It’s cold outside and you want to make a great first impression. Make sure you are fully armed with the knowledge to choose the right Jacket for any event. You are sure to turn heads when you have the perfect jacket for your ensemble.

After you read this post, you will learn everything there is to know about jackets. You will learn the history of this piece of clothing, the different parts of jackets, the types of materials used and the wide variety of styles. You will also learn what style of jackets are trendy now and how to wear them best. Do you want to be an expert? All you have to do is keep reading.

ContentS

• Introduction to jackets
• Types of jackets
• Jackets for women and how to wear them
• Jackets for men and how to wear them
• Jacket Styles depending on the Occasion
• What Jackets are in Style & Outfit Ideas

Introduction to jackets

We all have our favorite jackets. Mine is a soft denim jacket that has been well-worn and deeply loved for many years. In this chapter, you will be introduced to the rich history of jackets. You will learn about the parts of a jacket and common materials.

You will also learn a question most of us have wondered from time to time: What is the difference between a jacket and a coat?

By the time you have finished reading, you will have expert knowledge of jackets. The best part? This info makes jacket shopping easier and much more fun!

What is a jacket?

A jacket is a piece of clothing that is typically worn as outerwear. It has a bodice that reaches to the waist or hips. A jacket usually has long sleeves that extend to the wrist. Most jackets have some type of closure.

Jackets come in a wide variety of styles. Some are worn as part of an ensemble. Others are worn strictly as outerwear. There are also jackets that form a specific function. For example, rain jackets are made with a material that is meant to keep the wearer protected from moisture. Motorcycle jackets are built to be thick and strong so that they might withstand road accidents.

Jackets may be very thin to heavyweight. A jacket might be worn during chilly weather to add a layer of warmth. They can be constructed of various fabrics depending on the style and purpose. A light jacket might be made from silk or rayon, while a heavier jacket could be made from leather.

As with other clothing pieces, the fashion of jackets changes on a regular basis. A color-block jacket may be indicative of the fashion trends of the 1990s, while plaid jackets and boyfriend blazers are more popular in the 2020s. There are also jackets that stand the test of time. A traditional blazer or a classic bomber jacket never goes out of style. Investing in a high-quality, timeless piece is always a good idea.

Some items that are similar to jackets include coats, parkas, shrugs, shawls, dusters, hoodies, and ponchos.

Parts of a jacket

As simple as a jacket seems, most consist of 30 or more basic parts! Knowing the different parts of a jacket is important for people who want to have a great fit, want to sew their own jackets, or simply seek a better understanding of this important piece of outerwear. Are you ready to learn all of the parts of a jacket? Keep reading!

Parts of a Jacket: Terms and Meanings

Sleeve Vent

A small opening at the base of the sleeve.

Sleeve Seam

The seam between the upper sleeve and under sleeve.

Sleeve Cap

The point where the sleeve meets the shoulder.

Sleeve Front

The part of the sleeve that faces the front of the jacket.

Sleeve Hem

The bottom of the sleeve.

Upper Sleeve

The top portion of the sleeve.

Under Sleeve

The lower portion of a sleeve.

Armscye

The opening that goes around the arm at the shoulder.

Shoulder

The seam where the sleeve meets the neck.

Front Upper Collar

The collar at the front of the jacket that is seen from the outside.

Under Collar

The portion of the collar that is inside the jacket.

Collar Roll

The point where the upper and under collars meet.

Collar Lapel

The lower point of a collar.

Collar Notch

A corner on a lower collar.

Collar Gorge

The point where lower and upper collars meet.

Back Upper Collar

The top of the backside of the collar.

Break Line

The opening in the jacket.

Jacket Front

The front portion of the jacket.

Jacket Center Front

The centerline through the front of the jacket.

Side Seam

The meeting place of the side front and the side back.

Jacket Side Front

The section between the jacket front and side seam.

Side Front Seam

The area where the jacket front and jacket side front meet.

Center Back Seam

A seam that runs through the middle of the coat on its backside.

Side Back Seam

The meeting place of the jacket back and jacket side back.

Jacket Side Back

The fabric between the jacket back and the jacket side front.

Jacket Back

The full-back of the jacket.

