Summer Jackets 2017
With British summers being unpredictable at best, and my collection of coats being woefully inadequate for warmer weather, I’ve been browsing for summer jackets to supplement my usual complement of hoodies. The choice is dizzying, and as usual the universal constant of Sod’s Law means all the ones I really like are not on sale.
From left to right;
Barbour International Legion Bonner Wax
I’m a fan of Barbour, with a particular attraction to their vibrant yellow waterproof jackets, but I also like something a little more understated. This black bomber is clean, simple and refined with a little hint of leather jacket about it. The waxed cotton is, presumably, more water resistant than my other choices and a better bet for the, unpredictable, Sheffield weather. A black jacket leaves the door wide open for contrasting with vibrant coloured tee-shirts and would pair well with most of my wardrobe.
Ted Baker New York Linen Blend
I tried on both the navy and “purple” (looks red to me!) version of this jacket and loved them. They’re really cozy and look great, albeit possibly a little school-uniform-ish. I tried a similar grey jacket also from Ted Baker and on sale, but found the inside lining extremely uncomfortable when worn over a teeshirt 🙁 These, on the other hand, are snug and look great with black jeans and a white shirt or tee for a smarter twist on casual.
Ted Baker Ralli Linen Blend
I love blues and pinks and Ted Baker have plenty of items which work wonders with this colour combo. The Ralli jacket is a great example, and while I wouldn’t ordinarily choose a floral decal it’s subtle enough to work well in both smart and casual outfits. I haven’t had a chance to try this one on yet- I got as far as the front doors of John Lewis before being waylaid by Steel Con- so I’m not sure if it’ll have the scratchy lining I encountered with another Ted Baker jacket, or the soft cozy lining of the New York.
Barbour International Oil Wax
This is a bit of a wild card since at a glance I’m not 100% sure if I like it. I’m a fan of grey, and the weathered look, but can’t quite put my finger on what I don’t like about it. The waxed cotton should provide wind and weather resistance, and the clean, simple design is a blank canvas for your own tapestry of pin badges, patches and customisation. I think it could look great with the right flair.