If a plain tee and jeans seem too bland, consider topping them with a jacket. Jackets are versatile apparel that can change an entire outfit. Some types of jackets for men are structured, whereas others are relaxed. Regardless, there’s a jacket you can match with every single top.
These jackets for men are a wardrobe must-have. You can consider these your ticket to timeless style. Not only do they protect you from harsh weather, but they also save your outfits. Adding jackets to your brand collection also allows customers to match their aesthetic and taste.
Jackets are essential to outfits. It’s what ties the look together! That’s why we’ve compiled everything you need to know about different types of jackets for men. Ranging from jacket textures, origins, and how to style them.
Different Types of Jackets for Men
There are several jackets for men to choose from. Let your body style the clothes, not vice versa! Here are different types of jackets for men that suit your aesthetic.
1. Bomber Jacket
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Bomber jackets are a fashion goldmine. They’re versatile, easy to style, and come in different shapes. Whether you have the body shape of an inverted triangle or a square, you’ll still look your best.
These types of jackets for men appeared in late-1950 Europe. Earlier versions of bomber jackets added features like sealskin and a fur collar. Modern bomber jackets have several variations, including cotton, nylon, silk, fleece jackets, wool, and other materials.
Wear your bomber jacket over a hoodie to achieve a streetwear aesthetic. The combination and warmth this gives serve as a timeless outfit. Then, you can accessorize this bomber jacket outfit with jewelry and a snapback.
2. Flight Jacket
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The flight jacket traces its roots to pilots in the military. These types of jackets for men feature several variations in leather and nylon. Flight jackets are also longer, so you can tell them apart from the other jackets featured in this article.
The first flight jackets were heavy because of their leather material. Fabrics like sheepskin, fur, and tough leather protected pilots from cold winter nights.
Creating the best flight jacket outfit depends on your accessories. You can pair your flight jacket with leather gloves and a cashmere scarf for formal wear. Then, accessorize with a beret if you feel like sitting in a cafe and eating a croissant.
3. Leather Jacket
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The first leather jackets had sheepskin linings. These helped pilots stay warm during missions. Leather jackets are timeless wardrobe pieces. Later, they became a rock and roll staple and became rampant after Michael Jackson’s Thriller music video.
The first leather jackets were for personnel working in harsh weather conditions. There wasn’t a specific leather used, and most of these jackets were genuine animal skin.
Partner your leather jacket with boots since these jackets have a punk-rock vibe. The best styles that go with this men’s jacket are grunge. So avoid wearing dress pants, shirts, and shoes. Or, go for rugged denim to match the vibe.
4. Nylon and Polyester Bombers Jackets
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Nylon and polyester bombers are popular hot sellers for a lot of menswear brands. These types of jackets for men are best for laid-back and casual days. They feel snug and comfortable to wear. Bomber jackets like these are water-resistant. That way, you’ll stay worry-free even if it rains.
Jet pilots needed warmth from the cold, and leather jackets weren’t doing the job. Nylon and polyester bomber jackets could withstand cold climates at higher altitudes.
You can wear a nylon and polyester bomber jacket with faded denim and a plain cotton shirt. Sporting a combination like this looks athletic and is excellent for running errands with style.
5. Varsity Jacket
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Varsity jackets date back to the trend of letterman sweaters. Ivy League students were rocking the casual athlete look with these jackets. The varsity jacket is also often associated with jocks and preppy students.
Letterman or varsity jackets date back to 1865 when the Harvard University baseball team sewed an H to their jackets. They were made of wool, had leather sleeves, and had chenille lettering.
You can pair a linen shirt and pants with a varsity jacket to level the outfit up. Dressing this combination up creates a smart-casual look. Then, you can accessorize with a leather handbag and wear glasses.
6. Puffer Jackets
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Eddie Bauer designed the first puffer jacket after an incident with his wool coat. He created the puffer jacket with balloon fabric and eiderdown. Now, these types of jackets for men have several variations, including:
- Blended polyester
- Ripstop nylon
- Down insulation
- Synthetic fibers
- Fleece
- Quilt batting
Puffer jackets are a fashion statement. Most of these jackets for men come in striking colors that stand out in fashion. But it also came with classic neutrals you can style with almost anything in your closet.
