How to Shop the Ladylike Jacket Trend for Spring 2025





























If you’re like me—someone who looks like they’ve stolen their dad’s clothes if they try to rock a barn jacket—I’m here to convince you to consider the ladylike jacket trend instead.
To call this closet staple a ‘trend’ is doing it a disservice, given that the classic style was a favorite of everyone, from Coco Chanel in the 1920s to Jackie Kennedy Onassis in the 1960s. But, thanks to recent endorsement on the spring/summer 2025 runways from Marc Jacobs and Miu Miu (as well as a seal of approval from the street style set outside the shows), the ultra-feminine cropped silhouette is feeling particularly fresh and of the moment.
If you’re keen on getting in on this trend, now’s the time. Plenty of brands, like J.Crew, Anine, Bing, and Boden, have become treasure troves when it comes to timeless takes on the collarless silhouette, with everything from the bouclé to crepe knit categories covered. Ahead, I’ve put together your primer on how to approach the ladylike jacket trend for 2025, along with the editor-approved pieces to shop before everyone else catches on.
Classic & Cropped
Sophistication, personified. Whether you’re heading to the office or to drinks, a tailored ladylike jacket that hits at the hip guarantees polish. I like to pair mine with a high-waisted pant in the same hue and a heel to channel boardroom-ready energy. To transition the outfit to cocktail hour, simply add a chain belt and micro clutch.
Bouclé & Tweed
Does it look like you plucked it straight from the repertoire of your chic great-aunt? Amazing—it’s perfect. When it comes to ladylike jackets, it doesn’t get more tried-and-true than the aesthetic pioneered by Coco Chanel herself. To avoid looking dated, juxtapose an elegant cream or navy piece with slouchy boyfriend jeans or leather track pants.
Collared
While the image that ladylike jackets tends to evoke a collarless crewneck, I’m noticing more and more fun versions with a collar. In particular, I’m always a sucker for a grandfather or Mandarin collar on a slim-fitting jacket—effortlessly effective in an instant.
Denim
Everywhere I look, the perennial denim jacket is getting a makeover. Sure, you might have plenty of them hanging up in your wardrobe, but might I suggest one of these streamlined, jazzed-up takes? The cream and beige ones are extra tempting. Plus, I can see them working with everything from lace dresses to cargo pants, so I think it’s time to add one to your cart.
With a Twist
Is it just me, or is there an increasing number of modern spins of the old-school ladylike jacket? The types for women who make their own rules, if you will. When I spotted this totally unique black velvet Rixo jacket on a fellow fashion editor, I was sold. “It’s my new favorite spring jacket,” she told me. “It’s so versatile, and the gold embroidery makes it feel extra special. It’s a great accent piece for my go-to outfit of jeans and a T-shirt.”
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