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Fall is synonymous with the light layer. Whether it’s a chore coat, an eye-catching patterned jacket, or a classic trench, we’ve found the best ones for this season. Trends may come and go, but finding a perfect jacket is forever.
Looking for more affordable, stylish clothes? Here’s what to wear when working, traveling, and playing — and picks for your kids, too.

We originally spotted this jacket during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, but it quickly sold out. We’re here to tell you it’s still available on the Bernardo site. It’s made of faux calf hair with tortoiseshell buttons — pure luxury — and it’s not too thick, so it’s a great transitional piece. ($209, Bernardo)

If you want to switch it up from your trusty denim jacket, a chore coat is a nice alternative. This one is made of a midweight cotton that feels lived-in right out of the bag. The corduroy collar gives it a pumpkin patch vibe that’s hard to resist. ($178, Aritzia)

Speaking of switching up your denim jacket, this one has a just-right oversized fit, is accented by a leather collar, and comes in a medium wash that’ll pair well with your favorite jeans. If you’re looking for matching jeans, try these. Canadian tuxedoes are in. ($118, Anthropologie)

If you’re looking for a jacket to invest in, this one has a relaxed moto silhouette that you’ll never get tired of. The thick leather is already distressed — so it’ll only get better with each wear — and it comes in several gorgeous colors. ($698, Free People)

Never underestimate a classic trench. You’ll grab this to elevate your standard jeans-and-a-tee outfit, or to top off an evening dress for your fall weddings. It’s water-repellent, so no matter your plans, you’ll look stylish and be protected from the blustery weather. ($168, Gap)

This jacket is editor-approved for daily walks, errands days, and coffee runs. It’s roomy, so you can layer it over a sweater, and has three zippered pockets to keep everything you need. We swear it gets softer with every wear, and the bright colors are great for zhuzhing up an all-black athleisure outfit. ($168, FP Movement)

The zip-up style of this jacket gives it a ’70s vibe we’re loving. It’s less oversized than most leather jackets, so it looks more polished with dresses and skirts. Or, wear it with high-waisted jeans, a belt, and a tee for an easy everyday outfit. ($110, Abercrombie & Fitch)

If you’re heading to an event in rainy weather, this long trench will keep your outfit from arriving wet and wrinkled. Even if it’s not raining and you’re headed out to get your first pumpkin spice latte of the season or taking a park stroll, it’ll keep you covered. ($79, Eloquii)

When we were growing up, our first denim jacket was from Old Navy. Years later, we’re still wearing their denim jackets, since the fit is just right, and it’s made of denim that lasts. While we used to wear it with their puppy tees, now we’re pairing it with a more grown-up version. ($27.99+, Old Navy)

This trench is small but mighty. It’ll keep your upper half shielded from rain and wind, while also looking stylish. It’s less of a commitment than a full trench coat, so if you want to dip your toe, this is it. We’re partial to the unique forest green. ($120, Abercrombie & Fitch)

While Nike has been making cool activewear for years, the brand is having a resurgence among the fashion crowd, especially when worn in unconventional ways. Throw this retro windbreaker on with a pair of jeans and loafers or even over a dress. The brown/black combo will make any outfit more chic. ($115, Urban Outfitters)

This blazer’s suede material is so soft and supple that you’ll never want to take it off, and the rich brown color is the epitome of autumn. It has a menswear-inspired fit, so it’s roomy enough to layer over a sweater when it really gets cold. ($99.99+, Madewell)

We tried on this chore coat in-store (field research), and it was an immediate need. The “Pink Fog” color — which is really more lilac — is so pretty. Since it’s technically a men’s jacket, it's slightly oversized without drowning us in fabric. The cotton-linen material is perfect for late summer-to-fall dressing. ($258, Nordstrom)

We haven’t stopped thinking about this jacket from the moment we saw it. It’s made of faux leather that’s covered in grommets, and the collarless silhouette gives it a trendy feel. It’s an entire outfit in itself, so you can throw it on with jeans and feel put together. ($168, Anthropologie)

We’d be remiss if we didn’t throw a more substantial jacket on this list. One reviewer says this wool-blend fabric is too warm for Florida, which tells us that it’s just right for fall everywhere else. The shorter length is great for wearing with jeans or trousers, and the herringbone print will never go out of style. ($169.99+, Nordstrom)
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