Fashion

Lovely light coats for the tail end of summer

When summer doesn’t deliver scorching days and balmy evenings, it’s worth getting a light jacket or coat to get you through to autumn

Top row: Marks & Spencer khaki belted jacket, €120; Whistles suede biker jacket, €385; and H&M geometric belted blazer, €69.95. Bottom row, Debenhams denim patchwork jacket, €67.50; Zara floral bomber, €39.95; Penneys belted wrap trench, €25; and Topshop pink duster coat, €98.

Corina Gaffey
Tue Aug 9 2016 - 06:00

Summer doesn’t always mean blue skies and warm weather. It’s time to get your coat in check and be able to handle any forecast – but not yet time for winter warmers. Let’s explore the many lightweight jacket options instead.

1 The military style
Military style has taken a hold on winter runways, with tailored khaki coats the standouts, as seen on the catwalks of Prada, Miu Miu and Burberry. March forward to autumn by investing in a utility jacket that will make your summer wardrobe stand to attention. Look for simple cuts with strong shoulders and subtle embellishment of brass buttons and rope detail.

2 The biker
Thanks to Louis Vuitton and Vetements, the biker girl is back. It isn't leather weather, so instead opt for stylish suede in rich earthy shades such as khaki, rusty brown or slate grey.

3 Belted blazer
Tailoring is back and it's not just for the boardroom. The summer blazer is your answer to easy layering and comes in many guises: belted, floral, geometric or pinstripe. Move it away from office vibes by wearing it oversized with a fine knit and slim-fit jeans for perfect weekend wear.

READ MORE

4 The denim jacket
Denim is having more than a moment. The embellished, distressed and patchwork styles in shops right now take it far from basic baby blues. Get into the 1990s groove and throw your denim jacket over your slip dress for summer, and layer it up in autumn with a chunky scarf and gloves.

5 The bomber
From Stella McCartney to Topshop, sporty to embroidered, bomber jackets are big this season, with offerings to suit every shape, budget or style. Keep it classic in muted shades or pretty it up in prints. Opt for a style that isn't too puffy.

6 Wrap trench
This spring stalwart is the most classic trans-seasonal garment. For a modern twist, opt for the wrap trench, which is slouchy, lightweight and less structured than it's equally stylish sister, and best worn wrapped and belted in billowing silk, fresh cotton or sumptuous suede.

7 The duster
For those summer days when you want to add drama, the floor-grazing duster coat is the answer. It works for weddings, the races and the like. Opt for clean lines and fuss-free styles for the utmost versatility.