Back to School Shopping: The 4 Hottest Jackets for Fall ’09
Over the past few weeks, we’ve been going over all the hot trends for fall as part of CF’s back to school shopping list. While tops and jeans are important, a great jacket is perhaps the most essential fall piece every girl needs in her wardrobe.
Not only do jackets keep us warm on cool fall days, but they’re also important for wardrobe versatility and layering. Feeling like you wear the same thing every day? One new jacket can add tons of new looks to your rotation. Jackets are also the perfect way to cover up any perceived body “problem areas” – a well-cut blazer, for example, can cinch you in at the waist, making you look thinner and perfectly proportioned.
Here’s a list of the 4 hottest trends this season when it comes to jackets. Which one is your favorite?
1. The Denim Jacket
Product Information (from left): Light Vintage Destroyed Jacket – American Eagle, Blue Acid Wash Biker Jacket – Miss Selfridge, Dark Tinted Denim Jacket – American Eagle
Classic, classic, classic. The denim jacket has always been a fall staple, but this season, it’s actually trendy too (whether that’s a good thing is debatable). Either way, stores everywhere are carrying different incarnations of the denim jacket, in every possible shade from acid wash to ultra-dark.
This season, almost any type of denim jacket goes, so long as you keep it simple. While super-studded and shredded varieties are popping up in stores, a standard denim jacket is the smartest investment for a girl on a budget. It will certainly last you more than one season.
So what do you wear a denim jacket with? Almost everything.
Right now I love them layered over pretty floral dresses for a little bit of a ’90′s throwback, or worn with black skinny pants and a loose tee for a perfect effortlessly casual outfit. But the possibilities are endless!
2. The Motorcycle Jacket
Product Information (from left): Brown Faux Leather Motorcycle Jacket – Forever 21, Full Tilt Coltrane Women’s Jacket – Tilly’s, Black Faux Leather Motorcycle Jacket – Forever 21
Yup, for yet another season the motorcycle jacket trend is still going strong.
Motorcycle jackets were HOT last year, so if you bought one for fall ’08, keep it around! It’s still very wearable in ’09.
I’m a fan of faux leather jackets not only because they aren’t made from animals, but also because they’re less expensive than real leather options. Of course, if you do like real leather, there are also affordable vintage pieces out there. Because they’re used, they’ll likely have that perfectly soft, broken-in feel so many high-end leather goods try to emulate. Best of both worlds if you ask me!
3. The Embellished Military Jacket
Product Information (from left): BB Dakota Battalion Jacket – chickdowntown.com, Vero Moda Military Jacket – oli.co.uk, Military Button Front Jacket – Arden B.
The embellished military jacket is a little bit more flashy & trendy than the denim and motorcycle jackets, but it’s so much fun that it’s a trend worth trying.
This season’s military jacket is PERFECT for a night out – the extra embellishment means you can keep your top simple and still stand out. Another quick tip for wearing this jacket: you’re definitely going to make a statement when you wear one of these, so confidence is key.
4. The Boyfriend Blazer
Product Information (from left): Boyfriend Blazer – Charlotte Russe, Black Boyfriend Jacket – Dorothy Perkins, Slouchy Boyfriend Blazer – TopShop
Perhaps the most important jacket every girl should own this season, the boyfriend blazer is incredibly versatile: it works well layered over dresses, pretty tanks and shorts, or dressy tops and skinny jeans. It adds an instant coolness to any look and is SO easy for anyone to pull off.
The important thing to look for when shopping for a boyfriend jacket is FIT. If the jacket is too large, you’ll swim in it, and if it’s too tight, it’ll be uncomfortable and unflattering. Be willing to spend a little more for a fit that’s just right – you’ll have this piece for a while so you want it to be perfect.
If you have long arms or are otherwise tough to fit, I recommend finding a jacket that’s a little too large and having a tailor take it in. It’s worth the extra money to get a jacket that’s perfect for you.
What do you think?
So now that you know what jackets to look for this fall, I want to know: which jacket is your favorite? Do you own any of the four types of jackets, or are you planning to buy any this fall? Also, how would you wear this season’s jackets?
Leave your thoughts in a comment!
Posted on on August 12, 2009 / Filed Under: Shopping / Tags: Back to School Shopping, Blazers, Denim, Fall 2009, Jackets, Shopping, Trends
Like this post?
Comment Rules: CF is a positive place and our comments section is no different. Constructive criticism is fine, but if you're rude, we'll delete your comment. Please use your PERSONAL name or initials and not your business name and do not put your website in the comment text, as both come off like spam. For more info, see our 
Jessi
I love this article! i’ve been putting off buying jackets while school shopping to see wats hot right now
ive been wanting a motorcycle jacket for a while now so ill def. get it and i love the boy friend blazer! that will also be on my shopping list!!
i cant wait for the article on shoes!
