Yes, we know what you’re thinking and, no, there’s no reason to be scared:
This trend is not a carbon copy of the intense, cropped-above-the-belly-button look that haunts us from the late 90s (raise your hand if you’ve also been personally victimized by a crop top!!).
Rather, we’re seeing a shift to outerwear that cuts at variable waist lengths for intentional definition & a stylistic flare that feels fresh!
This trend will be a major moment for ladies of all stages & ages in life, and for good reason. With so many different layering options and stylistic sub-trends, there’s something for everyone!
Scroll through for our stylists’ Top 5 Shrunken Jacket selects for her + our favorite Men’s Novelty Coats.
THE WAIST CINCH
Christine’s favorite:
Why She Loves It:
Jacket season is finally upon us and I couldn’t be happier!! The Manita casual leather jacket from Ba&sh is amazing.
It comes in 4 colors, and although my “go-to” is black, I’m loving the yellow….YES, yellow!
How She’d Style It:
This jacket can be worn by itself as a top or styled layered over a tee. Pair it with wide, slouchy denim and heels.
THE MILITARY INSPIRED
Candace’s favorite:
Betsy Wool Jacket by NILI LOTAN
Why She Loves It:
I have forever loved a military-inspired jacket. There’s just something about the finish and intentional detailing that adds dynamism and interest to a look.
For a fresh take on this jacket concept, opt for a cropped length like this one by Nili Lotan.
How She’d Style It:
Pair it with full leg trousers or relaxed denim, a simple tee and a lovely silk scarf for a laidback, polished look for the fall days ahead.
THE SHEARLING TRIM
Elizabeth’s favorite:
Shearling-trim Shrunken Jacket by VINCE
Why She Loves It:
We love a shrunken jacket for the Fall season and one with leather and shearling is so chic and modern.
How She’d Style It:
It’s an easy way to style your black trousers and a simple blouse for Wear to Work or for the weekend with a oversized denim and a fitted cashmere sweater.
THE UTILITY FUNNEL NECK
McKenna’s favorite:
Duncan Plaid-lined Utility Jacket by Pilcro
Why She Loves It:
A funnel neck is an instant way to take any look from basic to chic! This utility cropped coat perfectly exemplifies that.
The plaid lining on the inside of the jacket adds a fun touch when you scrunch your sleeve or pop down your collar to showcase it!
How She’d Style It:
For an easy, elevated look, zip the jacket all the way up to show off that high fashion high neckline.
Pair it with a dark wash straight leg denim and simple heel.
THE MOTO BOMBER
Brooke’s favorite:
Why She Loves It:
Fall is the best time of year, simply because I love having an excuse to wear a jacket! More specifically, a shrunken moto jacket!
This moto jacket is one of my favorites because of its cool bubble silhouette, which adds interest and shape while still feeling effortless.
How She’d Style It:
Style it with sleek black capris and a mesh pump for an effortlessly cool-girl look that feels perfect for fall.
MEN’S TREND: NOVELTY COATS
Our Men’s Style Director, Ben, shares two of his favorite pieces from the Fall Men’s jacket trend.
THE SUEDE BOMBER
Why Ben Loves It:
Suede is a must for fall, and this suede bomber hits all the marks! We’re seeing jackets like this, along with the ever-popular chore coat, paired back to business-casual looks instead of the traditional overcoat.
I love that this bomber is the perfect balance between polished and relaxed, making it an easy way to add a little personality to your fall wardrobe without feeling like you’re trying too hard. I am here for it!
THE OVERSHIRT JACKET
Why Ben Loves It:
I love this Robert Barakett jacket because it has a hint of structure like a trucker-style jacket (think jean jacket) but also the comfort and ease of an overshirt- a hybrid if you will!
This pairs well with a t-shirt and your favorite jeans and boots. Or layer it over a flannel and a great pair of corduroy 5-pocket pants when it gets colder.
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