Same Outfit, Different Jacket

We are entering, albeit slowly, into the ‘my coat is the outfit’ stage of the year. And it’s true, when the temps drop, the coat becomes the main character for us all. I got to try two different jackets from Quince and I wanted to test my theory that a jacket or coat sets the vibe of an outfit, even if all the variables stay the same. Here is the outfit:

I went simple, with an outfit we’d all wear or probably have worn. This consisted of a nice fitted, cream sweater (super nice in fact and under $40!) and a pair of mid-blue denim with some black accessories. (My denim by the way is that 90s pair from Madewell! They’re growing on me!) I figured let’s start with an easy base to see if the jacket really does make the outfit. So let’s get to the jackets to complete the look!

Wool Shirt Jacket

I love a shacket (shirt + jacket, clever yes?) but honestly — I kind of forgot about them! And the plaid ones kind of took over for a few years and so I didn’t really consider them because I’m in more of a neutral phase right now. (Is this my 40s? Practical fashion instead of a closet full of prints from Anthro? Part of this makes me sad but the other part of me knows I’ll wear neutrals more. This whole situation feels like it needs a substack series. Let’s pick this up in the new year.) But then I was perusing the Quince site and found this shirt jacket and realized that I was missing one this fall / winter. What I like about this look is that it looks really pulled together, but it’s not quite a coat. Plus it’s warm enough for what I need here in Texas. It’s also a more upgraded version of say a denim jacket, which is our very versatile friend as we know. But this one feels more tailored overall. (Can confirm it looks great with leggings too!)

I sized up for an even more oversized look but I don’t think you should or even have to. This is the large and it’s pretty big on me. I’d suggest a true to size fit. It’s 100% merino wool, but not itchy to me. Find it just around $100 here.

Puffer Coat

Now this would have been a variable to my test, but I really think swapping out the boots for a chunky dad sneaker would even take this casual look up a notch. Of course my favorite way to wear a puffer, especially in late winter is with my beloved, albeit borderline seasonally depressive, combination of a sweatshirt and leggings. This paired with my sneakers or even better ugg boots — chef’s kiss on the comfort scale. Come January it’s all I wear.

I find this look to be the perfect amount of sporty / casual without going full athletic wear. Sometimes with a puffer I feel like it’s too sporty, but I proved something to myself today — with the right base outfit, you can elevate a puffer coat. Now this one is also from Quince and it’s a really nice quality. There are also thumbholes in a really soft inner sleeve as well. I’m honestly blown away by their quality. This one also comes in a cropped look, if you like a shorter look. Find this one here! I’ve linked all of their puffer coats below.

Which look is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below!