Layer up: The best men’s overshirts
Functional and versatile, the overshirt is your ticket to effortless mid-season style
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It’s been a temperamental summer, to say the least. With temperatures fluctuating daily, choosing what to wear each morning has become quite the chore. A graphic T-shirt may be fun, but it won’t protect you from strong gusts of wind. A warm jacket, on the other hand, could become your own personal sauna on the tube. This is where uber-versatile men’s overshirts (or shackets, if you must) come in.
Lightweight enough to add some flair to your summer outfits and cosy enough to keep you warm on mild autumn days (and harsh ones when sandwiched between layers), the overshirt is the hardest-working garment in the menswear repertoire. Rugged, utilitarian but also nonchalantly stylish, throwing on a casual plaid shacket or a polished padded overshirt can be the quickest way to upgrade your style. Here’s our pick of the best overshirts to buy now.
Jacquemus striped overshirt
With classic white stripes on a blue base, this padded shacket could almost be mistaken for a work shirt. Cut to a boxy fit from cotton-poplin, this Jacquemus overshirt features a point collar and a logo-embroidered chest pocket. Wear over neutral chinos for the office or with white Bermuda shorts for a relaxed holiday vibe.
Loro Piana suede overshirt
When it comes to elevated basics, Loro Piana has you covered. Drawing from the brand’s penchant for clean silhouettes and quality materials, this overshirt is cut from supple navy suede in Italy. Made to last, it’s also water-repellent and fully lined for added resilience.
Burberry reversible overshirt
What’s more versatile than an overshirt? A double-sided one. This quilted black design with a subtle embroidered logo flips to become a signature piece sporting Burberry’s iconic Nova check. The padded overshirt also features the brand’s trademarked thermo-regulating technology to keep you cosy whatever the occasion.
Alexander McQueen cotton overshirt
Exquisitely tailored with a touch of utilitarian edge, this beige Alexander McQueen overshirt is made from a hardy gabardine weave. With flap pockets at the chest and logo-tape detailing, this is the perfect layer for a hiking expedition (or pub garden if you’re not that adventurous) this summer.
Prada Re-Nylon overshirt
For a feel-good option, consider this streetwear-chic offering from Prada. Part of the brand’s Re-Nylon collection, this overshirt is made from regenerated ocean plastic waste, making it more sustainable than traditional fabrics.
Ralph Lauren Western overshirt
Add a cowboy vibe to your outfit with this overshirt from Ralph Lauren. Made from roughout suede, this western-inspired overshirt features curved yoked detailing and classic mother-of-pearl fastenings. Wear with a white tee, faded jeans and cowboy boots for ultimate cool points.
Oliver Spencer Lambeth shirt jacket
Plaid is always on trend, so this Oliver Spencer overshirt is one you’ll wear for years to come. Made from wool-flannel, it’s a perfect cosy option for autumn. Pair with a white tee and beanie for peak cold season vibes.
There Was One panelled overshirt
A symphony of deep chocolate shades, There Was One’s panelled overshirt highlights the label’s flair for elevated basics. Made from cotton, it features press stud fastenings with clean lines and unique detailing, making it a versatile hero piece in your wardrobe.
Kapital Cactus overshirt
If you’re searching for the perfect shacket for your summer holiday, look no further than Japanese cult label Kapital. Leaning more towards jacket than shirt, it draws from traditional workwear silhouettes and features a glittery stripe pattern. Made from a breezy cotton-linen blend, this is a piece that screams summer.
A.P.C. Kerlouan overshirt
A masterclass in tailoring, this A.P.C. overshirt is perfect for light layering at the office. With a spread collar and subtle chest flap pocket, it’s the perfect partner for tailored trousers and a shirt, but equally as ideal over slim-fit cargos.
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