There are several variations of puffer jackets, but the most interesting is ripstop nylon. These jackets for men are heavy-wear.
7. Rain Jackets and Rain Coats
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The first rain jackets date back to ancient China when they made raincoats from straw or grass. Modern raincoats now use fabrics like cotton, polyester, nylon, or rayon.
Modern rain jackets insulate heat. And since gore-tex material has moisture-wicking properties, you’ll stay dry and fresh. They are breathable and airy, keeping you feeling fresh the entire day.
Achieving an athletic look is easy with rain jackets. Wear your gym shorts and a muscle tank to feel the vibe. Then, layer on your raincoat and accessorize with headphones.
8. Fleece Jacket
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Yvon Chouinard wanted to develop a synthetic alternative to wool jackets. His final product was a soft, fuzzy fabric made by knitting polyester fibers. Polyethylene terephthalate is a synthetic polyester popular with fleece jackets.
The fleece jacket can elevate casual trips to the store. You can pair these men’s jackets with dark-washed denim and a plain turtleneck. Then, you can accessorize your outfit with Chelsea boots and sunglasses.
9. Blazers
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You can wear blazers formally and casually. These jackets come in different variations and can be tweed, flannel, or linen-made. The first blazers were loose and cut from flannel. It kept rowers from freezing during training or competitions. They also had intricate designs so that others could see them from afar.
When wearing blazers, you should match them to the occasion. The blazer needs to be more structured if you’re going to a formal event. But if you’re going shopping, a looser style may be appropriate.
Colorful printed blazers are also available for fashion experiments. If you want to explore your interests, consider trying something new.
10. Windbreakers
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Get ready to wind down with windbreakers, because that’s what these men’s jackets do. These jackets for men are lightweight and synthetic, made from polyester and nylon. The best windbreakers keep you warm, protected, and dry.
Gabardine was one of the fabrics used for windbreakers. Modern windbreakers have nylon, polyester, and blended cotton versions. These types of jackets for men are interchangeable with parkas and anoraks because of their similar materials.
Pairing your windbreaker with jeans and a T-shirt will give you a casual look. But wearing your windbreaker with a shirt and dress pants adds to your professionalism. Anyway, you’ll look fancy while staying comfortable.
11. Suit Jacket
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If there’s one thing about suit jackets, they look good on everyone. Made from several fabrics, you’ll have one to match every occasion. These menswear staples have different forms and fits. If you’re looking for a suit jacket, consider how it fits your body.
These types of jackets for men were lounge suits in the 19th century. These types of jackets for men were either wool, cotton, linen, or tweed.
When going to formal events, plain-colored suit jackets were more appropriate. But if you’re going somewhere festive or casual, use patterns and prints. Then, you can accessorize with cufflinks or a pocket square.
12. Harrington Jacket
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The Harrington jacket became a golfer’s essential. It kept wearers dry and comfortable while scoring holes in them. Now, you can see these types of jackets for men worn everywhere. Its fabric ranges from polyester to suede, so you can choose the jacket that fits you best.
In 1930, in rainy Manchester, the Miller Brothers released the first Harrington jacket. Now, several variations include cotton, polyester, and suede Harrington jackets.
Formal events will be more fun with a touch of color! Wear a midnight blue dress shirt and pants to contrast the vibrant accents.
13. Smoking Jacket
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When you’ve seen movies featuring the wealthiest people, you’re familiar with smoking jackets. It features a shawl collar, turn-up cuffs, and a tie belt. Wearing the smoking jacket makes you feel at home because of the luxurious and fancy material.
Smoking jackets are luxurious jackets made from velvet, silk, or merino. It was called the tobacco jacket in 1850 because the thick fabric absorbs smoke and catches ash.
Parties are dull without accessories! That’s why sliding a silk pocket square into the smoking jacket matches the quilted designs. Then, polish your leather shoes and head to the party. The night is young, so wear these types of jackets for men.
14. Denim Jacket
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Denim jackets are stylish and versatile add-ons to your closet. These jackets usually come in blue or denim. You can elevate your casual outfit by slipping into one. And if you prefer comfort, you can also pair this with a pullover hoodie.
The first denim jacket of 1810 is in the German Historical Commission of Rhineland. Denim fabrics refer to cotton twill and are made popular by Levi Strauss.
