A guide to buying a lightweight jacket: finding the perfect jacket for spring and autumn
When it’s still a bit chilly in the morning but the sun is already shining by midday, it’s time for a true all-rounder: the lightweight jacket. In changeable weather, especially in spring and autumn, it’s the ideal companion. But which jacket is best suited to the period between seasons? And how do you find the perfect one for you? Whether it’s a classic trench coat, a sporty softshell jacket or a cool leather jacket, there’s a huge choice. In this guide, we’ll show you which styles work well as lightweight jackets and give you some useful care tips.
What is a lightweight jacket?
When the weather is too warm for a thick winter coat, but also not warm enough to go out without a coat it is recommended to get a lightweight jacket. Lightweight coats and jackets are the perfect choice for the transitional period between the seasons. They are often made out of light fabrics, which makes them ideal for mild to slightly cooler temperatures and also windy weather. Lightweight jackets are very practical as they are lighter than thick winter coats and take up less space, which means you can also pop them into a bag or your backpack.
When is a mid-season jacket useful?
A mid-season jacket is a lightweight jacket – in some cases wind- and water-repellent – that keeps you warm in temperatures ranging from around 10 to 16 °C. This makes it ideal for spring and autumn.
How to find the perfect fit
These types of jackets are great to wear either on a sunny spring day or on a rainy autumn day. There is a lightweight coat or jacket to suit every taste, whether you’re looking for a fashionable option or simply want something practical.
Trench coats: fashionable lightweight coats
Are you looking for a lightweight coat with a bit of style that will go well with a smart dress or a suit? This fashionable jacket is an undisputed fashion classic and it can be beautifully combined with a smart business look or elegant evening wear. Trench coats are timeless and they go with almost anything, which makes them a popular choice. Get a more casual or sporty look by wearing the jacket open, but if you prefer a smarter look you can simply button up the jacket and tie the waist belt around the jacket.
Bomber jackets and varsity jackets
Bomber jackets are hip-length with cuffs at the ends of the sleeves and the bottom part of the jacket has a similar cut to a blouse. You can wear varsity jackets and bomber jackets at different times of the year and they also suit a wide range of fashion styles. A bomber jacket in a light colour with a quirky pattern is a great choice, which can be combined with dresses and jumpsuits, whereas a varsity jacket has a more sporty look.
Denim jackets: casual lightweight jackets
It's hard to imagine a street style without denim jackets. There is a wide range of denim jackets to choose from such as short cut, blazer style or oversized. Combine a denim jacket with a T-shirt or a light blouse for a great spring outfit or combine it with a jumper or a hoodie for a great autumn outfit. Lined models with faux fur or teddy fleece are also fantastic for colder days.
Leather jackets: lightweight jackets for any style
Hardly any lightweight jacket is as versatile as the timelessly modern leather jacket: in the classic biker style, it has a cool, rock-chic look; in an oversized cut, it looks particularly sporty; whilst as a leather blouson, it is fashionable and lightweight. When it comes to versatility, the leather jacket is a real all-rounder: paired with jeans, a cosy jumper or a chic cocktail dress, the same leather jacket can create three different looks. With the right care, your leather jacket can serve as a versatile transitional jacket, seeing you through spring and autumn for many years to come.
Lightweight quilted jackets
Are you looking for a jacket that will keep you warm at the beginning of winter or on cool spring evenings? Getting a thicker lightweight jacket is a good idea to help keep you warm when it is still not cold enough to wear a thick winter coat. Lightweight quilted jackets keep you warm on days like these without making you break a sweat.
Softshell jackets for outdoor activities
Softshell jackets are great for autumn and spring as they will help to keep you warm and dry on wet and windy days. Softshell jackets usually have a showerproof coating. Compared to other waterproof hardshell jackets they offer better thermal regulation and breathability. These showerproof lightweight jackets are perfect for enthusiastic outdoor athletes, but their chic design also makes them suitable for everyday use.
Shackets: a great style to suit anyone
A shacket is a versatile hybrid that combines the look of a shirt with the practicality of a jacket. As a transitional layer, it’s a true all-rounder. Its lightweight, oversized fit and often rustic, cosy design make it an effortlessly casual choice for in-between weather. Shackets made from soft flannel or velvety corduroy provide just the right amount of warmth without feeling too bulky, making them perfect for changeable spring and autumn days.
What are the best materials to go for when buying a lightweight jacket?
Stylish and practical lightweight jackets can be made out of different materials. The most important thing to look out for is a lightweight yet robust design as this is suited to spring and autumn weather. The jacket should also be breathable, windproof and waterproof or showerproof. The exact properties of the different materials will vary, therefore, make sure to choose a lightweight jacket that goes with your lifestyle as well as your clothing style.
