15 Most Popular Types of Jackets and Coats

Jackets and coats are essential items for everyone’s wardrobe and not only keep people warm but are ultra-stylish too. There are so many styles of jackets, some coming into fashion from time to time and others remaining as wardrobe staples for many years.

The word coat is one of the oldest words regarding clothing in the English language which dates back in history to the Middle Ages when it was written as cote and is derived from the Latin word cottus. Modern coats didn’t exist during that time but the word was used in the coat of mail which is a set of chain-mail armour.

In the 19^th century, coats were categorised by undercoats and overcoats showing that the word itself could once denote an outer layer of clothing as well as an inner layer of clothing; now a coat refers to an outer garment.

Here are the fifteen most popular types of jackets and coats which are fashionable but have useful functions too:

1. Denim Jacket

Probably one of the most popular types of jackets, denim jackets can be paired with almost anything and can be worn all year round. The first denim jacket was created by Levi Strauss in 1880, Levi’s is still the most famous brand of denim clothing today and their clothes are worn by people of all different ages from all around the world.

2. Bomber Jacket

Originally known as a flight jacket, the bomber jacket has quite an interesting history. Bomber jackets were originally made for US Air Force pilots but they became a very popular trend; although the first flight jackets were made from leather, more recent versions and made from nylon providing a modern take on the classic style.

3. Harrington Jacket

Sometimes known as a blouson jacket, the Harrington jacket slightly resembles a bomber jacket but has a more tailored fit with a folded, smart collar. This makes the Harrington a sort of “formal” bomber jacket.

4. Parka

Designed to withstand the cold, parka jackets are stuffed with down (cheaper versions use synthetic fibre) and are hip-length. The casual design makes the parka jacket a great option for everyday wear during the winter months. Parkas are super stylish too, most feature a fur hood, and wearing one often conjures up images of snowy landscapes and huskies!

5. Overcoat

One of the most famous British overcois brands is Crombie and this has led to most overcoats being called Crombie coats although most of them aren’t! Overcoats are typically three-quarter length and are normally made of wool with a velvet collar. Their smart design and tailored fit make overcoats perfect for formal occasions.

6. Trench Coat

Originally made for army officers but then tailored for soldiers in the trenches during the First World War, the trench coat, like the bomber jacket, is another garment with military origins. The trench coat typically hangs down to the knees and is often worn during the autumn and winter.

7. Trucker Jacket

Often confused with a bomber jacket due to the similar design, a trucker jacket is often made from denim and sometimes even suede. Trucker jackets make great casual wear.

8. Biker Jacket

A short, leather jacket, the biker jacket is the ultimate symbol of rebellion and is a very stylish addition to any wardrobe. It doesn’t matter if you aren’t a motorcyclist as biker jackets are worn by people of all ages and they are unisex too.

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9. Anorak

Great for the rainy weather, anoraks are pull-over jackets often featuring a half zip and are made from waterproof materials. They also have a hood with a drawstring making this jacket perfect for keeping the rain out.

10. Pea Jacket

Originally worn by sailors, pea jackets or pea coats are commonly worn by navy officers all around the world. That doesn’t go to say that they are just meant to be worn out at sea as a pea-jacket can complement a smart, formal outfit.

11. Hooded Jacket

The must-have wardrobe staple, a hooded jacket is the only way to keep the body warm and your hair dry in the rain. There is a large range available and it’s down to personal preference.

12. Track Jacket

The track jacket gives a stylish but sporty look and is ideal for wearing when out for a jog. Pair it with matching track pants for the complete athletic look or wear it with jeans for a cool, athleisure outfit. Tracksuit jackets have been a popular icon of fashion throughout the modern ages.

13. Puffer Jacket

Puffer jackets are typically quilted and stuffed with down providing warmth and keeping the wind out. They were originally known as eiderdown coats and were worn during mountaineering expeditions but have recently been adapted purely for fashion.

14. Shearling Jacket

Shearling jackets are your best friend during the winter as the interior is made from sheep’s wool keeping you warm and cosy. The exterior is normally made from suede but features a woolly lining for style.

15. Dinner Jacket

Should this be on this list? Of course, it should! Dinner jackets or “black tie” refers to an all-black suit with a white shirt and black tie. The set is commonly known as a dinner suit and is worn during formal events and posh dinner parties; it is worn by members of the Royal family but everyone else can wear it too. If you are looking to dress up for a formal dinner, invest in a dinner jacket.

Once you own an evening gown, custom pins are a great next step. Integrate your creative ideas into custom pins, or let a professional design a unique style for you. Wearing pins on the neckline is the icing on the cake, making your evening dress more refined in detail and not looking like everyone else's style.

There are many kinds of jackets; the above list features the most popular varieties in an attempt to inspire and potentially help you pick the right jacket for your needs.

Choosing a jacket can be a very personal thing, some people buy one jacket and they wear it for years, whilst others own many jackets due to fast-changing trends or simply for use on different occasions.

We hope after reading this post you will be inspired to either go through your wardrobe and give an old jacket some TLC or even invest in a new jacket that makes you look smart and free great when you're out and about.