Back Vent

A small opening in the back of some jackets to allow for easier movement.

Jacket Hem

The bottom of the jacket.

Yoke

A portion of the jacket that covers the shoulders from back to front.

Yoke Front

The front portion of the yoke.

Yoke Back

The back portion of the yoke.

Back Facing

Fabric between the jacket’s lining and the under collar.

Back Lining

The lining inside of the jacket.

Back Lining Pleat

A pleat on the lining that allows free movement.

Pocket Flap

A flap for a pocket, usually on the front of the jacket.

Welt Pocket

The pocket behind or above the pocket flap.

Chest Pocket

A small welt pocket at the chest.

Parts of a Jacket: Basic Details

Sleeves

Sleeves are the portions of the jacket that cover your arms. Most jackets have long sleeves that reach from the shoulder to the wrist. Sleeves may be made from a singular piece of fabric or may be multi-part with an upper and under-sleeve.

Sleeves are usually made from the same material as the remainder of the jacket. However, in some instances, sleeves are made with mesh or other see-through components. They can also serve as decorative pieces with contrasting colors or patterns.

Collar/Lapel

The collar of a jacket is the portion that wraps around the wearer’s neck. Collars may be simple, unobtrusive pieces that go somewhat unnoticed. They may conversely serve as statement pieces that completely alter the look of the jacket.

Some different types of collars include the cloverleaf, asymmetric, peter pan, mandarin, wing, sailor, and shirt collars. Those collars that have upper and lower pieces are generally referred to as lapels.

Lining

The lining is the fabric found on the inside of the jacket. Lining protects and reinforces the jacket’s exterior fabric. It is usually made of a soft, slick material like silk or satin. Jackets with the purpose of providing warmth may be lined in fleece or fur.

Not all jackets have linings. Many have an only partial lining in the back or in the back and sleeves.

Yoke

A yoke is a piece of fabric that covers the shoulders. It is connected to the back and front panels of the jacket. Sometimes, the yoke is put in place to provide structure for jackets that are made of lighter materials. A yoke may also simply serve a decorative purpose.

Not every jacket has a yoke. Choosing a yoked or yokeless jacket is generally a matter of personal taste.

Shell

A jacket shell is the outer portion of a jacket that is used for cold weather conditions. The shell adds an additional layer of warmth. It might also be weather-proofed for conditions that could turn to rain or snow.

Jacket shells are popular with hikers and skiers. Softshells are light and windproof. They allow for flexibility, which makes them great for outdoor sports. Hard shells are usually insulated and very durable, making them perfect for rough conditions.

Hood

A hood is a part of a jacket that can cover the wearer’s head. It may be a permanent part of the jacket, or it could be detachable by a zipper or, more commonly, buttons. Hoods can be worn loosely or might have a drawstring for a more secure fit.

What’s the difference between jacket and coat?

The difference between a jacket and a coat is a touchy subject. Some people swear that a jacket is a lightweight version of a coat. Others say that coats are long while jackets are short. Still, others believe they are synonyms that can be used interchangeably. Who is right?

Many jackets do not have hoods. Those that do have hoods tend to be sports jackets or casual wear.

The answer is: All of these points of view have some merit.

A piece of outerwear that reaches the waist or hips is a jacket. A piece of outerwear that falls below the hips is a coat. However, a very heavy jacket that is meant for winter weather can also be correctly referred to as either a coat or a jacket. Basically, there is some amount of interpretation allowed when it comes to discerning the difference.

For those who like hard and fast rules, length can be the key. Shorter items are jackets, while longer items are coats, regardless of the weight or material. Be aware that there are also some types of coats that can be shorter than usual.

History and origins of the jacket

It is believed that the first jackets were worn during the middle ages. The first jackets were tightly worn, lightweight tunics. The word “jacket” reinforces this history as it comes from the friend jaquet, meaning small tunic.

The earliest jackets were worn by laborers to stay warm while they worked outdoors. They became very popular with the military as well. In the 19th century, jackets became more mainstream. Men started wearing single-breasted jackets that they often wore buttoned to the neck. Meanwhile, women wore short morning coats.