Lady M
Those leather jackets are really cute. I have a cropped one that I wore mostly during the spring, but I haven’t got a long sleeve one yet. I’m going to college in Seattle, and I’ve found that hooded jackets work better for me, since there’s so much rain.
And the MJ jackets, as I call them, are hot!
Hannah from Hannah in Tennessee
i love those boyfriend blazers! can’t wait to try it!
Julie
i’m not a big fan of denim jackets, never have been.
i love the motorcycle jacket and the boyfriend blazer, i’ve been on the hunt for a cute blazer like those above for a while and this article has me all the more motivated!
Kayla Lee
I can’t help but feel that the Military jacket has been popularized by the passing of Michael Jackson, may he rest in peace.
Connie
Definitely loving the bf blazer and motorcycle jacket, I’ve already got both and I’m still looking for more!
Avigayl
I’m not really in love with denim jackets; I bought a basic one from the Gap that I have never worn out of the cap. I have a great black vintage leather jacket that I love, however, and I really want a boyfriend blazer. Would look great with a slouchy tee and skinnies. Military jacket is cool too, although I’m not sure what I’d wear under it, so I don’t know if I’ll buy one.
Brooke
Please, please make a note that denim jackets can’t be worn with everything!! A denim jacket should not be worn with jeans! Denim suits are not cute. I love them the way you described them though…dresses look so great with denim jackets.
I love my leather jacket that I just bought (on eBay). It’s so beautiful and was initially really expensive and I got it cheap (in perfect condition!) so I’m thrilled. :) Love all the coats featured here!
Just remember the whole no denim/denim thing. :)
Caitlyn
I can’t figure out how to wear a jean jacket without feeling like an awkward clueless middle schooler. I still have one from last time they were in style and it’s really cute.
I’ve had this cute military style jacket for a while but with my narrow shoulders it looks strange.
Maybe I should try out the 3rd motorcycle jacket or a blazer. It would be great if you could do some fall outfits using the jackets, like with the fall tops!
Caitlyn
And I agree with Brooke. That’s why I have such a hard time with wearing the jean jacket. Wearing it without jeans. And most of my dresses have blues in them so it just seems like too much.
Sammy
I completely agree with you on the dresses, but Brooke is totally right – double denim is always a no/no, no matter what the August issue of Seventeen said. I wish you would do example outfit layouts for us to see as well, but great post!
Jess
I love love love Motorcycle Jackets and the Military Jackets.
Cara
I love the boyfriend jacket if it’s not too baggy, and actually I love the denim biker-style jacket, even though I usually hate either kind of jacket. The biker style adds edge to denim, while denim takes the harshness out of studs-and-leather biker chic. I want this jacket, if only just to play with something slightly out-of-the-ordinary!
Ashley
SPOT ON. Love everything. Denim jacket is not my style, but everything very much is! I have got to get a new bf blazer. Speaking of which, I need to go shopping for all new jackets!
Rose
Love motorcycle jackets!
Where could I buy a good boyfriend blazer?
camsjarrin
What is one example of cute outfit using the boy friend blazer, i have one and i can’t never create an outfit with it.. its black btw
amymime
My favorite is the motorcycle jacket. I have a bunch of ruffley, girly tops that I can never match a jacet too, but I think a motorcycle jacket with those types of tops make the whole look more put together and less like a wannabe princess. and @camsjarrin, I’ve seen a lot of celebrities wear their blazers with dresses. I think they look best with bold colorful prints.
Tiffany
I’m OBSESSED with the boyfriend blazer, it lends the perfect touch of elegance and whimsicality to every outfit. I like the fit by Necessary Objects — clean, slouchy, but still tailored.
Surprisingly, I think gray may be more versatile than black. A big black blazer will look too “much” on some people, especially since black is already a huge color this season — whereas gray is less intense but still has that sleek look.
Luinae
The boyfriend blazer in my fave!! It’s so classic and well cut and really chic, which I adore. I love the touch of elegance it brings to an outfit.
I’m not to fond of the denim jacket. Whenever I wear it, it just looks really sloppy and I don’t like it.
The mototcycle jacket is another nice one. Tough but fun, adds cool sophistication to every single outfit. Those are my fave 2, and I’ll probally try to purchase them.
Very helpful post, thank you.
Woman in plus size trousers
I have a question about the embellished military jacket on the left. Isn’t that similar to the ones Michael Jackson used to wear at the Grammy Awards in the 80s?
Leia
My sequin jacket is going to be my favorite outerwear this autumn!
Sarah
I am loving all of these trends, the denim and motorcycle jacket ones the best though. I will be trying them all hopefully. I just bought a denim jacket – next up is the motorcycle one :)
Ally
I just ordered a Military jacket last week online, and I’m dying to get it in! I think my next goal is to find a motorcycle jacket that I’m absolutely in love with.
Mici
I love the motorcycle jackets and the denim jackets, but I’m not sure I can pull it off…maybe I’ll just stick to my coral-coloured trenchcoat from HM and my black jacket from Zara…how about that?
