For fashion fans, one of the best moments of the year comes at the beginning of every spring. That magical first afternoon when a soft fresh breeze informs them that they can finally trade their winter coats for a spring jacket.
Those tend to vary from trench coats to quilted puffers and denim jackets. And the Refinery29 team has tried them all. Our Fashion Director swears by a trench coat with pockets so big she needs no tote bag for running errands, while our Beauty Editor has a go-to jacket guaranteed to showcase her good mood.
As the season — that Charles Dickens once described as “summer in the light and winter in the shade” — starts, get your wardrobe ready with these editor-approved picks.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Nasty Gal Faux Leather Trench Coat
“This faux leather trench coat is from Nasty Gal, and I purchased it two years ago. It’s perfectly slouchy, and I got it in the black colorway so it matches with any outfit. It was definitely worth every penny. I could be wearing a sweatsuit and putting on this trench makes me feel like I tried. I like how it can be dressed up or down which also makes it perfect for travel.” — Nadia Ebrahim, Assistant Editor, R29 StyleNasty Gal Faux Leather Belted Trench Coat, $, available at NastyGal
Nasty Gal Faux Leather Belted Trench Coat, $, available at NastyGal
J.Crew Denim Jacket
“This white denim jacket from J.Crew is like a cross between a blue-jean Trucker-style jacket and an oversized Oxford shirt.I throw it on over a long dress with sneakers, and while it doesn’t keep me super warm, it’s heavy enough to keep me comfortable in the shade in that weird in-between weather. When in direct sunlight, I’ll tie it around my waist. It serves the purpose of a jean jacket, but I like that it’s white instead of blue-wash denim — makes it feel a little different (though, it’s tougher to keep clean). Wearing it usually means the sun is out, and I’m in a good mood.” — Megan Decker, Beauty EditorJ. Crew Denim jacket, $, available at J. Crew
J. Crew Denim jacket, $, available at J. Crew
Everlane Trench Coat
“I’ve tried a lot of trench coats over the years, and this one is truly the best. It’s light, has both buttons and a belt, boasts large pockets that can fit my wallet and even a small umbrella (I avoid carrying a handbag at all costs), and is the perfect length and color. I’ve had this trench coat for years now and have had to force myself to stop wearing it as soon as the temperatures rise because I am worried I will wear it out. Plus, I feel bad for all my other spring coats.” — Irina Grechko, Fashion DirectorEverlane Trench Coat, $, available at Everlane
Everlane Trench Coat, $, available at Everlane
Carleen Harris Duster
“My longtime go-to spring overcoat is Carleen’s Harris Duster. It’s a heavyweight denim jacket and boasts a collar that, in my opinion, looks best styled upright. I love the oversized fit and the work-wear-ish details. Plus, it’s ethically made in Los Angeles, where the brand is based. The olive-and-sage green is the perfect, unexpected neutral that goes with everything, and it has enormous patch pockets.” — Emily Ruane, Commerce EditorCarleen Harris Duster, $, available at Carleen
Carleen Harris Duster, $, available at Carleen
Levi’s Ex-Boyfriend Jacket
“This Levi’s ex-boyfriend denim jacket has the perfect boxy fit, and I love the light wash. It feels easy and casual but I also love wearing it with a nice dress if I’m going out to dinner. A jean jacket is such a classic wardrobe staple and fits perfectly with my relatively minimal taste in clothes. ” — Karina Hoshikawa, Beauty & Wellness Marker WriterLevi’s Ex-boyfriend Trucker Jacket, $, available at Levi’s
Levi’s Ex-boyfriend Trucker Jacket, $, available at Levi’s
Aritzia Trench Coat
“This Artizia trench is an oldie but a goodie. Unlike some traditional (and pricier!) trenches, it’s incredibly lightweight and soft. Canadian springs are tempestuous, and my trench’s slouchy, relaxed fit ensures I can layer it over a thin puffer or another jacket if it’s chilly in the morning when I’m out walking my dog. I also love how it works for everything from casual dinners out to fancy evenings.” — Carli Whitwell, Director of Editorial OperationsAritzia Vanasco Trench Coat, $, available at Aritzia
Aritzia Vanasco Trench Coat, $, available at Aritzia
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
24 Spring Jacket Looks Perfect For March
