A fresh coat; Kick that grimy winter coat to the cleaners. Bright spring jackets and coats abound this season in a variety of lengths, shapes and cuts, says Georgina Heffernan.
Q. Now that the weather is getting warmer, I’d love to buy a new spring jacket to wear instead of my heavy winter coat. What styles are in fashion this season and what’s the best way to wear them?
A. It may still be cold outside, but it's never too early to start looking ahead to fashion trends for spring. When the weather gets warmer, it will be time to ditch your heavy coat in favour of a lighter, brighter jacket. Jackets are going to be big this spring. They work best as an alternative to the cardigan, as we return to a tailored silhouette and a more structured shape. Key styles to pick up include the cropped boxy 50s-style jacket, fitted denim jacket, sporty blazer and biker. Here’s a rundown of the hottest styles and – how to wear them.
Check out some of our top picks from the high street.
Biker chic: Vroom, vroom! Every fashionista needs a leather jacket. The leather jacket dates back to fashion in the 1950s when worn by a hipshakin Elvis and has had enjoyed fashion moments in various forms over the years. I love the latest revival if quilted biker style that lends every outfit a touch of rock chick cool. To keep the look fresh and feminine, stick to neutral tones, butter soft leathers and gold stud detailing. But if wearing them all together is a bit full throttle for your taste, just pick one great standout piece.
Jean jackets: Denim jackets never fade from the fashion front and SS11 is no different. The old faithful fabric was back on the spring/summer catwalks in a big way but jeans weren't the only staple to emerge as a style favourite .This season it was all about the tailored denim jacket. For a softer look, stick to pale blue chambray, which has more fluidity and movement than stiffer denim fabrics.
Blazer: One of the biggest fashion stories of the season has to be the blazer. This men's staple has been plucked from the male wardrobe, given a bit of a style update and plays a central role for women for SS11. Choose from classic navy and black – or if you are feeling a little daring a bright floral print.
Boucle jacket: CHANEL, the epitome of classic elegance for years, has sparked frenzy for boucle this season. It's always been an exclusive look, loved by celebrities from Nicole Kidman to Penelope Cruz. But this spring, boucle is everywhere, and you don't have to extend your overdraft and go designer - there's plenty of this classic and chic material on the high street. The easiest and most fail-safe way to pull it off is to mix it up with denim, to help dress it down otherwise you start getting into old lady territory.
Cropped jacket: To create the perfect hourglass shape, choose a figure-hugging jacket with one or two buttons at the waist - and it's a cinch! Show you mean business - a cropped jacket worn with your favourite jeans will instantly smarten up your act.
