In celebration of a new season that’s nearly upon us, here’s a look at some of the hottest jackets for Fall 2011. Plus, ideas on how you can incorporate them into your late summer ensembles.
Varsity Jackets
Back to school has a whole new meaning now that varsity coats have returned to the forefront, bringing with them memories of athletic life from bygone glory days. However, thanks to designers like Rag & Bone and Moschino, the varsity jacket no longer evokes running laps or trudging to class, but simply continues the year’s mix-and-match trend; working alongside ankle length skirts, dark colours and dramatic fabrics (like velvet), to prove that dressing for a specific subculture is far behind us.
The Cape
Forget the gothic imagery that comes to mind upon hearing one of the industry’s most controversial trends “ especially since the likes of Chanel paired a tweed cape with skinny black jeans, Doc Marten’s-inspired boots and clean-looking leather gloves this fall. Thus, whether paired with androgynous pieces for a day-to-day look or with a structured A-line dress in the spirit of Betty Draper, the cape is no longer the key piece in a witch’s wardrobe, but a refreshing break from the standard jacket designs that seem to dictate fall.
Bombers
Not that anyone should be surprised, but bomber jackets have once again staked their claim on our coldest seasons, offering the traditional leather style in addition to alternative takes on the seasonal favourite. While the classic aviator look still reigns supreme, stores like Urban Outfitters and H&M showcase cotton styles in retro colours (like neon), to keep things casual should you want to pair a bomber with jeans, trainers and even a zip-up sweatshirt.
Waistcoats
We told you to be prepared for total 60s fanfare come fall 2011, and in the spirit of Mad Men, An Education and your grandparents’ photo albums, waistcoats and trenches have come to help dictate the seasonal landscape. Paired with pencil skirts, dresses or even pleated trousers, the ladylike look of years gone by is perfect for those days spent channeling Joan Holloway “ and harmoniously work along heels, oxfords or even ankle boots for that homage to the 20th century’s most romanticized era.