Feel free to experiment with denim jackets to add edginess to your look. You can wear a distressed denim jacket for a rugged look. Or, you can choose an embroidered denim jacket to make a fashion statement. Pair these with a crewneck sweater and pants to match the outfit.
15. Mackintosh
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A classic Mackintosh jacket features a rubberized texture with a soft lining inside. They range in color, but you’ll commonly see them in navy or beige. These jackets for men provide warmth and comfort because of the soft material.
The Mackintosh jacket dates back to 1824, made by Robert Mackintosh. The jacket is bonded cotton material and either rubberized or laminated.
The key to styling a Mackintosh jacket is simplicity and comfort. That said, layering it with a cardigan and adding accessories tie the look together. Then, wear a cotton sweater, black denim pants, and boots to finish the ensemble.
16. Track Jacket
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Track jackets feel soft, durable, and stretchy. If you’re fond of watching sports or athletic events, you’ve seen these men’s jackets on the field. Their material can range from spandex to polyester and vary in thickness.
1970 was the best year for velour track jackets and sportswear. Bruce Lee wore these jackets for men once and became a sensation. Modern versions are nylon, cotton, or terry cloth.
You can style the track jacket casually if you want. Accessorize it and wear your favorite baseball cap to keep the relaxed aesthetic. Or you can wear a beanie with your favorite shirt and sweatpants for a laid-back look.
17. Quilted Jacket
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Few often mistake the puff jacket for a quilted jacket or vice versa. Although these jackets look similar, you can distinguish the two. The quilted one features diamond-like stitching on the exterior, whereas the puff jacket “puffs up” in between stitching.
Quilted jackets have bonded cotton fabrics, and Steve Guyler introduced the concept of these jackets for men in 1965.
You can accessorize leather gloves with the quilted jacket for a touch of sophistication. Then, wear your favorite boots and comfortable trousers to stay snug all day.
18. Biker Jacket
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If you prefer riding your motorcycle in style, biker jackets are perfect for you. Their durable and hard-wearing material can resist damage from regular use. These sturdy biker jackets are high-quality and made from cowhide or lamb leather.
The Schott brothers introduced a leather jacket to their company in 1913 but released their biker jackets for Harley Davidson in 1928.
Wear a flannel shirt underneath your biker jacket for warmth and style. Then, you can accessorize with a bandana and sunglasses to achieve the biker aesthetic.
19. Technical Jacket
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Technical jackets are best for the outdoors. They coat these jackets with polyurethane, so that’s why they are breathable even though they’re waterproof. The technical jacket features mesh-lined pockets that flow air throughout. So you’ll stay comfortable and feel fresh.
Technical jackets originate from military wear. Now there are nylon, polyester, Gore-tex, wool, and synthetic versions.
Wear a technical jacket over a sweater and denim pants for a practical feel. You can also accessorize the jacket by slinging your sunglasses over its pocket. Then, pair your outfit with combat boots to head out the door.
20. Athletic Jacket
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Like other sporty jackets, the athletic jacket wicks away moisture. That means you won’t be drenched in sweat when you’re on the court. These jackets often comprise spandex or polyester material.
Athletic jackets have several possibilities for where they come from, and they are closely tied to track and sports jackets. Some of these types of jackets for men include polyester, nylon, spandex, corduroy, and wool.
You can wear an athletic jacket with basketball shorts for a sporty look. Add your high-cut sneakers and accessorize with a forehead band. If you want, you can add wristbands to get the full effect.
21. Trucker Jacket
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Trucker jackets now have several variations compared to their denim counterparts. There are ones made from leather, corduroy, and canvas. These jackets can withstand rugged conditions and are durable enough for any adventure.
The trucker jacket can fit snugly or loosely, so choose one you feel comfortable wearing. You can spot a trucker jacket easily. When you see chest pockets and adjustable waist tabs, that’s one.
Pair your trucker jacket with a button-down shirt and dress pants to elevate your formal appearance. Choose a sleeker trucker jacket to match your suit. Remember, some fabrics go well, and others don’t. So mix those textiles.
22. Shirt Jacket
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Shirt jackets combine the style of one and the functionality of another. These jackets feature buttons that close and average-sized pockets. The shirt jacket’s garment also feels soft and flexible since it is a cotton blend. Shackets closely link to the bleu de travail in late 19th-century France. These are made from hard-wearing canvas or cotton.
