A Complete Guide to the Different Types of Jackets for Men & Women

Plus, how to choose the right jacket for the season & your style

Jackets are a true fashion staple, as they keep you warm in cool weather and protect you from the elements while adding a touch of style to your look. But did you know there are different types of jackets? In this article, we’ll go over the most popular types of jackets, what they’re good for, when to wear them, and how to style them with tips from clothing experts and stylists. Plus, we’ll give you advice on how to choose the best jacket for you. Keep on reading to learn more!

The Most Iconic Jackets You Should Know

Illustration of 10 popular jacket styles, including the leather jacket, denim jacket, bomber jacket, varsity jacket, fleece jacket, puffer jacket, trench coat, peacoat, parka, and raincoat.

The most popular jacket types include the leather jacket, denim jacket, bomber jacket, varsity jacket, fleece jacket, puffer jacket, trench coat, peacoat, parka, and raincoat. Choose a jacket based on the weather and climate, your style, and where you plan to wear it (i.e., casual or formal settings).

Section 1 of 3:

Types of Jackets

  1. Step 1 Leather jacket
    According to vintage clothing & upcycling expert Siena Filippi, the leather jacket is one of the most popular and timeless styles of jackets, making it a great addition to your wardrobe.[1] Because the coat is made of leather, it’s comfortable, warm, and very durable. Most styles feature a collar and lapel with zippered pockets.
    • When to wear it: In mild to cold temperatures (many people wear it year-round) and casual settings.
    • How to style it: Celebrity stylist Kara Allan says leather jackets are super versatile, so you can dress them up or down. She suggests wearing them with nice jeans and a t-shirt, or with a dress.[2]

    Meet the wikiHow Experts

    Siena Filippi is a vintage clothing & upcycling expert who creates content on social media around thrifting, DIY, sustainable fashion, and vintage clothing.

    Kara Allan is a celebrity stylist and owner of Style by Kara Allan. She has over 19 years of styling experience.

    Stephanie Fajardo is a professional stylist with over 17 years of styling experience in personal consulting and film shoots.

    Elle Monus is a stylist and co-founder of True Image Group. She has over 11 years of fashion industry experience.

