Fall Jacket Season Is Here—These Are the Ones Worth Buying

Allow me to introduce you to the layers I can’t live without.

collage of Lauren Tappan wearing fall jackets
(Image credit: Lauren Tappan)

As summer temperatures drop, it’s finally time for me to switch out my warm-weather essentials for heavier layers that will keep me warm through the cooler days ahead. Besides stocking up on soft sweaters and cozy cardigans, I’ll be making space in my closet for the best fall jackets that are both trendy and timeless.

For shopping inspiration, I’ve been browsing the latest collections from my favorite retailers. A few days ago, I stopped by Madewell’s SoHo flagship store, where I saw an array of suede jackets in rich shades of chestnut and chocolate brown. At Everlane, I noticed sleek barn jackets and trench coats that will soon become essentials in every It girl’s capsule wardrobe. Meanwhile, Gap is offering a selection of jean jackets that match this season’s hottest denim trends.

With many options available, it was easy to compile a list of my favorite autumn outerwear styles. Ahead, you’ll find tried-and-true pieces I already own, along with designs that are high on my wish list. Additionally, I’ve shared clever styling tips you can rely on throughout the season.

lauren tappan wearing aritzia's leather bomber jacket with a button-down shirt, jeans, and boots

My fall wardrobe isn't complete without Aritzia's leather bomber jacket. I often style this piece with a button-down shirt, wide-leg jeans, and pointy black boots.

(Image credit: Lauren Tappan)
Lauren Tappan
Fashion Editor

Lauren K. Tappan is the Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, where she covers trend forecasting and shopping stories, highlighting runway-inspired styles and a blend of emerging and established brands. Prior to joining Marie Claire, she worked as a freelance editor for Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE, specializing in e-commerce content and curating seasonal trend reports. Earlier in her career, she worked at Town & Country, developing a strong portfolio of fashion roundups and designer profiles.

Lauren holds a bachelor's degree in communications with a minor in journalism from the University of Pennsylvania. While at Penn, she served as editor-in-chief of The Walk, the university's fashion magazine, and completed internships at Philadelphia Style Magazine and EveryStylishGirl.