Barn Jackets Are Back: The Fall Jacket I’m Seeing Everywhere
Barn jackets have been quietly creeping back into fashion for a while now, but this fall they seem to be everywhere. There are a few accessories or things I’m obsessed with: jackets and sunglasses. I feel like they are things you wear ALL of the time (along with handbags) and can often be part of the first impression that people see on you. I own way too many coats and jackets and I have to say, I’m kind of loving that barn jackets are trending this fall. I don’t own one (YET!) and it’s definately at the top of my list of purchases this fall.
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If you’re picturing something you’d actually wear to muck out a barn, you’re not entirely wrong. That’s where these jackets started. But the versions showing up right now feel a little more polished. Think corduroy collars, oversized patch pockets, waxed or sturdy cotton fabrics and that slightly boxy, borrowed-from-the-country look that somehow works just as well with loafers as it does with boots. I think they have been a staple across the pond for quite some time now, and little old me will certainly be wearing mine in and around Michigan this fall.
And unlike a lot of trends that come around again, this one doesn’t feel particularly young. In fact, I think the barn jacket might be even better on women over 40.
Why Barn Jackets Are Everywhere Again
Fashion has been leaning toward practical, heritage-inspired pieces for a few seasons now. Loafers, riding boots, cable-knit sweaters, plaid, and suede bags. The barn jacket fits right into that world. If I could move to anywhere in the fall, it would be to the English countryside but since I cannot (sigh), I’ll stick with the English countryside look.
The great thing about barn jackets, is that it gives you some structure without feeling dressy. It can replace a denim jacket when you want something a little more interesting and take the place of a blazer when a blazer feels like too much. Throw one over a white tee and jeans and suddenly what you’re wearing looks intentional.
What Exactly Is a Barn Jacket?
Traditional barn jackets were designed as workwear, which explains most of the details we’re seeing on today’s versions: durable cotton or canvas, roomy pockets, straight or slightly oversized cuts and contrasting collars, usually in corduroy. Barbour is probably one of the names most associated with this general look, particularly its waxed jackets, but you certainly don’t need to spend Barbour money to get it. My husband and I took a trip to Scotland for his 40th and he came home with a Barbour jacket and still wears it to this day ,almost 10 years later, so they do stand the test of time if you are so inclined to invest.
There are barn jackets and utility jackets at nearly every price point right now, and I’ve found quite a few affordable versions that give you the same classic look. Here are the 10 I would choose right now.
L.L. Bean Adirondack Barn Coat
I had to start with a classic brand, L.L. Bean. They make outstanding outerwear and this barn coat is no expection. The best part? It has a flannel lining that looks so cute when you wear the coat open, but also provides that extra bit of warmth.
GAP Waxed Canvas Barn Jacket
This waxed canvas barn jacket has a bit of an oversized fit with a gorgeous corduroy collar. Since it’s meant to be oversized, size down a bit if you want a more classic fit (but I like that it’s oversized!)
Marine Layer Riley Barn Jacket
This is one of my favorites. Another one with waxed canvas (meaning it’s water-resistant), it’s got a great broken-in feel to it and would look fab thrown over just about anything.
Barbour Liddesdale Quilted Barn Coat
I just had to include Barbour (how could I not??) and the price point is not all bad given the brand! I like this one as it’s quilted and a bit of a different look than the classic waxed barn jackets. And, ofcourse, it has Barbour’s signature tartan lining.
J.Crew 1986 Barn Jacket
For those of you that want your barn jacket with a little extra something-something, this is your gal. A funtional design, sturdy and based off of work-wear, this barn jacket has an embellished collar that makes it feel just a bit more feminine. Oh, the lining is adorable, too!
Patagonia W’s Point Reyes Canvas Coat
Patagonia is one of my favorite brands and you always know you’ll get quality anything with their outerwear. It’s made from 100% Regenerative Organic Certified® Cotton and has corduroy detailing on both the collar and cuffs.
A&F Mid-Length Denim Barn Jacket
For those of you looking for something other than the muted browns and greens that are so common for barn jacket, this pretty chestnut (although to me it leans more towards burgundy) color is a great option. It’s got that great vintage workwear look.
Levi’s Quilted Barn Jacket
Okay, friends, I can’t EVEN with this adorable gingham barn jacket. It comes in several different colors/patterns and has front patch pockets. Also, at the time of publishing this, it was marked down but even at full price, it looks a lot more expensive than it is.
Pendelton Cascades Canvas Barn Coat
Another brand I’ve always admired, this is made of durable cotton canvas with dual-entry pockets (a plus that a lot of other coats do not have). This is a very clean, classic barn jacket that would look good on pretty much everyone.
What to Look for When Buying a Barn Jacket
Fit is probably the biggest thing. Most barn jackets are intentionally a little boxy, but there’s a difference between relaxed and completely swallowing you. I like enough room underneath for a sweater without so much fabric that the jacket loses all shape.
Pay attention to where the shoulders fall and how long the jacket is on you, particularly if you’re petite. A slightly cropped barn jacket can be easier to wear if you don’t love oversized outerwear. The collar matters, too. That contrasting corduroy collar is what gives a lot of these jackets their charm, and personally, it’s one of the details I’d look for.
I’d also pay attention to fabric. Cotton canvas will generally feel more casual and soften with wear. Waxed cotton has that beautiful traditional English-country look and gives you some weather protection, but it usually comes with a higher price tag and requires a little more care.
And then there are the pockets. Perhaps this says something about where I am in life, but give me a jacket with four useful pockets and I’m already halfway sold.
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