    Paul Julch, MA is a personal wardrobe stylist and founder of Urbanite

  2. Step 2 Denim jacket
    Also known as the jean jacket, the denim jacket is another timeless wardrobe staple. The jacket is made out of denim material and usually has a collar, 2 buttoned breast pockets, and 2 open side pockets. Most denim jackets are lightweight and come in a wide variety of washes (dark, light, acid, etc.) and styles (cropped, long, distressed, etc.).[3]
    • When to wear it: In mild temperatures and casual settings.
    • How to style it: Professional stylist Stephanie Fajardo suggests wearing light-wash denim jackets in the spring and dark-wash denim jackets in the fall.[4] Pair your jacket with a t-shirt and jeans or shorts, or over a casual dress.
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  3. Step 3 Bomber jacket
    The bomber jacket was originally designed to keep pilots warm during World War I and II, but it’s now considered one of the most popular styles of jackets. The zip-up jacket has a straight silhouette and a simple, collar-less design. Most jackets are either made out of nylon or leather and come in neutral colors like black, brown, navy blue, and army green.[5]
    • When to wear it: Lightweight bomber jackets are best for mild temperatures, while insulated or fur-lined bomber jackets are great for cold temperatures. Wear them in casual or smart-casual settings.
    • How to style it: Wear them with a t-shirt and jeans or joggers for a casual look, or dress them up slightly with a button-down and trousers.
  4. Step 4 Motorcycle jacket
    The motorcycle jacket, also called the biker jacket, is a type of leather jacket that is traditionally worn by motorcyclists to keep them warm as they ride. However, the style is popular with non-bikers, too. What sets this style apart from leather jackets is its fitted silhouette and off-center zipper, which helps keep the jacket from riding up while you’re sitting. Most styles feature a collar and lapels, as well as multiple pockets and belt detailing.[6]
    • When to wear it: In mild to cold temperatures (many people wear it year-round) and casual settings.
    • How to style it: For a casual look, pair it with jeans and a t-shirt. For an edgier look, wear it with leather pants and boots.
  5. Step 5 Blazer
    The blazer is an elegant jacket that adds a touch of professionalism to every outfit. The jacket is lightweight, so it’s not usually worn for warmth, but for style. It’s a semi-structured design with sharp shoulders, a straight silhouette, and a collar and lapels. Most styles feature 1 or 2 buttons and pocket flaps on the sides, and can be made out of a wide variety of materials like wool, cotton, linen, or synthetic fabric.[7]
    • When to wear it: In mild temperatures and smart-casual to professional settings.
    • How to style it: Pair a blazer with slacks and a button-down for a day at the office. Or, personal style and color analysis expert Michelle T. Sterling suggests wearing a blazer to dress up a t-shirt and jeans.[8]
  6. Step 6 Tuxedo jacket
    The tuxedo jacket, also known as the dinner jacket, is a formal style that men traditionally wear with a suit and bow tie. The jacket is sharp and fitted at the waist, and has long lapels. Most tuxedo jackets only have 1 button, a subtle breast pocket, and come in formal colors like black, navy blue, and white.[9]
    • When to wear it: In mild temperatures and formal settings.
    • How to style it: Wear a tuxedo jacket with a white or black collared button-down, a bow tie, and black tuxedo pants.
  7. Step 7 Shirt jacket
    The shirt jacket, also known as the shacket, is a transitional piece that blends the casualness of a shirt with the warmth of a jacket. Most shirt jackets resemble a button-down shirt, complete with a collar, breast pockets, button closures, and a loose, relaxed fit. They’re typically made out of flannel, wool, or cotton, and come in a lot of different colors and patterns.[10]
    • When to wear it: In mild temperatures and casual settings.
    • How to style it: Wear it with a t-shirt and jeans in the spring, or over a sweater in the fall.
  8. Step 8 Military field jacket
    The military field jacket (sometimes called a military jacket or a field jacket) was originally made for the military to provide service members with a warm and functional coat. The utilitarian design features multiple large breast and side pockets, and its lightweight and loose, relaxed fit makes it great for layering. Most military field jackets are made out of canvas or cotton and come in classic colors like cream, brown, black, navy, and army green.[11]
    • When to wear it: In mild temperatures and casual settings.
    • How to style it: Stylist Elle Monus says, “Military jackets are a great casual addition to an outfit—oversized is even better in today’s trends.” For an edgy 90s look, she suggests wearing it with a t-shirt, distressed jeans, and combat boots. For a casual and trendy look, she says to pair it with joggers, a sweatshirt, and sneakers.[12]
  9. Step 9 Quilted jacket
