3 Jacket Styles You Should Avoid: A Guide to Looking Classy and Chic

14 January, 2025

From life vests to overcoats to woolen coats, the variety of styles and designs can sometimes make it hard to decide. The saying “spoilt for choice” is spot on when you’re faced with countless options in the market. As a result, many people end up buying ill-fitting jackets, which is not only a waste of money but also a fashion faux pas, especially for important occasions.

Steer clear of these mistake-prone jacket styles, and then focus on the basic criteria to choose the right garment for yourself.

Jacket Styles That Can Make You Look Less Stylish

1. Patterned Life Vests

Life vests have long been a winter staple thanks to their superior warmth. However, not all life vests are created equal when it comes to style. Patterned life vests, especially those with floral prints, tend to be visually overwhelming, difficult to pair with other garments, and can age you beyond your years.

The puffy nature of life vests, when combined with intricate patterns, can make your body appear bulky and take away from your overall elegance. Floral prints, in particular, often clash with modern styles and can give off a “rustic” vibe. If you’re a fan of life vests, opt for solid colors or minimally designed pieces to ensure sophistication.

Patterned life vests can be visually overwhelming and hard to style.

2. Overcoats That Are Too Long

Overcoats exude elegance and sophistication. However, if you don’t pay attention to their length, they can have the opposite effect. For individuals of shorter stature, an overcoat that falls below the knee can make you appear even shorter, and the overall outfit can look untidy.

Instead, choose overcoats that hit just above or at the knee. These designs not only make you look more put together but also give off a youthful and dynamic vibe.

For shorter individuals, overcoats that are too long can be unflattering.

3. Cheap Tweed Jackets

Tweed jackets are synonymous with the “lady-like” or “noble” style, but they aren’t for everyone. Cheap tweed jackets, in particular, tend to be made of inferior fabrics that are prone to pilling and losing their shape after just a few wears.

Additionally, if you don’t have a balanced body shape or fair skin, a tweed jacket can be a double-edged sword, making you look “trying too hard.” To avoid this fashion pitfall, invest in high-quality tweed jackets with simple designs to ensure the elegance you desire.

Invest in high-quality tweed jackets to avoid fashion mishaps.

How to Choose a Winter Jacket That’s Both Warm and Stylish

1. Select the Right Jacket Length for Your Body Type

For taller individuals: Opt for long jackets that fall below the knee. This style accentuates your height and creates a graceful, elegant silhouette.

For shorter individuals: Go for cropped jackets or those that hit at the hip. These designs help balance out your proportions and give you a dynamic, youthful appearance.

2. Prioritize High-Quality Fabrics

A truly elegant outfit starts with the right fabric. For winter jackets, opt for luxurious materials like cashmere, sheepskin, or finely knitted wool. These fabrics not only provide superior warmth but also offer a soft, comfortable feel, elevating your personal style.

Steer clear of thin, low-quality fabrics that are prone to pilling or have an unnatural shine. These fabrics are not only less durable but also detract from the refinement of your ensemble.

3. Choose Simple, Versatile Colors

Color plays a crucial role in making an impression. Neutral hues like black, white, gray, camel, or beige are always safe choices and easily complement various wardrobe pieces.

If you want to add a pop of color, opt for soft shades like pastel blue, blush pink, or oatmeal to create a fresh and cozy vibe. Avoid overly bright colors or intricate patterns, as they can make your outfit look busy and less versatile.