From the high street to the catwalk, you'll see it on everything from corsets to skirts, and bags to knee-high boots. If you're looking to buy into a piece that will have longevity in your wardrobe, a denim jacket is the answer. Whether it's a classic slouchy style, a bomber or a trench, anything goes as long as it's denim. 

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Next Up: The 9 New-In Pieces I'm Adding to My Wish List This Week

Freelance Fashion Editor

Harriet Davey is a freelance fashion editor who has been part of Who What Wear's extended team since 2017. She previously worked in print at Look magazine and has since worked across print, digital and social for many other titles, including British Vogue, Stylist, Grazia, Refinery29 and Marie Claire. Also a stylist, Harriet has had the pleasure of producing cover shoots and editorials along with commercial shoots for brands including Boux Avenue, Watches of Switzerland, Benefit Cosmetics and Revolution. To add to this, Harriet also works in live TV styling for ITV’s This Morning. Back to Who What Wear. With hundreds of published stories on site, Harriet knows what the WWW reader wants. Keeping up to date with the latest It buys and runway trends, she can guarantee to keep you one step ahead of the most stylish people. When not writing or styling, Harriet loves to go shopping (yes, more fashion). If she’s not in a local Hackney bar or restaurant, you can find her forever searching for her next holiday destination.