It was 1857 when Italian fashion magazine “Corriere Delle Dame” shared images of jackets worn by both men and women. By the end of that century, few fashionable individuals would be seen without jackets when they attended social events and dinners.

The first denim jacket was introduced by Levi Strauss in 1880. The early version of the jacket, which he called “Levi’s Blouse,” continues to be a popular choice among all social classes today.

Common materials used to make jackets

Jackets can be made from virtually any material. However, there are some materials that are much more popular than others. For instance, artists may make jackets from recycled plastics, though these are unlikely to reach the mainstream. The following materials are those you are most likely to find in your favorite jacket styles.

Jacket Materials: Terms and Meanings

• Wool: A heavy, natural material that is warm and stylish.
• Shearling: A suede-like material that is both soft and warm.
• Leather: A material made from animals that is strong and durable.
• Polyester: A man-made material often used for lightweight jackets.
• Cotton: A fiber made from the cotton plant used to make materials like denim.

Jacket Materials: Basic Details

Wool and Wool Blends

Wool is a material crafted from the fleece of sheep. Wool can be light or heavy, depending on its quality. Dark wools tend to be denser, while lighter wools may have a pastel shade. Likewise, dark wools are often thicker and better for cold weather than lighter wools.

A wool blend is a wool that is mixed with polyester or another man-made fiber. They are softer and easier to work with than 100 percent wool. Sometimes, blended wool is made with a natural fiber like angora or cashmere.

Wool jackets need good lining to keep from being itchy and uncomfortable.

Shearling and Faux Shearling

Shearling is the skin of a sheep or lamb. The soft material is a type of suede leather that provides flexibility and warmth. It is often paired with a wool lining.

Shearling jackets are warm, but they are not weatherproof. This is one of the reasons manufacturers have made faux shearling to mimic the look and feel while allowing wearers to enjoy their jackets in the rain or snow.

Leather and Faux Leather

Leather is the skin of animals, usually cows. The animal is skinned, and the hide is tanned before it is formed into clothing and accessories. Leather is popular for jackets because it is extremely durable and long-lasting. Well-made leather jackets will keep their shape and form for years with little upkeep.

Vegans and thrifty spenders may prefer faux leather. Faux leather looks like leather, is usually waterproof, and is often machine washable. However, it does not have the durability of natural leather.

Polyester, Fleece, and Polyurethane

Polyester is a form of plastic that can be used to make clothing. It is popularly used in jackets, linings, and fillings. Polyester is highly weather-resistant. It is a common material for windbreakers and thick snow jackets. A big bonus with polyester is that it can be manufactured in many colors and patterns. Those who want to make a statement with their jackets might use polyester.

Fleece is a type of polyester that is made to mimic the look and feel of wool. Fleece jackets are very warm and soft.

Polyurethane is similar to polyester in that it is a type of plastic fiber. However, polyurethane has more of a plastic feel, making it somewhat unpleasant to the touch. Most polyurethane jackets are lined with softer polyester materials.

Cotton

Cotton is a soft fiber that is made from spinning cotton plants. The natural fiber is comfortable and warm, though rarely warm enough to protect against very cold weather. Jackets may be made with 100 percent cotton or blended with polyester. Cotton can be dyed into virtually any color or pattern.

Denim is a form of cotton that is manufactured to increase warmth and durability. Denim jackets are among the most popular.

Now you have a great foundation for knowing all there is to know about jackets. Are you ready to learn even more? In the next chapter, your eyes will be opened to the various styles of jackets you can buy and wear.

Types of jackets

Many people refer to any waist-length, long-sleeved outer garment as a jacket. They might not even realize the vastly different types of jackets that are available today! Jackets come in styles that fit everyone’s body type and fashion sense. From the anorak to the windbreaker, jackets offer different types of protection and design.

Once you have read this chapter, you will be able to talk to anyone about any type of jacket. Are you ready to learn? Let’s get started!

Jacket Types

The different types of jackets range from thick and heavy for cold-weather wear to light and breezy for warmer days. Many jackets are simply decorative pieces that add style to any ensemble. 

The following descriptions explain the typical style, purpose, materials, and even a glimpse into the history of each jacket type. You are sure to learn a few things about jackets that you never knew before! 

