Products: Printed, Mustard, Striped

In the past, I've written love letters to fit-and-flare dresses and boyfriend jeans. Now, just in time for fall, I think my other favorite wardrobe staple deserves a little love. So I dedicate this post to the statement jacket.

I consider a statement jacket to be any jacket with color, pattern, or embellishment. I have floral jackets, leopard print jackets, camo, pastel tweed, foulard, you name it. They can turn any outfit into a serious fashion statement, and I can't get enough. 

Fit is especially important in jackets, and they really only work if they're a great fit (you've got a little more leeway if it's a boyfriend cut or if you plan on always wearing it open). A great fitting jacket will be comfortable in the arms but not loose, hit at the right spot on your wrist, and will button comfortably around your torso without gaping.  

Ways to Wear a Statement Jacket

My favorite ways to wear my statement jackets are over a dress or with boyfriend jeans.  Mixing prints can be amazing, and so can color blocking.  But I also like to let the jacket shine over a neutral backdrop (white tee and dark jeans, all white, etc.). 

 Toss one over a jumpsuit for a night out, or pair with your fave jean shorts in transitional weather.  Don't shy away from adding a major accessory that plays off an element in the jacket (like a shape or color). And remember--statement jackets look amazing with a bold lip.  

Basically, the possibilities are endless, but I recommend building the outfit around the jacket or around it and another piece in a complimentary print or color.

Where to Buy a Statement Jacket

So if I've successfully inspired you to pick up a snazzy statement jacket, where should you look?  I've rounded up a list of places I've seen great ones, for every budget.  You're welcome.

$

Target, Express, Forever 21, Rue 21, Maurices, H&M.

$$

Topshop, Zara, Boden, Anthropologie, Nordstrom, J.Crew, Gap, Guess, Bebe.

$$$

Kenzo, MSGM, Dolce & Gabbana, Marissa Webb, Moschino, Rebecca Taylor.

Products: Printed, Plaid, Hot Pink.

What do you think?

Do you ever wear statement jackets?  How do you rock them?  Where do you shop for them?  Interested in trying out this look?  Let us know in the comments!