We Test Before You Purchase: The Spring Jackets You Should Check Out Now

      Our "We Try Before You Buy" series is designed to ease the shopping experience and reduce the number of trips to the Post Office for returning unsuccessful online purchases. We evaluate new-season items and styling concepts so you don’t have to, and this month our editors tested a variety of new spring jackets to compile their selection of the truly worthwhile investments. Sunshine! Is that you? Before we get too excited and dig out our sandals in anticipation of outdoor season, it's still quite chilly in the UK, signaling that spring is just around the corner. Every editor I know grapples with the "in-between" phase—the tricky time between winter and spring that looks wonderfully bright but still calls for some smart layering. With our heavy winter coats now retired for the season, it's lightweight jackets that will revitalize our wardrobes and ease our morning routines. The rest of our closets—think jeans, tees, fine knits, and long dresses—remain fairly dependable, but it's the right jacket that truly transforms the outfit, making it just as crucial as handbags and shoes in terms of versatility and durability.

      In this latest edition of "We Try Before You Buy," where we handle the ground work for you, we've curated a selection of the finest spring jackets available. Our focus is on transitional styles that effortlessly balance warmth and lightness. Expect wool for brisk mornings, trenches for sunnier afternoons, and denim for almost any occasion, along with some trendy options like the stylish barn coat. We’ve carefully considered styles to accommodate every size, aesthetic, and budget, from highly sought-after luxury pieces (hello, Toteme and Burberry) to impressive designer alternatives (kudos to Mango and COS). To ensure an authentic and honest review, we provide details about fit, fabric, price, and various pros and cons for each style based on the wearer's experience, so we really do spoil you. Ready to find a new jacket for this spring and beyond? Continue scrolling to discover and shop the spring jackets that have earned the Who What Wear stamp of approval.

      (Image credit: Rebecca Munroe)

      "I’m not typically drawn to trench coats, but when I decided to try one this spring, I opted for a classic, and there’s no trench more classic than a Burberry. Given the price, I had high hopes for this updated version of Burberry’s timeless style, and I must say, it didn’t disappoint in nearly all areas. Perhaps due to the brand’s signature check, the tartan lining gives this jacket an immediate sense of luxury upon wearing it. I appreciated the button details, though the multiple buttons do require a good five minutes of your time before you head out, but once fully fastened, I felt extremely chic—almost like a stylish Inspector Gadget! My only drawback would be the fit—I’m in a small here but would consider sizing up as the fabric has minimal stretch; I’d like the option to layer sweatshirts underneath this high-end piece to maximize its styling possibilities. Overall, if you’re seeking just one trench for your wardrobe, this style truly seems to be timeless, making its price tag worthwhile when considering cost per wear."—Annie Wheatland-Clinch, Assistant Social Editor

      Shop the Burberry Trench Coat:

      Burberry

      Long Chelsea Heritage Trench Coat

      Pros: Instantly recognizable, signature details, a piece of fashion history.

      Cons: Slim fit, sizing up needed for layering.

      Shop More Trench Coats:

      DAY BIRGER ET MIKKELSEN

      Lynn Belted Woven Trench Coat

      7 For All Mankind

      Oversize Cape Trench Cotton Star Fish

      (Image credit: Rebecca Munroe) “If there’s one item that has stood the test of time in my wardrobe, it’s The Frankie Shop Gelso blazer. I purchased it a year ago, and it has become my go-to for effortless layering—whether as a blazer or as a lightweight jacket for spring. As someone who dresses modestly, I love its oversized fit, offering coverage without being bulky. It lays beautifully over everything, from tailored trousers to denim, performing just as well over a knit in winter as it does over a slip dress on cooler spring days. While it’s an investment, it’s absolutely worth it. The soft Tencel-Lyocell blend feels luxurious and breathable, making it perfect for the unpredictable spring weather. Unlike heavier blazers, it provides a fluid feel that makes it the ideal in-between jacket. If you want a blazer that transcends office wear and works year-round, this is it. After a year, I can confidently declare it one of my best purchases.” —Humaa Hussain, Junior Branded Content Editor

      Shop the Frankie Shop Gelso Blazer:

      THE FRANKIE SHOP

      Gelso Oversized Tencel Lyocell-Blend Blazer

      Pros: Lightweight, breathable, versatile with everything.

      Cons: More expensive than high street options, and its