Cotton or blended fabrics - light, breathable and crease-resistant
Jackets made out of cotton or blended fabrics are particularly lightweight, breathable and they do not become creased easily. They're great if you're looking for something practical that you could wear almost every day and something that can be worn on cool sunny days as well as on an overcast day. However, lightweight cotton jackets will not keep you dry in a downpour. Therefore, you should always make sure to have an umbrella with you.
Faux leather – warm, weatherproof and long lasting
A faux leather jacket can block the wind and, depending on how it’s made, also offers protection from light rain. It’s advisable to waterproof your jacket before wearing it for the first time and to remove any traces of rain or snow with a microfibre cloth and, if necessary, a special care product. That way, you’ll be able to enjoy this lightweight jacket for a long time to come.
Wool – warm, smart and breathable
Lightweight coats and jackets made out of wool are perfect for autumn or for the last couple days of winter. They will also keep you warm on the first couple of cold days in winter. Wollen coats and jackets can be made out of pure new wool, merino or cashmere or have a synthetic fibre content that supports the breathable and weatherproof properties of the natural material.
Synthetic fibres - weatherproof, lightweight and suitable for outdoor use
Outdoor or softshell jackets are usually made out of synthetic fibres such as polyester or nylon. Careful processing and a protective coating (e.g. BIONIC-FINISH®ECO) ensure that jackets are weatherproof, but at the same time remain breathable and pleasantly light to wear. Jackets made out of synthetic materials are not only a good choice for athletes and people who enjoy being outdoors, but they are also a practical option for a sporty urban style that keeps you dry even in bad weather.
What is the best way to wash and take care of a lightweight jacket?
A lightweight jacket in a simple and timeless design can last you several years if you take good care of it. Most of the time it is enough just to air out your jacket if you have only worn it for a short period of time. However, if you have worn it whilst playing sports or if you have got some dirt on it then it is time to put your jacket into the wash.
To ensure that you enjoy your jacket regardless of the material for a longer time, there are a few basic washing tips that you can follow:
Fasten all the buttons and do up any zips before putting the item of clothing into the washing machine.
Turn your jacket inside out and/or put it in a wash bag.
Choose a gentle wash programme and wash on a low temperature.
Make sure to double check the care label on your lightweight jacket and also the materials it is made out of before washing it:
Washing a lightweight jacket made out of cotton
Such jackets are usually easy to clean and take care of. Make sure to use a colour detergent for dark jackets and a bio washing detergent for light jackets. For the best cleaning performance of light-coloured cotton jackets use a detergent that contains bleach.
Wash at 40 °C
Bio washing detergent or a colour washing detergent
Cotton wash programme
Washing a lightweight jacket made out of synthetic fibres or blended fabrics
You can pop these types of jackets into the washing machine without any hesitation, but make sure to put them on a gentle cycle. By using a low spin cycle, you can prevent your jacket from becoming creased. You can often save on ironing by hanging it up and leaving it to dry afterwards.
Wash at 30°C or at a maximum of 40 °C
Delicate detergent or a colour detergent
Choose a delicate wash cycle or a specific wash programme for synthetics
Wash a lightweight jacket made out of wool or blended fabrics containing wool
Items of clothing made out of wool need special care to ensure that they are long lasting. Fabric softener is generally not recommended for wool as it can damage the soft natural fibres. As a result, the jacket could lose its natural shape. After washing your woollen jacket wrap it in a large towel and wait until the towel has absorbed the excess moisture. After this, carefully pull your woollen jacket back into shape and then leave it to dry lying down.
Wash at 20°C or at a maximum of 30 °C
Delicate laundry detergent or a wool laundry detergent
Handwash or wash on a special wool programme
Washing tips for lightweight jackets made out of delicate materials
Lightweight jackets which have a showerproof coating will need to be cleaned and washed in a certain way to ensure that the properties of the material do not become damaged:
It is best to use a sports laundry detergent.
Wash your showerproof or softshell jacket at a maximum temperature of 30°C.
Avoid using fabric softeners and bleach as these can damage the showerproof fibres.
Do not put these types of jackets into the tumble dryer as the high temperatures can damage the fibres. Also avoid direct sunlight when hanging your jacket up on the washing line outside to dry to prevent the material from becoming porous.
If your lightweight jacket is made from a blend of wool and synthetics, you should always base your care routine on the most delicate material.
Find your perfect lightweight jacket now:
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The image sources in this text are in chronological order
Cover photo: neonshot – stock.adobe.com
All other images in the text: C&A