The Best Cozy, Lightweight Fall Jackets for Chilly Days Ahead

woman wearing Everlane quilted lightweight fall jacket

Last week, David and I started planning our anniversary weekend, and we always make a point to have a conversation about what we want the trip to be like. But it’s a little silly because our collective answer is usually the same: hearty meals, outdoorsy activities, and, undoubtedly, somewhere where fall jacket weather and foliage are in full swing!

And I say fall jacket weather on purpose because, seriously, I love fall jackets. They’re a sign of the season, and there’s something special about the short-lived window of temperatures that aren’t cold enough for a thick coat yet are crisp enough for an extra layer. Think bonfires, football games, evening walks—a jacket represents the best parts of fall!

There are dozens of beautiful lightweight jackets to choose from this year, but I’ve narrowed it down to 16 of the very best fall jackets below. And whether you love sherpas, blazers, quilted jackets, or hoodies, you’ll find something to love here. Enjoy!

woman wearing fall jacket with jeans and sneakers
blogger wearing fall jacket with crewneck sweater and jeans

1. Sherpa Jackets

Sherpa, shearling, and fleece jackets are so nice to have on hand for casual fall outings, like a quick errand or Saturday morning brunch. This is my top sherpa pick for the 2022 season. I have it in brown love wearing it with a sweater, jeans, and sneakers.

2. Blazers

Can you ever have enough beautiful blazers? They’re one of the fall essentials I recommend for every wardrobe because they’re incredibly versatile and add that little something that takes a fall look from cute to refined. This is my top blazer pick for the 2022 season.

3. Trench Coats

A trench isn’t just for spring, especially if summer hangs on for dear life where you live and a heavy anorak jacket isn’t necessary! A double-breasted trench in an autumnal tone like camel, olive, burgundy, or brown is perfect for fall. This is my top trench coat pick for fall 2022.

4. Shackets

Shirt jackets are here to say, and thankfully they’re now available in a wide variety of cuts (tailored and oversized), colors (neutral, print), and fabrics (denim, teddy, etc.) to suit anyone’s preferences. This unique, sage green shacket is my pick for fall 2022, but it also comes in camel if neutrals are your thing.

5. Quilted Jackets

I always feel like I’m channeling Kate Middleton meets English equestrian with this style, and it’s a fun one to browse because there’s everything out there from the iconic Burberry barn jacket to this under-$100 Amazon option.

6. Utility Jackets

How do you feel about utility jackets? I have mixed emotions. In one way, I love their simplicity, and in another way, I find the color restricting. Thankfully, there are now non-olive styles, like this hooded drawstring option I bought on Amazon last year and this option at Banana Republic.

7. Moto Jackets

I’ve made the case for moto jackets before, and if you’re convinced, here are four that will fit seamlessly into your fall wardrobe—two leather, two suede. This is my top pick for 2022. I have it in beige and it is one of my most-worn pieces of outerwear in spring and fall.

8. Denim Jackets

Jean jackets are nice in the transitional weeks for bridging the gap between summer and fall looks. I love layering mine over tank tops, skirts, and dresses. They’re easy to throw over your shoulders when it’s only chilly in the morning and evening. The Madewell jean jacket has been my most-worn for many years! Also love it in black for fall.

blogger fall jacket outfit
woman wearing quilted fall jacket with crewneck sweater, straight leg jeans, and golden goose sneakers

Outfit Details: Everlane Jacket (similar here), Everlane Sweater (similar here), BlankNYC Jeans, Golden Goose Sneakers (similar here)

Shop More of The Best Fall Jackets of 2022

For more fall jackets and fall outfit inspiration, make sure you’re following along on Instagram and in the LIKEtoKNOW.it shopping app, where I share my daily looks, style picks, and styling ideas.

So, What’s the Best Fall Jacket for You?

There you have it  If you’re still having trouble deciding between the outerwear styles, try narrowing down by weather and activity:

  • Women in warmer climates can do well with a denim jacket, utility jacket, or trench coat through early November.
  • If you live in a climate where fall arrives sooner, a sherpa or shearling jacket will keep you cozy as the temperatures drop.
  • If you like to dress up or work in a setting with professional dress, a blazer or classic trench coat will go further for your fall wardrobe.
  • If fall quickly transitions into winter where you are, the right move might be to invest in something that’s technically a winter coat, like faux fur coat, wool blend peacoat, parka, or long puffer coat.