Maria
i love the boyfriend jacket! they look easy to pull off. definitely going to buy one if my budget permits me… but from all the jackets you feature here, i’m still in love with the classic jacket – look a lot like the boyfriend’s jacket but it defines the waist. i own one (black, suede) and though it was my mom (she bought it around seven years ago), it still goes perfect with everything! i think the key for buying a jacket is it must goes right with almost everything. :)
rachelle
boyfriend blazerssss! i love them! i got one from charlotte russe that looks more similar to the second option and i LOVE it. they really can go with any type of outfit! btw, old navy has basic demin jackets at a really good price.
neira
ahh i love all of these!! especially the military and motorcycle..definite must haves for fall!
Hannah
I love the motorcycle jacket trend. I just got one from Forever 21 that fits perfect, and I can’t wait until it gets cooler here so I can wear it!
I also really like the boyfriend blazer trend. I’ll definitely have to get one of those. But I have a question about it… Do these “boyfriend blazers” have shoulder pads in them?
Deanne
I love my denim jacket; they will NEVER go out of style!:D
Jennifer
I’m actually surprised at the denim jacket, they actually look stylish this year. I love all the jackets you’ve shown here, but my favourite has to be the boyfriend blazer. I love blazers, and they are so wearable, comfortable, and can easily dress up a casual outfit.
bubbles
I am obsessed with the boyfriend blazer. I still haven’t bought mine, but I’ve been dying to. And J.Crew just came out with these ‘school boy’ blazers which are also soooo cute!
Kasumi
I love the boyfriend blazer! One trick I found is that a bit of tailoring makes them fit so much better, especially for my petite frame. I have a black Mexx one that I am dying to wear in the fall.
Katie
I love boyfriend blazers, but i’m always afraid i’ll look too stodgy. i know they look totally young and hipsterish on a lot of people, but wouldn’t you feel a little too business casual wearing a blazer to class?
Mani
Amazing article!! You hit the nail on the head with this one, girl. I own 2 of the 4. I would own a boyfriend blazer, but they swallow me whole. My frame is just too small for that. I LOOOVE my motorcycle jacket though, I plan to sport it all the time in the winter (it’s so toasty yet kickass!) My denim jacket is collecting dust…it must be like 5 years old :P it’s definitely a trend worth looking into for all interested in fashion, but I don’t think I’m the hugest fan of it.
I WANT A MILITARY JACKET SO BADLY. SO, SO BADLY. I cannot find one that I like though that’s not at least 1000 dollars :P so that’s just a sad story for me, pretty much. I’m really picky when it comes to clothes.
Anyhow, if you ladies are looking for some good motorcycle jackets, bebe.com has a few nice ones worth checking out!! Mine is actually from bebe and it’s lovely. Here are a few all under 98 dollars:
http://www.bebe.com/98-Bomber-Jackets-WHATS-HOT-apparel-Products/b/2061239011?ie=UTF8&pf_rd_r=1PX1A1CZ5CP6HRG1NW7S&store=core&pf_rd_p=454735401&pf_rd_i=15382841&pf_rd_s=left-1&pf_rd_m=A2FMOXN01TSNYY&pf_rd_t=101
Renee
cute article :)
I love jackets SO MUCH they re all fabulous especially the denim one and the boyfriend blazer ! They give u the ‘I just threw it on’ look they’re greatt !!
Jane
Jackets is one of the reason’s why I love the autumn and winter because of the cute Jackets that come out i keep my demin jackets for the summer and i like the other types of jackets for the winter. But my faveorite jacket is a velvet green Jacket that my mom made for me for my 18th birthday.
Elaine @ clothed much
YES! I got three out of four down pat…. Now for that military jacket… and more blazers wouldn’t be bad.. :)
Jessi
I just got the brown leather jacket from Forever 21 and love it! It was only $40!!!!
Bubbles
Hey Jessi:
$40?! What kinda brown is it?? That’s definitely in my price range! And I really want a dark almond-y or a golden-y brown, like the top half of a duracell battery.
Jessi
its the same one Zephyr has mentioned in this article (the first one in the motorcycle pictures)
its a really pretty rich brown in person and it is so comfortable! not stiff at all!
Annaida
I love biker jacket.
Holly
WOo hoo I Love all of these!!!!! Especially the embellished military ones… they are SO MICHAEL JACKSON!!!!!!! (God bless him.) I love it.
meghan
Are the “prep-school” type blazers still in? I really like them and my personal style is more like a blair waldorf kind and I know that works well in that style. They were big last season..i think i’ll get one anyway since I try to follow a more classic trend but it will look good right? thanks
SupaWaifu
I caught a great sale on a military-esque jacket from Ann Taylor this past winter and it’s great to hear the trend is going to come back this fall
Katie
I’m trying to find a fall jacket still, I’ve been very price picky, but I have a problem with having a long torso, big thighs and large arms (athletic build/play tennis). I only find jackets that are really short, ex. denim, leather. Where can I find some that are longer?