To get you started, here is a fun fact: The Harrington Jacket got its name from a character on a television soap opera!

Anorak

An anorak is a jacket that is made specifically for cold-weather wear. It was invented by the Inuit, who fashioned the coat from the hide of seal or caribou. It was then lined with fur to trap in warmth. They would then cover the anorak with fish oil to create a water-resistant surface.

Most anoraks that are purchased in stores today are very similar to the original anoraks in style and function. They are usually made from waterproof nylon and stuffed with down or synthetic fiber. The hoods are often lined with faux fur, but real fur is also sometimes used.

What is distinctive about an anorak is that it is a pullover jacket. It may have a drawstring hood and/or a zipper at the chest to allow for an adjustable fit while still being easy to wear and remove.

Blazer

A blazer is a jacket that is often associated with school uniforms or club sports. It is an open-front jacket that may or may not have buttons in the front. When worn sans uniform, blazers have a similar appearance to suit jackets. They are often worn with dress clothing but can be used to liven up casual wear as well.

There are many types of blazers, and they can be made from practically any material. They are regularly seen in cotton and linen. However, blazers can be fashioned from leather or denim on occasion. Many uniform blazers include insignia or badges sewn onto sleeves or the breast pocket.

The term blazer originated in 1825 when the St. John’s College rowing club, nicknamed the red blazers, wore these types of jackets with their uniforms.

Bolero

A bolero jacket, commonly simply referred to as a bolero, is a short jacket that falls above the waist. It usually has a completely open front that does not meet. Boleros often have 3/4 sleeves. They are well-structured and are usually made of stiff material.

The modern bolero is modeled after the chaquetilla seen in the traje de luces of matadors in bullfighting rings. However, the modern bolero is seldom as ornate and is not worn with the matador’s capote de paseo.

Bomber Jacket

A bomber jacket is a waist-length jacket with a ribbed waistband and arm cuffs. It has side and breast pockets and a zippered front. Bomber jackets are usually made from leather. They can also be made from synthetic materials.

The original design was inspired by the jackets that pilots wore during military operations in the early 20th century. Today, bomber jackets are used to keep warm while also adding style to a wardrobe.

Blouson Jacket

A blouson jacket has a style and structure similar to the bomber jacket. It usually has a ribbed waist and cuffs, a zipper closure, and four pockets. The primary difference between the bomber jacket and the blouson is that the blouson has a tight cinching that allows it to balloon around the waist.

A traditional blouson is made with a cotton blend and has a soft lining to add extra warmth. They are usually waterproof. Some blouson jackets have hoods that are attached or detachable.

Biker Jacket

A biker jacket is a tight jacket that is waist length or slightly lower. Wrist-length sleeves are tightened with buckles, snaps, or zippers. The jacket zips up the front and often has a belt for a tighter fit. These jackets are made from tough leather. They often have additional zippers and studs for decoration.

The purpose of a biker jacket is to protect the wearer while riding a motorcycle. It is considered personal protective equipment for bikers who need strong material that will help to guard them in case of an accident.

Boyfriend Jacket (see also: Blazer)

A boyfriend jacket is a traditional blazer that is cut in a manner that fits loosely on a smaller-framed figure. It has a slightly longer-than-normal length and a slightly wider-than-average shoulder. It provides a casual, slouchy look.

Double-Breasted Jacket

A double-breasted jacket has two columns of buttons on its front flaps. The buttons may be functional, but this is rarely the case. In most instances, only one column of buttons is used to close the jacket, while the other column is simply decorative. Double-breasted jackets often have peaked lapels.

Double-breasted jackets were popular through the early 20th century when they were mostly replaced by their single-breasted counterparts. Double-breasted jackets are usually considered very formal and may even be found with tails for wearing during special occasions.

Dinner Jacket / Tuxedo

A dinner jacket, or tuxedo, is a formal jacket worn for evening events and special occasions. The jacket is made from wool, polyester, or rayon with satin lapels. It is almost always worn in black or very dark blue. Occasionally, more vibrant colors are offered.

