Why Have a Jacket in Your Cupboard?
A well-made jacket is an essential piece that adds to your wardrobe in a multitude of ways.
My husband, at last count has 17 jackets and they cover almost all the categories I mention below. We probably need to do a clean-out as some are no longer worn due to our climate, the stage of his career and physicality. But you never know when we might travel to a cold wet country again and need that thick wool coat.
He is a sentimental hoarder and keeps things for years. He put a t-shirt on the other day that was nearly 30 years old.
But having just one jacket in your cupboard means you'll always be prepared for various occasions. A jacket in your cupboard adds three things:
- Versatility
- Layering
- Timeless Style
Which Jacket to Choose To Have In Your Cupboard
Now you have decided that it would be a good idea to add a jacket into the mix, which one should you add?
It depends on your desired purpose, your style and your climate. Not every style is going to work for you. Here are five (5) of the top men’s jacket styles to consider:
1. The Bomber Jacket
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Versatility: Great for casual and streetwear looks but the Bomber Jacket can also be dressed up for a more contemporary, sporty style.
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Why It’s Essential: Its simple, sleek design pairs well with almost anything, from jeans to chinos.
2. The Blazer
• Versatility: A blazer can go from a formal business setting to a casual outing when paired with jeans or a t-shirt.
• Why It’s Essential: A tailored blazer instantly lifts your look for interviews, meetings, or smart-casual events. When in doubt I believe in overdressing rather than underdressing.
3. The Denim Jacket
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Versatility: The traditional ‘Levi style’ denim jacket is considered a timeless piece that works for every season, whether worn with a t-shirt in the summer or layered with a hoodie in the winter.
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Why It’s Essential: Perfect for laid-back days, and it gets better with age, adding character and style to your wardrobe.
4. The Modern Field or Chore Jacket
This style defines the Lounge Jacket I have in the shop.
I called it a lounge jacket because it is comfortable (not to be confused with the more formal tuxedo looking lounge jacket). I also asked my customers what I should call my jacket pattern and this is the name they chose so I ran with it.
It has room to move with lots of storage (pockets). So yes you can do chores in it like gardening or tinkering in the shed but you can also lounge around in your garden in it too.
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Versatility: Yes it is!! Functional and stylish, this jacket is perfect for outdoor activities or as a smart-casual option for day-to-day wear.
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Why It’s Essential: With plenty of pockets and a relaxed fit, it’s perfect for weekend wear, working on hobbies, or running errands.
5. The Overcoat
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Versatility: A classic longer cut winter coat that’s perfect for layering. They look just as good over a navy suit to a pair of jeans.
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Why It’s Essential: This stylish, warm outerwear piece adds sophistication and works well for both business and leisure.
What Fabric Type To Make Your Jacket Out Of?
Some suggest you can’t wear the Chore style coat out at night, because it is for well... choring. But if you get the fabric right then you can use it for casual day and night activities.
When it comes to fabric choices, the sky’s the limit! Another sustainability benefit of being able to sew your own clothes. One pattern, multiple purposes.
But when you have too much choice sometimes making a decision gets too hard, so we don’t choose anything at all. So here are 9 modern fabric types you can use to make your jacket. I have tried to match each fabric to different occasions and lifestyles:
1. Waxed Canvas (Outdoors)
- Occasion: Casual outdoor activities, hiking, or weekend trips.
- Features: Water-resistant and durable, perfect for rugged adventures.
2. Denim (Casual/All-Season)
- Occasion: Everyday wear, casual outings, or lunch with friends (light to dark denim).
- Features: Timeless, durable, and comfortable for any casual occasion.
3. Corduroy (Casual/Autumn-Winter)
- Occasion: Fall and winter get-togethers, relaxed family gatherings.
- Features: Soft, warm, and cozy—ideal for colder weather.
4. Linen Blend (Refined/All-Season)
- Occasion: Summer vacations, semi-formal gatherings, or garden parties.
- Features: Lightweight, breathable, and naturally elegant.
5. Tweed Wool Blend (Refined/Winter)
- Occasion: Winter events, evening dinners, or casual office settings.
- Features: Warm and stylish, a perfect choice for cooler months.
6. Stretch Cotton Twill (Casual/All-Season)
- Occasion: Casual workdays, weekends, or brunch with friends.
- Features: Comfortable, durable, and slightly stretchy for movement.
7. Hemp Canvas (Casual/Outdoors)
- Occasion: Outdoor activities, gardening, or casual social gatherings.
- Features: Durable, breathable, and eco-friendly.
8. Fleece-Lined Wool (Casual/Winter)
- Occasion: Cold-weather outdoor events, hiking, or winter trips.
- Features: Warm and cozy, perfect for keeping the chill at bay.
9. Velvet (Refined/Formal)
- Occasion: Evening events, formal dinners, or stylish nights out.
- Features: Rich, luxurious texture for a sophisticated look.
The Satisfaction of Making It Yourself
There’s something special about wearing a jacket you’ve made yourself. It’s more than just a piece of clothing—it’s a labour of love that’s crafted with care. When you make this jacket, you’re not just sewing a pattern; you’re creating a garment that tells a story.
Whether you’re making it for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, the effort will be appreciated.
Sewing your own jacket means you get to control every detail—from fabric selection to fit to fasteners. It’s a rewarding experience that gives you a one-of-a-kind piece that suits your personal style and needs.
Here are 3 reasons why you should sew a jacket:
- Customisation: Choose the perfect colour, fabric and make adjustments for the ideal fit. You can change the pockets, the top stitching, the lining fabric, the buttons. The tweaks make it unlike any other.
- Quality: You understand the fabric quality, the detailed stitching, notions and finishes used so that it doesn’t fall apart in the first wash.
- Gift Idea: And of course...the jacket makes a thoughtful gift for the special men and boys in your life. They will be talking about it for years to come, triggering memories every time they put it on. Priceless.
