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It’s the hybrid you never knew you needed.
We’ve officially entered that time of year when heavy layers are stored away for good (until winter that is!). And there’s one specific item that’s become a must-have for springtime outfits: a shacket. A cross between a traditional jacket and a regular shirt, this piece is sometimes referred to as an overshirt. It’s meant to be worn on days that aren’t warm enough for short sleeves, yet not cold enough for winterwear. In earnest, the shacket is the fashion-forward and utilitarian solution to the changing seasons.
Typically made from lighter fabrics, you can find shackets in materials that range from leather and cotton to denim and wool. The beauty of the shacket is just how versatile it is when it comes to styling. You can wear it as a shirt tucked into your favorite bottoms or as a jacket over a t-shirt. The choice is yours. Signature details of the shacket are (but not limited to) a collar, buttons, zippers, and utility pockets, making it a top choice for on-the-go days.
This spring, I’m looking forward to wearing my black leather shacket styled open like a cardigan, with white jeans, a black belt, a white tank top, and ballet slippers. Knowing myself, I’d complete the look with black matching accessories like cat-eye sunglasses and a headband. That said, there are so many other ways to wear a shacket.
Ahead, we gathered nine foolproof ways to style your shacket this season and beyond.
Denim on Denim
Say hello to your new favorite rendition of a Canadian tuxedo. A blue denim shacket tucked into high-waisted jeans in the same wash makes for a pretty sharp ensemble. To master the sophisticated look, a great way to break up the matching silhouette is by incorporating caramel brown accessories–I recommend a belt, handbag, and loafers.
Leather Weather
Adding sleekness and a bit of warmth to any outfit, an oversized leather shacket is the answer to those in-between weather days. Forget freezing when the wind blows by wearing this boxy top over loose-fitting white jeans and embellished ballet flats. If you want to stand out, add a colorful crewneck sweatshirt over your shoulders for a unique touch.
The Everyday Look
Need to run a quick errand? Look no further for your new, comfortable everyday look: a neutral-toned baggy shacket and ribbed trousers. It’s no wonder the baggy trend is back with the resurgence of ‘90s and Y2K fashion. But a nod to those eras wouldn’t be right without a nostalgic sneaker in the year’s biggest color: a pop of red.
With Eveningwear
If you thought shackets were reserved only for casual looks, think again. Full-length skirts, boots, and fine jewelry pair seamlessly with a plaid overshirt for a fancy affair. A cropped satin bandeau will look so chic styled under a shacket. You’ll have the option to remove it once you’ve arrived at your destination, but something tells me you’ll want to keep your stylish shacket on.
Soft but Elevated
A soft and structured pastel shacket can serve as the main focal point of a laid-back look. Elevate the otherwise casual style with leggings, knee-high black boots, and a classic handbag. Striking a careful balance, this is a comfortable yet polished option, whether you’re heading to a work meeting or for a nightcap with friends.
Add in Some Color
Sure… keep things muted, but once the flowers are in full bloom it would be wrong not to add some color to your outfit. The best way to do so is by choosing a shacket in an unexpected color, like moody orange. Keep the rest of the look simple with boyfriend jeans, a belt, and a white tee. A vibrant bag in a different shade shows that you’re not afraid to experiment.
Subtly Chic
Your favorite year-round black jeans and a crop top are back at it. But if you’re not quite ready to bare some shoulder, an earth-toned shacket will keep you feeling warm this spring. Pair a ludicrously capacious bag and simple loafers for a minimalist and elevated take on the traditional white top-dark denim formula. Few things can go wrong with this.
An Unexpected Shoe
Twinning just got more fun in coordinated oversized shackets and joggers. A pointed-toe pump will bring that unexpected pep to your step, elevating the otherwise casual formula. From classic pumps to sky-high platforms, a mere shoe choice can change the tone of your outfit completely without sacrificing the comfort level.
Longing for Plaid
Making the case for a fantastic top layer, a long plaid shacket is the alternative you need instead of a traditional jacket. A turtleneck and leggings will go far in keeping you warm underneath, but a colorful midi-length shacket is the flowy button-down that puts it all together. Grab an accent clutch and you’ll be well on your way this spring.