Layer up without dipping into the gift budget.
Now that it’s finally not 80 degrees on the East Coast (summer hangs well into October), it’s officially jacket season. Fall is my favorite season because I’m most comfortable in jeans and a sweater with the occasional cashmere scarf and of course no fall outfit would be complete without a jacket for those chilly mornings.
Recently Katie was going through our coat closet and pulled out four jackets for me to donate. “I can’t remember the last time you wore one of those,” she said. To be fair, one of them still had the tags on, but I explained that I would wear it This weather, and since each of these four jackets was relatively cheap, there was no point in getting rid of them. I hung them back in the closet, and at dinner he started talking to me again.
Here’s the thing: while I wholeheartedly believe in the crybaby mentality, I also believe that variety is the spice of life. Different scenarios call for different jackets. And since I’m going to show you all the prices under $125, I don’t think it’s a sin to own more than one.
Nautica Wool Blend Picot$79.99 $199
Peacock has been an enduring winter coat style for decades. This wool-blend option features traditional double-breasted buttons, and a collar that begs to be popped. Wear it over a sweater with a patterned scarf for a preppy aesthetic.
See more about the peacoat in our features on the peacoat:
GAP Herringbone Top Coat$121 $248
Cut with a little extra room in the body and sleeves, topcoats are made to fit over that sweater or suit jacket (or blazer, sport coat, you name it). The dark brown and subtle herringbone pattern will complement almost any color you wear.
Everlane The Bomber Jacket$89 $148
Everlane is a no-nonsense brand that makes simple clothing and stands behind its uniform line with a one-year guarantee. I love this bomber because it has a tight cut. Harrington jacket. It’s made of a water-resistant polyester blend, and has magnetic closure pockets. And frankly, that’s just smart.
Land’s End Knit Shirt Jacket$31.98 $79.95
Over the past couple of years, the shirt jacket has taken the outerwear world by storm. This one from Land’s End has a snug fit but has a little extra room for layering in the body.
Lands End Squall Waterproof Insulated Jacket$49.98 $124.95
I absolutely love Lands and Squall. A cold autumn morning, a cold winter’s night, a sudden downpour. This jacket does it all. It’s incredibly comfortable, goes with any casual outfit, and the current price is an absolute steal. Oh, and the new colors are fantastic.
Line of Trade flannel-lined waxed ranch jacket$118 $158
Western-style jackets bring a rugged, timeless appeal to any wardrobe, and this ranch jacket is no different. Inspired by authentic western wear, it’s designed for layering with a low-hip cut that balances warmth with a sharp, modern silhouette. The waxed cotton shell not only repels water, but also develops a unique patina over time, giving the jacket character that improves with age. Inside, a heavyweight plaid flannel lining ensures warmth, while brushed cotton twill on the collar and cuffs adds comfort where it matters most. Thoughtful details like antique brass buttons, angled utility pockets, and double-needle stitching highlight its durability and style. This is the kind of jacket that’s as functional on a brisk day outside as it is stylish around town.
LL Bean Classic Puffer Jacket$99
I am a lifelong fan of LLBean because somehow their products make me want to spend more time outdoors. I can’t explain it… good marketing? However, Bean’s classic puffer stands out with its lightweight ColdShield insulation, perfect for wearing standalone in fall or as a midlayer in winter.
Queens insulated heavyweight hooded jacket$99.90 $249
Queens prides itself on producing designer quality pieces at very honest prices. This heavyweight hooded jacket is the warmest piece in the collection, with insulation made entirely from recycled plastic bottles and containers. The outer fabric is water repellent with a ripstop finish.
Cole Haan Wool Blend Car Coat$99.95 $328
For maximum versatility, you can’t go wrong with a car coat. Car coats transition seamlessly between semi-formal and casual, meaning you can wear it over your blazer to work, then ditch the blazer and button down for drinks at 6pm. Can wear a coat.
Duluth Trading Wool Lined Shirt Jacket$44.75 $89.50
I have two of these Duluth shirts, and I probably need at least one more. If I’m working outside in the cold, I’m wearing one of these. Perfect for chopping wood, working on your car, or taking a fall camping trip, the fleece lining is thick and warm, and the flannel exterior is soft but still tough. This shirt jacket is also cut a little longer in the body, so if you need to bend down, you’re not flashing your plumber’s smile at everyone. Heads up: It runs big, so go down a size.
Duluth Trading Fire Hose Insulated Jacket$84.75 $169.50
If you’re a serious outdoorsman, you’ll want to step up to the Fire Hose Insulated Jacket. The exterior of this jacket is made from 11.5 oz firehose canvas (so it’s tough as hell), and it’s finished with a treatment that will repel water and stains. Inside you’ll find 3M Thinsulate for better warmth and breathability.
North Face Mountain Sweatshirt$85 $170
If I’m making a quick trip to the store or walking the dog around the block, I want something comfortable and lightweight like this full-zip sweatshirt from The North Face. The inside features heatseeker insulation while the outside has a moisture repellent finish and a striking color scheme.