    The quilted jacket is a classy and stylish transitional piece that’s named after its diamond quilted pattern. The jacket is thin and lightly insulated, making it perfect for layering without adding extra bulk. It’s made out of a wide variety of materials like nylon, polyester, and cotton. While designs can vary, most quilted jackets are short, have a straight and slightly structured silhouette, and feature a collar but no hood.[13]
    • When to wear it: In mild temperatures and casual to smart-casual settings.
    • How to style it: Wear a quilted jacket over chinos and a button-down shirt for a dressier option, or pair it with jeans and a t-shirt for informal occasions. In cold weather, layer it over a sweater or hoodie to stay warm.
  10. Step 10 Varsity jacket
    The varsity jacket, also known as the letterman jacket, is an iconic piece that was originally made for Harvard University athletes to wear and show off their team affiliation. Other schools made their own varsity jackets, and now anyone can get one (with or without a specific team affiliation). The varsity jacket is a boxy variation on the bomber style that’s traditionally made with a fleece front and leather sleeves. The sleeves are a different color from the front, and the front typically features fabric letters or symbols that designate the school or team.[14]
    • When to wear it: In mild to cold temperatures and casual settings.
    • How to style it: For an ultra-casual athleisure look, wear your varsity jacket with a jogger set. Or, simply wear it as a statement piece with jeans and a t-shirt.
  11. Step 11 Chore jacket
    The chore jacket is a roomy and lightweight coat that’s inspired by practical workwear. The jacket has a utilitarian design with its simple collar, button-up closure, and multiple pockets down the front, making it great for carrying tools and other items you need on the go. It’s made out of thick and durable materials like canvas, denim, and wool, which gives it a boxy and slightly structured silhouette.[15]
    • When to wear it: In mild temperatures and casual settings.
    • How to style it: Wear the jacket over a t-shirt, sweater, or casual button-down and jeans. For an even more utilitarian look, pair it with work boots or combat boots.
  12. Step 12 Harrington jacket
    The Harrington jacket, also known as the blouson jacket, is a super simple and classic coat, making it the ultimate closet staple. The lightweight, waist-length jacket is a preppy take on the bomber and features a high collar, straight and fitted silhouette, and zip-up design. The side pockets are typically hidden, which gives the jacket a super sleek look. The Harrington jacket is made out of a lot of different fabrics, like cotton, leather, and polyester.
    • When to wear it: In mild temperatures (many people wear it all year-long) and casual to smart-casual settings.
    • How to style it: Wear it with shorts or jeans and a t-shirt, or dress it up slightly with trousers and a button-down.
  13. Step 13 Fleece jacket
    The fleece jacket is an ultra-soft and fuzzy coat that’s perfect for staying comfortable and warm in the winter. The jacket is lightweight and insulated, making it great for layering over your shirt and under a thicker coat. Fleece jackets have a relaxed and flexible silhouette and usually feature a high collar and either a full or half zipper. They’re typically made out of polyester.
    • When to wear it: In mild to cold temperatures and casual settings.
    • How to style it: Wear a fleece jacket with a sweater and jeans for a casual, everyday look. Or, achieve the gorpcore look by pairing it with cargo pants, a thermal shirt, and hiking boots.
  14. Step 14 Trench coat
    The trench coat is one of the most timeless and classically stylish jackets, says Filippi.[16] This structured and heavy-weight style was originally created for soldiers during World War I. It’s known for its long length (which typically hits below the knee), large collar and lapels, off-center closure, and 6 big buttons across the front. Most styles also have a belt that cinches the waist. The trench coat is made out of durable materials like wool and cotton, which help it stand up to the harshest conditions.
    • When to wear it: In cold temperatures and smart-casual to formal settings.
    • How to style it: This classy style leans more formal, so wear it to work, over a suit or fancy dress, or with trousers and a nice sweater. It can also dress up casual outfits and pairs nicely with jeans or joggers.
  15. Step 15 Peacoat
    The peacoat is like a shorter version of the trench coat. It’s another classy and formal style that’s heavyweight and structured, and features an asymmetrical closer and 6 buttons down the front. Like the trench coat, the peacoat also has a large collar and lapels, and is usually made out of thick, durable fabrics like wool and cotton. It does not typically have a waist belt, though.[17]
    • When to wear it: In cold temperatures and smart-casual to formal settings.
    • How to style it: The peacoat has a more formal look, so wear it with slacks and a button-down to work, or wear it to formal occasions like weddings and business dinners. It can also dress up a nice pair of jeans and sneakers.
