As fall grows closer and closer, we’re beginning to evaluate our cool-weather wardrobes, making a mental list of what we need for fall 2023 and what we can remove from our closets altogether. And while there are plenty of footwear and handbag trends to embrace this season, outerwear is one of our favorite pieces to experiment with come fall. So to find out the top jacket and outwear trends of fall 2023, we chatted with a few fashion experts—including buyers and one very well-dressed stylist. Ahead, find the fall 2023 jacket trends they expect we’ll see everywhere in the months to come.
Warm Browns
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As popular as oversize blazers with padded shoulders have become, for fall 2023, Kate Bellman, Nordstrom’s Women’s Managing Fashion Editor, predicts that the tailored blazer (like the Veronica Beard Miller Dickey Jacket, $695) will soar to new heights. “The absolute essential third layer for fall is the tailored blazer,” she assures us. “Heading into this next season, look for updates that are structured and fitted, with a defined waist and sharp shoulders.”
Styling Tip: Don’t pigeonhole your blazer to businesswear alone—the silhouette pairs well with everything. “The blazer is the most versatile item in your closet and works equally as well with a pair of tailored trousers for the return to the office as it does paired with wide-leg jeans for your go-to weekend wardrobe,” Bellman says.
Meet the Experts
- Audree Kate López is a celebrity stylist based in New York City and the founder of Audree Kate Studios.
- Kate Bellman is the women’s managing fashion editor for Nordstrom.
- Elizabeth Carson is Anthropologie’s jackets and outerwear buyer.
Colorful Faux Leather
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Once the weather starts to really cool off, you’ll be glad to know that colorful, fun, furry, and/or fuzzy silhouettes are in for 2023. “Maximalists can rejoice because statement coats are here to stay,” López says.
When picking out a statement jacket or coat, López says to start with your favorite color. Mix in embellishments and/or add texture with quilted accents or a print like a houndstooth or plaid. (We love the look of the FARM Rio Crochet Denim Jacket, $285) “[Your jacket will be] a conversation starter and will brighten up any gloomy or cold days,” she assures us.
Styling Tip: “In my personal opinion, statement jackets and coats make getting dressed for colder weather so much easier,” López reveals. “You can layer neutrals, jeans, or a head-to-toe black uniform and toss on a fun coat and you instantly elevate your look from basic to trendsetter.”
Modern Bombers
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Colorful leather may be a part of the fall fashion forecast, but classic black leather remains a stylish choice. “The tough biker jacket keeps leather and faux leather at the forefront as a key material and is revamped with distressed finishes, statement zips, and hardware,” Bellman says. “Shearling and faux-fur trim move these styles into colder temps by providing extra textural details.” (A prime example? The AllSaints Balfren Gold Leather Bike Jacket, $529.)
Styling Tip: For a head-turning look, Bellman says to pair your biker chic jacket with a pleated miniskirt or menswear-inspired plaid pants for “a tough and tailored juxtaposition.”
Built-In Scarves
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Hoping to bring summer’s quiet luxury trend into fall? Carson says opting for a tweed jacket (such as the Steve Madden Zoey Jacket, $122) will help you do just that. “We can’t get enough of all things Sofia Richie Grainge,” she exclaims, promoting tweed jackets as the perfect fall outerwear choice for those looking to nab her style.
Styling Tip: Tweed jackets can be worn with a variety of outfits. “Pair your tweed with an easy tee, wide-leg denim, and flats for a cool ‘on the go’ outfit or invest in a matching set for a polished look,” Carson says. “Either way, you’ll be looking effortlessly chic!”
Cargo Accents
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A trend we’ve seen progress throughout the year involves increasing length. Where super-cropped silhouettes have dominated fashion trends the past few years, this year, both López and Carson are noticing a shift toward maxi silhouettes. And when it comes to outerwear for fall, that means trenches are in. “We’re loving longer lengths, so a classic trench coat is a no-brainer for the season,” Carson says.
While all trenches are fair game for fall 2023, López says that black leather trenches (like the Bardot Vegan Leather Trench, $199) are particularly trendy. “In addition to the revival of Y2K and 2010s fashion, The Matrix aesthetic has made its comeback over the past couple of years,” she explains, noting that along with silver accessories and new-age sunglasses, black leather trenches are part of the equation. “This is the newest iteration of the classic tan trench—think Burberry-meets–fashion cool girl. This is the coat for the minimalist, street style–chic city gal on the go. The leather is durable, timeless, and effortless, and the long trench length will be versatile for years to come.”
Styling Tip: To lean into The Matrix aesthetic, López says to layer your black leather trench over a fitted black turtleneck and black jeans or leather pants. Complete the look with a pair of cowboy boots or knee-high boots for what she calls a “sexy, effortless, put-together look.” Another option? “Trenches allow for proportion play in styling—remix your look and try wearing over a minidress or skirt or slouchy trousers,” Carson suggests.
Quilted Details
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Add a touch of whimsy to your fall wardrobe with a quilted jacket (such as the Free People Chloe Jacket, $198). “The quilted jacket is the perfect transitional style as the temperature starts to drop,” Bellman says. “Both lightweight and breathable, the quilted jacket has transitioned from traditional, heritage field styles to modern everyday essentials.” While old-school green and tan quilted jackets are in style for fall 2023, all colors and prints are suitable when adopting a quilted jacket for the cooler months ahead. “Bold colors and pop pastels bring the quilted jacket from town and country to downtown chic,” Bellman says.
Styling Tip: Quilted jackets are on the more casual end of the spectrum. Try pairing your silhouette with your favorite blue jeans and a fitted turtleneck for a timeless approach to the newly updated style.
The Top Fall 2023 Handbag Trends Include Glitzy Baguettes and Slouchy Silhouettes
