While winter coats are typically heavier in weight and darker in color, spring coats share nearly opposite characteristics. Lighter weights make jackets more appropriate for warmer weather, while brighter colors make these coats more fitting for the season.
Need a smart spring jacket to round out your warmer weather wardrobe? Try one of these classic spring coat looks, each updated for 2013.
The Trench Coat
A classic trench is my personal favorite spring coat style, and living in California I’m luckily able to wear this look year-round! I bought a basic Gryphon trench in spring 2011 and have been wearing it non-stop ever since. A trench coat is truly a great fashion investment.
If you’re ready to make the investment plunge, you can’t go wrong with a Burberry trench. I’m particularly loving the updated version shown here, which includes chic leather piping.
For a budget buy that is equally classic, check out the Calvin Klein Legacy trench at $128.00. Or, if you’re looking for something a little sleeker, a single-breasted Collection Ellen Tracy trench can be yours for $179.90, marked down from $298.00.
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→ Buy the Burberry London Belted Double Breasted Trench Coat, $1395.00, at nordstrom.com; shipping and returns are free.
The Anorak
The anorak is a smart spring jacket choice if your personal style is a little sportier or a little more fashion-forward (really, it works both ways). This durable combination of zippers, snaps, and functional pockets has been a spring staple for generations.
The anorak is now getting a fresh look in style circles thanks to several designers pairing its functional edge with girly-glam looks on the runway. Not sure how to work an anorak into your daily life? Oprah.com has a great how-to on wearing anoraks.
I prefer the clean lines and classic good looks of the Cole Haan Roll-Sleeve Anorak. But, it’s easy to take the trend in different directions. Go posh with a Burberry Brit anorak at $896.25 (marked down from $1195.00), or city-sleek with the Ivanka Trump Roll-Sleeve Anorak at just $138.00.
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→ Buy the Cole Haan Roll Sleeve Anorak, $395.00, at nordstrom.com; shipping and returns are free.
The Brightly Colored Coat
No matter which jacket shape fits your style or needs, choosing a bright color will keep your look buoyant this spring. If spring in your part of the world means especially chilly nights, a leather jacket is a great way to keep warm. A bright color, like the grass green of this Bernardo jacket, will keep the leather from feeling too oppressive for springtime.
If your area is on the warmer side, try this bright orange denim moto jacket from Steve Madden – a steal at just $98.00. For a fashionista-worthy look that will turn heads, Junya Watanabe has a sky blue ripstop nylon coat with oversized collar for $1565.00.
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→ Buy the Bernardo Leather Moto Jacket, $199.90 (was $300.00), at nordstrom.com; shipping and returns are free.
