Five Autumn Jackets to Last a Lifetime

Autumn jackets should be able to cope with a wide range of weather conditions, everything from the last gasp of summer to, here in Scandinavia at least, the sudden flurries of snow announcing the impending arrival of winter. No matter what kind of jacket you choose, it is always a wise idea to invest in a timeless model that will transcend passing trends and keep you looking stylish for many years. This is especially true if you, like many of the men I speak to in my role as style advisor, tend to limit yourself to just one or two jackets. Below, we suggest five styles and colours guaranteed to keep you looking and feeling your best for years to come.

The Mac

Originally conceived as a way of keeping drivers warm and dry back in the days when most cars were roofless, the medium-length mac, or 'car coat', usually features a construction that is either partly or fully waterproof. Navy, beige and even khaki are sure-fire choices for enduring elegance. The 'mac' name itself references Scottish manufacturer MACKINTOSH who devised the original model, using their patented rubber-laminated gabardine fabric.

The Field Jacket

Despite the model's military origins, many subsequent iterations of the field jacket have tended towards tasteful understatement, doing away with many of the traditional militaristic accoutrements. A field jacket of classic length makes a casual yet well-dressed impression, and pairs just as readily over a heavy-knit polo neck as it does over a suit jacket, creating a smart and sophisticated look without being overly formal. Here too, colours such as navy blue, olive green and dark grey are all excellent choices. 

Harrington

In the years since British marque BARACUTA released the very first Harrington jacket, nigh on every jacket manufacturer has launched its own 'Harrington' model. This thin style of jacket can be worn 'as is' or as an attractive mid-layer under a thicker jacket, in much the same way as a casual blazer. Classic colours include navy, beige, olive green, brown, black, and even muted burgundy.

Peacoat

The peacoat still forms part of the naval uniforms for which it was originally conceived. With its double buttoning and substantial lapels, the model makes a particularly elegant impression, with a collar that can be turned up when winds begin to howl. The peacoat's shorter length creates a somewhat more casual look than a long woollen coat, harmonising just as effortlessly with a suit as it does with jeans and sneakers. Navy blue with brass buttons is the most traditional choice, but many models are now also available in anthracite, camel, black and brown, often combined with more sombre buttoning in navy or brown.

The Wax Jacket

A wax jacket is possibly one of the most versatile items of clothing a man can own. If the summer happens to be particularly mild, a wax jacket can be worn more or less year-round, just by adjusting the number of layers worn underneath. Olive green is the most traditional choice, though navy, rustic brown and burgundy are also classic choices. Black, waxed cotton canvas is typical of more racing inspired variants.