Trend Alert – Utility Jackets
A major trend for spring/summer 2019 is Utility wear. Cargo pants, utility jumpsuits, jackets, vests and coats were all over the runways. If you are going to add just one piece to your wardrobe, make it the utility jacket. A utility jacket is a fabulously versatile piece. You can wear it now and for years to come. I often reach for my utility jacket instead of a sweater to take my outfit from casual to wow!
Top Things to Consider when Buying a Utility Jacket
- Fabric – Utility jackets come in all types of fabric from rayon that drapes, cotton that washes easily to wool with its stiff formality. Consider how you will use your jacket most. I prefer fabrics that don’t easily wrinkle as I tend to throw my jacket in my bag for just in case, often. I also prefer cotton for summer as I can wash it easily. If you plan to wear it more in cooler months, wool may be the perfect choice for you. Though a good light weight fabric can be layered easily under any winter coat.
- Details – Utility jackets come with varying degrees of detailing. I prefer a jacket which is subtle not costume-like. Big buttons, epilates and belts can contribute to a costume look but also can quickly date your piece. Though this type of trendy details can be appealing, they often don’t stand up to the test of time. Pick a jacket with hardware (zip, snaps, etc) that matches other major items in your wardrobe. I usually stick with brushed brass or silver which I think can be worn with any style jewelry or belt. I find bright gold more difficult to incorporate in my wardrobe but it might be the exact right color for you.
- Quality – Because a utility jacket will be a long term and much used piece in your wardrobe (I have two in my closet for more than five years), invest in the highest quality you can afford. A classic item is worth the investment as you will wear it again and again, keeping the CPW low. It isn’t always true, but spending a little more can mean a jacket of higher quality. I always inspect zippers for ease of use. I check pockets to make sure they are real and not just faux. I always look at the care instructions and decide whether I want to deal with any unusual wash requirements.
- Cut – You can find utility jackets in a multitude of different styles. I prefer a bit longer, almost, butt covering jacket but there are plenty of cropped options, if that is your jam. It probably goes without saying but the length of the coat can have a dramatic impact on how flattering it is on your body. For example, I cannot wear cropped styles because I have a short torso and long legs. Any time I wear a cropped jacket I look like I am wearing a child’s jacket. I also want a jacket to fall at the narrows part of my hips not the widest.
- Color – Another thing to consider is what color is best for your wardrobe. I have several utility jackets in olive green because it works nicely with all my black clothing. I also have jackets in black, camo and grey. Camouflage is another of my favorites, as you all know. A good camo jacket will go with just about anything. Treat it like a neutral. This season the utility jacket is trending and comes in a ton of colors including a buttery beige (if you are into the all-beige trend), pink, rust and denim. Pick a neutral which will go well with your existing wardrobe.
A good utility jacket is often found in a capsule wardrobe. If living minimally is your thing, use the ideas above to pick the specific one right for you. If you love clothes and are feeling this trend, I encourage you to pick up a utility jacket in olive and maybe another one of your favorite colors. I promise you won’t be disappointed. This jacket will be a consistent work horse in your wardrobe for years to come. Here are some of my recommendations (See photos below).
Top Utility Jacket Picks
- J.Crew Field Coat – Ok! Technically not quite a utility coat because of the quilting but I still love it! It is a perfect olive green. Has a nice chambray lining and is super warm. If your spring is on the cool side, this might be a great option for you.
- Cupcakes and Cashmere Soft Utility Jacket – This is a great lightweight utility jacket which looks fabulous both zipped or open. I love the detailing including darting and snaps on the sleeves which elevates this jacket to something special. The rayon is a bit tricky as it can easily wrinkle but I am keeping this one for summer.
- Sanctuary Camouflage Utility Jacket – This is my most loved jacket. I picked it up at least three years ago and wear it all the time. It is the perfect weight and never wrinkles. I travel with it everywhere and it is on my list of travel essentials. It is no longer available but I have linked some camouflage options below.
- Anthropologie Everyday Belted Moto Jacket – I love this moto style utility jacket. I usually avoid moto style jackets because I have big boobs and don’t want to feel so top heavy but this jacket has only a slight moto collar. It won’t be overwhelming for even the petite among us. The jacket is thicker than most on this list (except the J.Crew Field Coat), and is perfect for cooler spring weather. I wore mine on the plane and was perfectly warm. It looks great belted too.
- Velvet by Graham & Spencer Army Jacket – I’ve had this jacket in my closet for over five years. I wear it consistently throughout the summer. I love it so much I bought it in black too. It is perfect for cool summer nights and packs super easily. I have washed mine many times and the color remains vivid. I can’t say enough good things about this jacket. Velvet brought the same jacket back this year. So now is your chance to pick one up.
- Madewell Field Jacket – The one I am wearing is not longer available but I am linking one I think I like better. It comes in olive and black. Both are thicker canvas and pack and travel easily.
One last note: In most tops, I am a medium but in jackets I almost always size up to a large. I personally like my jackets a bit oversized and prefer, the option to fit a sweater under jacket. If you want a more fitted look purchase in your regular size. Next up, how to style your Utility Jacket.
