How to Wear a Shirt Jacket

Trends are always evolving in fashion. These trends are often focused on appearance, but they can wade into the area of practicality, as well. With one of the newest trends on the market – the shirt jacket – both appearance and function play a role. These shirts are comfortable, versatile, stylish, and should be added to your wardrobe.

In this article, we’ll touch on some of the key considerations when wearing a shirt jacket. How does this piece fit into your wardrobe, and when do you wear it?

First of All – What Is a Shirt Jacket?

As the name suggests, this is a half-shirt, half-jacket garment that is as flexible as it is fashionable. For an example from our own collection, check out these V1946 Shirt Jackets.

Some of the basic features of a shirt jacket include:

  • long sleeves and a collar;
  • A button-up or zippered design so you can wear it open or closed; and
  • One or more breast pockets are often included in the design, although that can vary from one garment to the next.

The big appeal of a shirt jacket is its flexibility. When you aren’t quite sure what the weather is going to do for the day, you can turn to this type of garment to give you maximum flexibility. The buttoned or zippered front allows you to wear the shirt jacket open if you get too warm, or you can wear it closed during cold mornings. The combination of two garments makes it perfect for the temperature swings of fall weather.

Tips for Wearing a Shirt Jacket

There are plenty of different ways to incorporate this item into your wardrobe, and you should do what works best for you. With that said, we do have a few tips on how to get the most out of this piece.

Commit to Layers

We’ve already talked about how versatility is the biggest strength of the shirt jacket, so play to that strength by thinking about each outfit in terms of layers. Not only should you be able to open up and close up the shirt jacket based on temperature, but you should also design your outfit to where the shirt jacket can come off completely, if necessary. On cold days, you might actually use the shirt jacket as a middle layer, with both an undershirt and a coat. When collecting items for your fall and winter wardrobe, make sure your various pieces can work together for a layered look.

Pair with Jeans and More

When in doubt, you can safely pair your shirt jacket with jeans and you’ll be on the right track. Of course, jeans go with just about anything, so it makes sense that they are such a nice fit when wearing a shirt jacket. Beyond your jeans, other types of pants like chinos and khakis can work nicely, as well. Depending on the style of your shirt jacket and the look you are going for, you may even be able to use a pair of athletic pants – like track pants – to create something that is comfortable and still looks good.

Make Your Look Special with a Beanie

It’s easy to forget headwear but a slouch beanie or other knit hat is the perfect partner for a shirt jacket. Since the theme with a shirt jacket is layers and versatility, you can take this concept up to the top of your head, as well. Beanies offer warmth on cool mornings and evenings, but it’s lightweight and easy to fit into a pocket when you get too warm. This casual hat, paired with your stylish shirt jacket makes the perfect combo for a fun night out or for lounging around a bonfire in winter evenings.

Not Just a Fad

Shirt jackets have too much to offer your wardrobe to be one of those items that you wear once or twice and tuck away in the closet never to be seen again. You get comfort and style combined, and you’ll look forward to wearing it at every opportunity. V1946 offers many options and styles of shirt jackets so you’re sure to find something you love. Thank you for stopping by V1946 and we are excited to serve you!