Shirt jackets are easy to wear; you can keep it simple by pairing them with joggers or dress up by pairing them with denim. Accessories bring depth to your outfit, so add a pop of color with your scarf or hat.
23. Chore Jacket
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Chore jackets are the perfect workwear jacket. They’re functional, stylish, and made from durable materials. If you’ve seen the jackets that gardeners and woodworkers wear, you’re familiar with a chore jacket.
The chore jacket has a boxy fit and features large pockets. It’s perfect for outdoor activities and also for casual getaways. It was in 19th-century France that chore jackets were cotton-dill and moleskin-made.
Wear utility pants and a cotton tee underneath your chore shirt to feel comfortable. Then, pair your outfit with combat boots to add flair to your appearance. If you want, you can accessorize by tying a bandana to your forehead.
24. Field Jacket
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Field jackets offer versatility and style in one. It has multiple pockets and fits snugly on the body. You can go on hiking or camping trips without compromising functionality. These jackets are the definition of multitasking.
These jackets are a great addition to your wardrobe. The 1941 combat uniform had several alterations. Now, field jackets are made from blended sateen, cotton, and polyester.
Layer a sweater under the field jacket to feel warm and comfortable during colder days. Then, accessorize with a watch and sunglasses for added style.
25. Moto Jacket
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After a tiring week, a moto jacket can accompany you to a weekend night out. These jackets can be faux or genuine leather, adding a spicy touch to your outfit. It features zippers that are perfect for any bustling venue.
The first moto jackets appeared in 1913. It was leather-denim apparel that was more sleek and fitted. It used to be essential for motorcycle riders. Now, moto jackets are a fashion statement you can add to your wardrobe.
Whether going for cocktails or partying on the dancefloor, there’s an outfit for every gimmick. So wear a comfortable poplin shirt, linen pants, and a moto jacket to keep the party going.
26. Shearling Jacket
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Shearling jackets are your go-to men’s wear when it’s cold. These jackets appear shiny because of their leather coats and feature a soft lining made from shearling. The extra shine and soft interior give you the best of both worlds: comfort and style.
World War I pilots enjoyed the warmth of shearling jackets. These types of jackets for men are either sheep or lambskin, with wool still attached.
Sticking with neutral colors and basic shapes will accentuate your jacket, making it the centerpiece of your attire. A plain-colored shirt and dark-washed denim are perfect when combined. Add a shearling jacket to make your outfit pop, and accessorize with a satchel and sneakers.
27. Coach Jacket
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Coach jackets feel light because of their nylon-blended material. These jackets feature a fold-over collar, snap closures, and slash pockets that make them stand out. American coaches wore these jackets to be recognizable on the field.
You can keep the ensemble simple and casual by wearing your coach jacket over a plain tee and jeans. Then, accessorize with a thick scarf or a fedora for extra sizzle.
28. Anorak
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Anoraks are waterproof and hooded pullovers that feature a closed front. These were traditionally made from caribou, or seal skin since they used it for hunting in the Arctic. These jackets are perfect for colder weather. Now, anoraks can be casual everyday wear.
Anoraks come in bright and neutral colors, so play around with them. Choose a brighter jacket to add a pop to your outfit, or opt for a neutral one to look classic. Then, balance your attire with a thick scarf.
29. Suede Jacket
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Suede jackets are perfect for sunny days. These jackets feel soft and luxurious but they are also lightweight and breathable. But since suede is sensitive, touch up your jacket with protector spray and use a suede brush to care for it.
Suede jackets have two different stories of where they came from. First, Swedish tanners in the 18th century discovered they could use the underside of hides, revealing a soft fabric underneath. The second story traces back to North American Indians with advanced tanning methods.
The suede jacket adds a subtle but sophisticated touch to your outfit. Its texture is an intriguing part of the outfit, and you’ll look your best without looking bold. These are best worn with a dress shirt and pants. Then, wear a tie that matches your jacket, and you look dashing.
Conclusion
Whether you dress a jacket up or down, it completes the outfit without exaggerating anything. There are dozens of types of jackets for men to choose from, so get some for your collection.
If you want to take your brand to new heights and spice up your collection with your own jacket designs, don’t hesitate to contact us.