Dinner jackets are typically worn as part of a three-piece suit that includes a white dress shirt, black bow tie, and black pants. In addition, they may be worn with a waistcoat or cummerbund.

The first dinner jacket was worn by King Edward VII in 1865 when he was still the Prince of Wales. The term tuxedo was adopted from Tuxedo Park in New York, which was the site of a country club where the dinner jacket was commonly worn.

Denim Jacket

A denim jacket, or jean jacket, is a jacket made entirely from soft denim. It usually is waist length with several functional pockets. The jacket buttons up the front and often has adjustable sleeve openings that also button or snap closed.

The first denim jacket was made by Levi Strauss in 1880. The jacket was created as a work jacket due to its tough exterior and long-lasting material. However, jean jackets are now very popular across all classes and age groups. They are seen as timeless fashion choices that can be worn year after year.

Donkey Jacket

A donkey jacket is a jacket that falls well past the waist. It has an unstructured waist area, which creates a boxy look. There is no vent in the back and no lapels. The jacket does have a collar that turns up and buttons to the chin. Donkey jackets may have zip-front closures but usually have buttons. Donkey jackets are usually made from a waterproof wool blend with shoulder panels made from leather or synthetic materials.

The donkey jacket was invented by George Key in 1888 for the construction workers of the Manchester Ship Canal. The name of the jacket comes from donkey engines.

Cashmere Jacket

A cashmere jacket is technically any jacket that is made from cashmere. The fiber is made from cashmere goats, which originated in Kashmir, India. It is known for being extremely soft and delicate, which creates a beautiful jacket that is rich and pliant.

Cashmere blazers are particularly popular among those who want a sophisticated look in their professional wear.

Chore Jacket

A chore jacket is a jacket that was designed specifically for working in outdoor conditions. It is a longer jacket, falling to the hips or lower, which is why some people refer to the item as a chore coat. It has many oversized pockets and large collars that can be turned upward for extra protection.

A chore jacket is made from heavy twill, denim, or canvas. It was invented in France in the late 19th century using a dark blue color. In France, the jacket is known as a “work blue.”

Coach Jacket

“Coach jacket” can be a confusing term to anyone who is new to learning about fashion. In this case, “Coach” doesn’t refer to the designer but to the athletic trainer who leads sports teams.

The coach jacket is a type of windbreaker. It is a lightweight nylon jacket that flows easily and ends past the waist. These jackets are offered in multiple colors and styles. They are often paired with hoodies to add warmth as the standard coach jacket is unlined.

Cropped Jacket

A cropped jacket is any jacket with a hem that ends above the waist. Cropped jackets can reach just below the breastbone or only slightly above a natural waist. Cropped jackets are offered in multiple styles but are almost always thought of as very casual.

A cropped jacket may have full sleeves, short sleeves, or 3/4 sleeves. They are versatile and fun, but they are not meant to provide warmth. These jackets are thought of as fashion accessories rather than true outerwear.

Chef’s Jacket

A chef’s jacket is a piece of outerwear worn by chefs to protect the chef from spills. A chef’s coat is made from thick, white cotton. It is double-breasted with two columns of functional buttons. The buttons are rarely metal but are instead made from cotton.

Chef’s uniforms usually consist of the chef’s jacket, a chef’s hat, and black checkered pants.

Faux-Fur Jacket

A faux-fur jacket is a jacket that is covered in artificial fur. The jacket itself may come in many styles, but the commonality is that the entire outside is covered in fur-like material. These jackets are generally lined in satin. They sometimes have a front closure but are often left open.

Faux-fur is made from synthetic materials rather than the pelts of animals. This makes them less controversial for cruelty to animals but more controversial for planetary stewardship.

Field Jacket

A field jacket is a military-style jacket that was originally created for soldiers after World War I. The modern field jacket most closely resembles those that were worn during the Vietnam War as it was specifically designed for use in a tropical climate. It is lightweight and waterproof with plenty of pockets.

Field jackets are often made from a cotton blend that is light, flexible, and waterproof. Some field jackets are made from denim, though this is less common.

Fleece Jacket

A fleece jacket is a jacket made to provide warmth during cold weather. It is usually used on chilly days that are neither rainy nor snowy as fleece is not waterproof. A fleece jacket is often worn under an unlined jacket or coat.

