Coat of armour: The best quilted jackets for women
From waterproof wonders to vintage styles, these quilted jackets are the ultimate summer wardrobe essential
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The key to seamless style? Layers. And as London’s unpredictable summer rolls on – where we’re all too hot one minute, and cold the next – layering is perhaps the easiest way to make an outfit look chic and polished. So how do you save yourself the sartorial headache of levelling up your outfit while staying cool? With a little styling ingenuity and a handful of key pieces – one being the quilted jacket.
Lightweight and stylish, quilted jackets have limitless potential. For the warmer months, wear them solo or over loose shirts to add a statement finish and provide insulation from the summer breeze while, in winter, layer over knitwear for a cosy look. Happily, the world’s fashion houses, and therefore the style set, has embraced the versatility of quilted jackets. From The Frankie Shop’s cult-favourite ripstop padded jackets to Burberry’s minimal styles that epitomise quiet luxury, designers are offering unique takes on the outerwear mainstay. Not sure where to start? Read on for our pick of the best quilted jackets to buy now and wear all year round.
The Frankie Shop quilted jacket
To achieve cult status year after year is no easy feat. And yet, this tonal green jacket has been a wardrobe mainstay since 2021. It’s made from just enough padded ripstop to provide warmth but still avoid overheating on the tube, while the the boxy fit and collarless neckline are universally flattering. Pair with flared jeans and ballet flats (we love Miu Miu’s ballerinas) for a chic look.
Ralph Lauren crest-patch jacket
Preppy style is cool again, don’t you know? But if you’re not ready to embrace the polos and pleated skirts of your school uniform days, consider this quilted jacket from Ralph Lauren to add a subtle preppy touch to your outfit. The mockneck jacket features adjustable faux-leather buckled waist tabs and is filled with water-resistant shell. Wear with a crisp white shirt, tailored trousers and loafers.
Sea Valeria patchwork printed jacket
Sea finds inspiration in vintage designs for its playful printed creations and one fine example is this bright quilted jacket. Cut from floral-printed patchwork cotton, it features a delicate neck tie and navy trims resulting in a piece that’s comfortable, stylish, and reminiscent of 1960s hippie fashion (in the best way possible). Wear solo with denim or throw on over a flowing summer dress to make a statement.
Marant Étoile Drew quilted jacket
We love a sartorial shape-shifter: think reversible shirts, versatile dresses, and this Marant Étoile convertible quilted jacket. Printed with abstract pops of violet, this jacket features padded shoulders and detachable sleeves so you can style it as a vest. Modern and chic, you’ll be reaching for this jacket all year round and whatever the weather.
Burberry thermoregulated jacket
Any seasoned Brit knows the fashion dilemmas that come with unpredictable UK summers. Plan a day out and you don’t know whether to expect a torrential downpour or an absolute scorcher. Happily, British heritage brand Burberry has been working on solving that problem with its high-tech thermoregulated jacket which promises to keep you warm in the breeze and cool in the heat. That the slim-fit design looks good as well is just an added bonus.
Prada quilted Re-Nylon jacket
Prada first launched its Re-Nylon collection of bags – made from regenerated nylon sourced from ocean waste, landfills and industrial excess – in 2019. It was such a success that the brand has since expanded the sustainable line into footwear and ready-to-wear. Finished with a corduroy collar and triangle logo appliqué, we’re big fans of this quilted jacket’s contemporary boxy finish.
Wyse Ginny Borg gilet
Once reserved for City bankers, gilets have recently become a feminine staple thanks to high-fashion versions from Bottega Veneta and Maison Margiela, as seen on style mavens such as Hailey Beiber and Sienna Miller. For SS24, consider this quilted version from British brand Wyse. Made with soft borg fabric and cut for a relaxed fit, we love the ecru shade which you can pair with any outfit.
Hill House Home Blake jacket
Hill House Home may have risen through the fashion ranks with its charming nap dresses, but the rest of its offering is just as feminine and wearable. We particularly adore the Blake jacket, featuring bell sleeves, pearl buttons and a ruffled collar. Wear with elegant midi dresses and wedge heels to summer soirées.
Kitri Studio Theodora jacket
Bright and fun, Hackney-based brand Kitri’s Theodora reversible jacket is adorned with large hand painted blooms on one side and dainty yellow florals on the other, all framed by a bright red trim. Lean into dopamine dressing for your next summer holiday by pairing it with the matching summer dress and a floppy sun hat.
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