  16. Step 16 Puffer jacket
    The puffer jacket is the perfect casual winter coat. It’s lightweight but super insulated, keeping you warm even in very cold temperatures. The puffy, padded design is loose and relaxed, making it great for layering while still allowing you to move around. The jacket is typically made out of shiny nylon or polyester, which also makes it resistant to rain. Depending on the style, the puffer may have a high collar or a hood.[18]
    • When to wear it: In cold temperatures and casual to smart-casual settings.
    • How to style it: The puffer jacket has an informal, outdoorsy look, so it pairs best with jeans and sneakers or hiking pants and shoes. However, it’s fine to wear it over slacks or chinos and a sweater in more relaxed office settings.
  17. Step 17 Overcoat
    The overcoat is a traditional style that’s like a mix between the trench coat and the peacoat. The thick, heavyweight style typically falls around mid-thigh, has a structured silhouette with a collar and lapels, and is made out of durable fabrics like wool and cotton. Some designs have a center closure with 3 buttons, while others have an off-center closure with 6 buttons.
    • When to wear it: In cold temperatures and smart-casual to formal settings.
    • How to style it: Personal wardrobe stylist Paul Julch, MA says the overcoat can go over anything, as it dresses up every look. He says the versatile piece “can really take you anywhere from just jeans and a sweater, all the way to wearing it over a suit” or “over a cocktail dress.”[19]
  18. Step 18 Parka
    The parka is a bulky and heavyweight coat that’s typically reserved for the coldest, most severe weather. It was originally invented by the Inuit and Nenets people, who live in the harsh Arctic region.[20] The parka typically hits at or below the knee, is insulated with down, and features a faux or real fur-lined hood. Traditional parkas were made with caribou or seal skin, but today they’re usually made out of polyester or nylon, which makes them water-resistant.
    • When to wear it: In cold temperatures and casual to smart-casual settings. It may be the most practical option for formal occasions if you live in a very cold climate.
    • How to style it: Wear a parka with jeans and a sweater for casual outings or with hiking and thermal gear if you’re spending time outdoors. Or, simply throw it over any outfit to stay warm as needed.
  19. Step 19 Vest
    The vest, also called a gilet, is a type of sleeveless jacket that’s great for layering over sweaters or lightweight coats. It keeps your body warm without adding bulk to your arms, which helps you retain your range of motion. The vest comes in a wide range of styles, from the insulated puffer vest to the soft fleece vest, and materials, including canvas, wool, polyester, and nylon.
    • When to wear it: In mild to cold temperatures and in casual to smart-casual settings (depending on the style).
    • How to style it: Puffer vests have a more casual look, and pair well with sweatshirts and jeans or hiking pants. Wool and fleece vests can be dressed up and look good with chinos or nice jeans and a sweater or button-down.
  20. Step 20 Raincoat
    The raincoat is a jacket that’s specifically made to repel water and keep you dry in the rain. It’s very lightweight, so it doesn’t provide much warmth. Most coats hit below the waist and feature a hood to keep your head from getting wet. The raincoat is made out of coated nylon or polyester and has a loose design to keep the coat breathable.[21]
    • When to wear it: In mild temperatures and casual settings. It may be the most practical option for more formal occasions if it’s raining, though.
    • How to style it: Wear it over whatever you have on when it’s raining, from jeans or a dress to slacks and a button-down.
  21. Step 21 Windbreaker
    The windbreaker is a lightweight jacket that’s just made for protecting you from windy conditions—it doesn’t provide a lot of warmth. Most windbreakers have a similar relaxed and loose style to raincoats (though windbreakers are not waterproof), feature a hood, and are made out of nylon or polyester.[22]
    • When to wear it: In mild temperatures and casual settings.
    • How to style it: You typically wear a windbreaker when it’s windy outside and you’re spending a lot of time outdoors, like running, hiking, or cycling. So, wear it with athletic gear, a jogger set, or with jeans and a t-shirt.
  22. Step 22 Anorak
    The anorak is a hooded, pull-over jacket that’s made to protect you from the wind and rain. Like the parka, it was originally created by the Inuit people.[23] Most styles feature drawstrings at the hood and waist to adjust the tightness and a large zippered pocket on the front. The anorak is lightweight and typically made out of nylon or polyester.
    • When to wear it: In mild temperatures and casual settings.
    • How to style it: Wear it with jeans and a tee or sweater, or with cargo pants and hiking shoes if you’re spending time outdoors.
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Section 2 of 3:

How to Choose a Jacket

  1. 1
    Consider the season, climate, and weather where you live. For the most part, jackets serve a practical purpose to keep you warm and protected from the elements. So, think about what you need a jacket for. Do you live in a super cold area that gets a lot of snow, or do the temperatures stay moderate to mild? If your region experiences a true fall and spring, you may want transitional pieces that keep you warm when the temperatures cool down, too.
    • For instance, parkas and trench coats provide the most warmth and are great options if you live in a very cold and snowy area.
    • Peacoats, fleece jackets, and puffer jackets are heavy-duty jackets that provide enough warmth in average cold areas.
    • Quilted, leather, and denim jackets are more lightweight and make great transitional pieces for the fall and spring.
    • If you just need protection from the rain or wind, go for a raincoat, windbreaker, or anorak.
  2. 2
    Think about your personal style and the look you want to achieve. While jackets are practical, they’re also a fashion piece that helps contribute to your look and style. So, get a jacket that matches your vibe. For instance, leather and bomber jackets have an edgier look, Harrington jackets and peacoats have a classic look, and puffer and fleece jackets have an outdoorsy look.
  3. 3
    Consider where you’ll be wearing the jacket. Some jackets have a casual and utilitarian vibe, while others look more traditional and classy. So, think about the occasions you need to wear a jacket to, as well as what activities you’ll be doing while you wear it. For instance, trench coats and peacoats have the most formal and put-together look, and work best for formal occasions. Military field jackets, puffer jackets, and anoraks are meant to be worn while doing outdoor activities, so they work best for casual settings.
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Section 3 of 3:

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. 1
    What are jackets usually made of? Jackets are made out of a wide variety of fabrics. The most common materials are wool, cotton, fleece, leather, polyester, nylon, canvas, and denim.[25]
  2. 2
    Which jacket is the best for winter? The best jackets for winter are the parka, trench coat, overcoat, peacoat, and puffer jacket, as they are longer and provide the most warmth and insulation. For extremely cold and snowy conditions, the parka is the best jacket to wear.
  3. 3
    How often should I wash my jacket? Aim to wash your jacket once or twice each season you wear it. Of course, if you notice it’s dirty or smells, you may need to wash it more often.[26]
    • Pay special attention to what your jacket is made out of before you wash it. Some materials, like polyester, nylon, and canvas, can be machine-washed. However, wool and leather coats typically need to be dry-cleaned.
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References

  1. ↑ Siena Filippi. Vintage Clothing & Upcycling Expert. Expert Interview
  2. ↑ Kara Allan. Celebrity Stylist. Expert Interview
  3. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-jackets-guide
  4. ↑ Stephanie Fajardo. Professional Stylist. Expert Interview
  5. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-jackets-guide
  6. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-jackets-guide
  7. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-jackets-guide
  8. ↑ Michelle T. Sterling. Personal Style and Color Analysis Expert. Expert Interview
  9. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-jackets-guide
  1. ↑ https://sewguide.com/popular-jackets-names/
  2. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-jackets-guide
  3. ↑ Elle Monus. Stylist. Expert Interview
  4. ↑ https://youtu.be/UWx4JKCHxqU?si=H0y_meZo9YOUEm1O&t=25
  5. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-jackets-guide
  6. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-jackets-guide
  7. ↑ Siena Filippi. Vintage Clothing & Upcycling Expert. Expert Interview
  8. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-jackets-guide
  9. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-jackets-guide
  10. ↑ Paul Julch, MA. Personal Wardrobe Stylist. Expert Interview
  11. ↑ https://www.britishmuseum.org/blog/parkas-gift-north
  12. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-jackets-guide
  13. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-jackets-guide
  14. ↑ https://fashionhistory.fitnyc.edu/anorak/
  15. ↑ Kara Allan. Celebrity Stylist. Expert Interview
  16. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-jackets-guide
  17. ↑ https://www.southernliving.com/how-often-should-you-wash-jackets-and-coats-8774502

About This Article

Siena Filippi
Co-authored by:
Siena Filippi
Thrifting and Sustainable Style Creator
This article was co-authored by Siena Filippi and by wikiHow staff writer, Devin McSween. Siena Filippi is a thrifting and sustainable style creator based in New York City, NY. Siena creates content on social media around thrifting, thrift flips & DIY, sustainable fashion, and vintage clothing for an audience of over 680k followers. She is also the owner of ViaSiena, a vintage clothing store located in Dumbo, NY and available to shop online. Most recently, she has grown her audience and customer base and created an in-person vintage market series called Day-to-Night Vintage Markets that combine class vintage market shopping with socal nightlife activities.
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Updated: December 11, 2025
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Categories: Outerwear
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