When it comes to fall jackets, you have a lot of options. There are quilted types, peacoats, denim jackets and puffers for miles. The best fall jackets for women deliver a moderate amount of warmth, layer well over other clothing and are versatile enough to handle changing weather, from rain to wind. As a fashion editor and enthusiastic shopper, I have collected many jackets over the years, and now I tend to be quite picky about adding any others to my already full lineup. Still, even I can’t resist the temptation of certain styles this season.
The best fall jackets for women deliver a moderate amount of warmth, layer well over other clothing … [+] and are versatile enough to handle changing weather.
ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS
Ahead, you’ll find a mix of classics and recently released fall jackets that deserve your consideration. Whether you want something to pull together an outfit, wear to work or keep you cozy at night, here are the best fall jackets for women to shop right now. (I’ve already put a few in my cart.)
Editor’s Picks At A Glance
Crisp, classic and comfortable: It doesn’t get any better than J.Crew’s range of (affordable) peacoats, and this Toscana pick comes in standard, petite and plus sizes. You can also choose from a variety of colors, and the wool here is thick and durable.
An excellent mid-layer, Everlane’s quilted liner can be both a stand-alone jacket in milder temperatures and an extra layer worn under winter coats. It comes in five autumnal colors and is made from recycled polyester. Snap closures and side pockets round out the versatile design.
We have a complete guide to the best jean jackets, but if you’re looking for something new, Anthropologie’s boyfriend denim jacket is a more relaxed take on the classic style. It has longer sleeves for cuffing, plus side slits so it layers easily over bulky sweaters.
A chic transitional piece, Alex Mill’s bomber is cut from linen and cotton, which gives it a casual-cool feel. It adds a masculine edge to everything from high-rise jeans to flowy dresses to wide-leg work pants.
Whether or not you’re heading to the gym, a good athletic jacket can serve many purposes in the fall. Lululemon’s is fitted and insulated without being bulky, so you can wear it now and in colder weather. It’s also reversible and water-repellant, which comes in handy for travel, too, and it packs down easily.
Barbour has been making outerwear for centuries, and it’s a favorite brand of British royalty. The Beadnell is lined in tartan for the main body and with moleskin for the pockets to keep your hands warm. It’s also outfitted with a corduroy collar, front flap bellows pockets and a waxed, water-resistant exterior. Although Barbour jackets are pricey, they hold their value over time and are a worthy investment.
Car coats are typically cut shorter than other full-length options, with the idea that you can get in and out of a car or just move easily in them. Old Navy’s has a notched lapel, three-button front and welt pockets. Reviewers praise the quality fabric plus its good weight, flattering design and range of fits (petite to tall).
A lightweight puffer is a workhorse in fall: You can wear it on cool days without being weighed down, and Quince’s easily packs into a pocket for travel. It has a 700 fill power for warmth, is water-repellent and wind-resistant and made with recycled materials and responsibly sourced down. Plus, it’s affordable at less than $100.
Made from washed leather with a broken-in feel, Madewell’s motorcycle jacket has recently been updated with brass hardware for a rugged look. This pick is a bestseller that comes in a few different colors besides black, and runs small since it’s meant to have a cropped, lean fit.
Perfectly fuzzy and cozy, L.L.Bean’s classic sherpa jacket is made for fall days. I like this jacket so much that I have two, just in case one wears out faster than the other. But so far, I’ve noticed zero signs of that happening, which speaks to the Maine-based company’s commitment to craftsmanship.
Stadium jackets add a sporty feel to your look and are a nice alternative to a hoodie or sweatshirt on the weekends. This pick has a slim fit with built-in stretch, so it’s comfortable to move around in. The contrasting green and white also add a pop of color and have that athletic vibe.
On mild fall days, you might only need to toss on a blazer. This one is affordable with a relaxed fit, so it looks more like a jacket than something that goes with a suit. It’s made from brushed twill and is machine-washable for convenience.
Free People’s Suzy jacket takes its inspiration from a chore coat, with its front patch pockets and wide collar. While it’s a pricey pick, it’s cut from 100% suede and has a buttery texture that’s luxe for fall and early winter.
Shakets or shirt-jacs have become incredibly popular recently, thanks to their laidback look and easy-to-layer possibilities. American Giant’s has a perfectly relaxed fit and is cut from 100% brushed cotton for extra softness with the right amount of structure.
Filson is all about high-quality, durable workwear, and their Cruiser jacket is an excellent utility coat that can take a beating and look even better for it. Pair this rugged pick with softer pieces, like sweaters and skirts, for a rough-but-refined fall aesthetic.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
At Forbes Vetted, we are experts on a variety of fashion topics, ranging from the best cashmere sweaters to the warmest winter coats for women. We meticulously research and test clothing to determine the most stylish, comfortable and versatile pieces for everything from work to weekends.
The editor for this story, Forbes Vetted deputy editor Kari Molvar, holds a certificate in fashion styling from the Business of Fashion and has covered lifestyle topics—and more recently, fashion—for two decades.
Molvar has tested and worn many of the brands included in this story, including J.Crew, American Giant, Quince, Alex Mill and L.L.Bean.
This story is continuously updated to include new items and reflect changes in availability and pricing. It was last updated in October 2024.
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