Fleeces jackets are very lightweight and generally low cost. They may zip up the front or be pullovers with zippers or ties at the chest.

Fleece jackets were first designed in 1979 by Malden Mills and Patagonia.

Harrington Jacket

The Harrington jacket is a waist-length jacket that is lightweight, flexible, and roomy. It was originally designed by Baracuta in the 1930s, who referred to the coat as a G9. It was made for golfers who needed jackets to combat outdoor elements but also didn’t want to impede their swing. The G9 is still in production today.

The Harrington jacket has a ribbed waist and sleeve openings, a zippered front, and two side pockets. The traditional G9 uses Fraser tartan lining.

The jacket was first popularized in the United States when Elvis Presley wore a version of it in the movie “King Creole.” However, the name “Harrington” was adopted for the jacket because it was regularly worn by Ryan O’Neal’s character Rodney Harrington in the television soap opera “Peyton Place.”

Hooded Jacket

A hooded jacket is a jacket that has a hood. In most instances, the hood is sewn into the jacket. There are times in which the hood is attached with snaps, buttons, or even a zipper. This allows wearers to remove the hood when it is not needed.

A specific form of the hooded jacket is a sweatshirt-style jacket called a hoodie. A hoodie may be worn as a pullover shirt or will have a zip-front. Hoodies usually have one or two large pockets.

Linen Jacket (see also: Blazer, Suit Jacket)

A linen jacket is a jacket made from the fibers of the flax plant. Linen is a lightweight fabric that is also extremely durable. Linen is particularly popular in hot summer months when professional-looking clothing is required, but heavier cotton is less favored.

Most linen jackets are blazers or suit jackets. They are often worn as part of professional or semi-formal suits.

Military Jacket (see also: Bomber Jacket, Field Jacket)

“Military jacket” is a generic term that refers to any jacket that is regularly worn by members of the armed services. Some military jackets include those that are blazer-style, double-breasted jackets, bush or safari jackets, field jackets, and bomber jackets.

Individuals can purchase jackets that are made to resemble those worn in or inspired by the military. They can also purchase authentic military jackets from military surplus stores.

Leather Jacket (see also: Biker Jacket)

A leather jacket is any jacket made from leather. They may be constructed from tanned leather or suede. In most instances, the term “leather jacket” refers to a motorcycle or biker jacket.

Parka

A parka is a heavy jacket that is worn in cold weather. The thick jacket is filled with down or synthetic fiber. It has a hood that is attached to the jacket. Either the entire jacket or just the hood is lined with fur. Parkas are popular with people who spend time outside in extreme winter weather.

There are those who confuse the parka with the anorak. The big difference between the two is that the parka opens in the front and has a zip or button closure. The anorak is a pull-over jacket.

Puffer Jacket / Quilted Jacket

A puffer jacket is a quilted jacket that is worn in cold weather. It is typically made from synthetic materials like nylon and stuffed with down. The jacket is quilted, which creates air pockets that allow more heat to be absorbed into the jacket. Puffer jackets usually have hoods, side pockets, and zipper closures.

The history of the puffer jacket dates to 1936 when Eddie Bauer crafted a jacket filled with down that could be worn on his outdoor excursions.

Peplum Jacket

The peplum jacket gets its name from the short overskirt attached to the jacket’s waist. This overskirt is known as a peplum. It is a flared or pleated skirt that can be very short or several inches long.

The peplum jacket is typically highly structured to make the angles stand out. The waist and shoulders are usually accentuated with clear points, though there are always exceptions to this rule.

Rain Jacket

A rain jacket is a water-resistant jacket to protect the wearer from rain. They are made from synthetic materials, such as coated nylons, that can withstand water while also allowing breathability.

The first rain jackets are thought to have existed in 1200 AD when inhabitants of the Amazon rainforest used rubber tree sap, or latex, to allow their clothing to last longer in wet conditions.

Reversible Jacket

A reversible jacket is a jacket that can be worn in at least two ways. A reversible jacket is usually crafted so that wearers can turn the jacket inside out to show a different color or even different fabric or style when worn.

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