Somewhere between a shirt and a jacket lives one of the most useful and comfortable wintertime essentials: the aptly named Shirt Jacket. With an aesthetic that draws inspiration from early 20th century work and soldier wear, this garment is cozy, strong, and resistant to the wear and tear of the everyday.
Most commonly made with some variation of organic cotton, this formidable accessory is well-loved for its versatility in the face of inclement weather, either by itself or paired with a heavier outer layer.
To help you sift through the dozens of different options available on the market, we’ve assembled a few of our favorite shirt jackets below.
Moleskin Shirt Jacket from Flint and Tinder – $188
Built with a heavyweight moleskin fabric, this option from Flint and Tinder is incredibly well-suited for the chilly months of fall and winter. Soft yet durable, stylish yet practical, this bad boy works just as well as a stand alone piece as it does nestled between other garments in a layered look. Plus, it’s 100 percent made in the U.S.A.
For something a little more serious, consider this insulated jacket from Patagonia. Outfitted with a combination of hearty organic cotton flannel and Thermogreen polyester, this shirt jacket is specifically designed to safeguard against dramatic temperature drops and blustery winds. Available in an array of patterns, this jacket is sure to become your new cold weather staple.
Breaker Shirt from Topo Designs – $149
If you’re on the prowl for a more contemporary aesthetic, look no further than the Breaker Shirt from Topo Designs. Featuring midweight nylon and a series of snap closures, this shirt jacket could make a great go-to for camping trips or late night bonfires. Pair with dark denim jeans and a cozy pair of leather boots for a fashion-forward fall look.
Bradford Corduroy Shirt Jacket from Buffalo Jackson – $70
Featuring an exterior of rugged corduroy, this shirt jacket puts a fresh spin on the western style of yore. Rounding out this aesthetic, you’ll find a bevy of fun accents, including dual front pockets and leather elbow patches. And though it looks thin, the midweight material does a great job of shielding its wearer from the cold.
Heavyweight Overshirt from Everlane – $75
The Heavyweight Overshirt from Everlane is an excellent alternative to some of the more robust options on this list. Made of 100 percent cotton, this piece has a relaxed, straight fit that makes it work well as a shirt or a lightweight jacket. Perhaps not the best option for deep winter, but could do wonders as a mid-layer or gentle coat in fall.
North Coast Shirt Jacket from Edgevale – $219
Spice up your wardrobe with this trendy shirt jacket from Edgevale. While it certainly looks cool, it’s definitely built to keep you warm, constructed as it is with polyester fleece, wool, and other wind-resistant fabrics. Complete with four-way stretch, this garment moves with the wearer, ensuring some fantastic mobility.
Legend Wash Shirt Jacket from Eddie Bauer – $85
Featuring a brushed flannel interior and a tough cotton exterior, this shirt jacket from Eddie Bauer is made for heavy use. With a classic, relaxed fit, it’s as perfect for running errands around town as it is for cozying up with friends and family for a night of indoor s’mores. Pair with jeans or some cozy corduroys for a look that’s both fashion-forward and functional.
You know what goes great under a shirt jacket? A flannel fit for a king. Shop the best flannels of the season here.