No, Not a Trench Coat—The Most Stylish Dressers Will Turn to These 5 Jacket Trends This Fall.
It could simply be the seemingly endless heatwave we experienced in the UK this summer, but I'm genuinely beginning to sense the drop in temperature. This change leads me to focus on one thing: what jackets will I don this autumn? I've typically favored a minimalist style, but honestly, my trench coat feels a bit too mundane for my taste this year. While it won't ever go out of style, I'm planning to use my outerwear in autumn 2026 as an effortless way to add flair to my ensembles. My primary source of inspiration? The fashion runways, naturally! After hours of browsing through look books of high-end brands and chatting with my fellow editors who attended fashion week earlier this year, I've set out to discover the most sophisticated yet easy-to-wear jacket trends to refresh my wardrobe this autumn. And trust me, this year's catwalk was truly impressive.
(Image credit: Lanvin, Victoria Beckham, Situationist, Kim Shui Autumn/Winter 2026 - Launchmetrics Spotlight)In my quest, I uncovered five new jacket trends that perfectly balance elegance, wearability, and timelessness to endure in my capsule wardrobe for many years. Consider chic animal-print designs that are as adaptable as any neutral, alongside refined waisted silhouettes that will instantly enhance jeans, skirts, and trousers this season. So, if you're also seeking autumn outerwear inspiration for 2026, continue scrolling to see and shop the five jacket trends that the most stylish individuals will be opting for instead of their trench coats this season.
1. Animal Print
(Image credit: Kim Shui, Situationist, Carolina Herrera Autumn/Winter 2026 - Launchmetrics Spotlight))Style Notes: Once deemed tacky by the fashion world, animal prints have become a favorite among chic dressers in 2026, and I’m no exception. Whether it's leopard, zebra, or even cow-print, a jacket in these patterns can elevate a simple outfit; and rest assured, the monochrome shades will still match seamlessly with the neutrals in your wardrobe. Shop the Trend:
No one will believe this is high street.
GANNI
Laminated Zebra Jacket
Perfect paired with jeans, skirts, and tailored trousers.
Mint Velvet
Leopard Print Velvet Jacket
Absolutely loving this entire look.
ASOS DESIGN
80s Batwing Textured Formal Jacket
This carries such a retro vibe.
2. Funnel-Neck
(Image credit: Ujoh, Victoria Beckham, Niccolò Pasqualetti Autumn/Winter 2026 - Launchmetrics Spotlight)Style Notes: If you're aiming for an intentional and polished appearance, a funnel-neck jacket is the way to go. This high-neck silhouette exudes elegance. The best part? The coat does all the talking, allowing minimalists like me to keep the rest of our looks very simple. Designers like Victoria Beckham and Niccolò Pasqualetti are championing this refined outerwear style for autumn 2026. Shop the Trend:
Reformation
Kendall Jacket
Available in black and blue as well.
Róhe
Leather Bomber Jacket
My ideal autumn bomber jacket.
victoria beckham
Bomber Jacket
Nobodys Child
Funnel Neck Melza Jacket
3. Plum
(Image credit: Hermès, Michael Kors, Miu Miu Autumn/Winter 2026 - Launchmetrics Spotlight)Style Notes: I usually wear black and brown throughout autumn and winter, but when I'm in the mood for a slightly different yet equally refined shade, I turn to rich plum tones that are both sophisticated and elevated. With the endorsements from Hermès, Miu Miu, and Michael Kors for this color trend in autumn 2026, it’s clear that plum shades are here to stay. Shop the Trend:
ralph lauren
Wool-Blend Double-Breasted Cropped Coat
The quintessential elevated basic.
M&S
Faux Leather Harrington Jacket
If you own a black leather jacket, consider this lovely plum option.
The Frankie Shop
Hope Jacket
For when the temperatures dip significantly.
4. Check
(Image credit: Chanel, Burberry, Akris Autumn/Winter 2026 - Launchmetrics Spotlight)Style Notes: If you’ve begun your seasonal shopping, you’ve likely observed that the charming polka dots from summer are gradually being replaced by checks this autumn. Checks fit perfectly with the autumn vibe and offer a simple way for a minimalist dresser to add some interest to their outfits without needing to introduce bold colors. From classic Burberry plaids to vintage-inspired tweed at Chanel, this season presents a wide variety of check styles. Shop the Trend:
Burberry
Contrast Check Cashmere Wool Cape
MANGO
Checked Jacket With Funnel Neck
Check off two trends at once.
Miu Miu
Checked Technical Fabric Blouson Jacket
Miu Miu consistently impresses.
I'm particularly fond of this red-and-white color pairing for autumn.
5. Wa
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No, Not a Trench Coat—The Most Stylish Dressers Will Turn to These 5 Jacket Trends This Fall.
From animal patterns to fitted shapes.
