The barn jacket is a timeless and versatile piece that has stood the test of time. It was originally intended for farm work and outdoor labor, but my god, it has since become part of every casual and stylish rotation. Whether you’re going to a farm, a weekend away, or just want to take your everyday look up a notch, the barn jacket is a solid choice. But how do you style it for the perfect balance of practical and fashionable? This guide will help you style a barn jacket for any occasion.
What is a Barn Jacket?
But before we get into some styling tips, let’s start by defining what a barn jacket is. Barn jackets are generally heavy, insulated coats made from rugged materials such as waxed cotton, denim, or canvas. Made to weather the elements, typically they have a plush lining and practical contraption. Traditionally, styling on barn jackets is slightly longer than that of a regular jacket for additional warmth and coverage. Now, you can find many different colors, cuts, and styles, so they are a perfect complement to any closet.
Casual Look with Jeans
Pairing a barn jacket with jeans is one of the simplest and most classic looks. Skinny, straight-leg, or bootcut, barn jackets go with all styles.
For a more neutral look, go for a plain, dark (navy, olive green, brown) barn jacket. Just add an understated white or gray T-shirt to keep it low-key. If it’s chillier outside, wear a cozy sweater layered underneath.
Footwear to Pair
- Boots: Sturdy leather or Chelsea boots give the outfit that rugged yet stylish touch.
- Sneakers: For a more casual, everyday feel, white sneakers can add a nice contrast against the structure of the jacket.
How to Style a Barn Jacket: Layering Over a Sweater
Barn jackets make great layering pieces, especially with a bulky sweater. This outfit is perfect for fall or early winter when the temperatures are temperamental. Depending on the look you are going for, you can opt for a classic chunky knit sweater or a more fitted one.
A neutral barn jacket, in tan or gray, works nicely with a patterned sweater. Consider stripes, checks, or even a cable knit pattern.
Footwear to Pair
- Loafers or Chukka boots would offer a smart-casual vibe.
- Try Chelsea boots for a more casual look.
The Sporty Look with Leggings
For a preppy sporting-dad kind of look, wear your barn jacket with leggings instead. That makes it ideal to wear on your way to the gym, out for coffee, or even while you run errands. Opt for a fitted barn jacket that won’t add too much bulk to your look.
You can wear a fitted hoodie or a casual tank under it. Pair with a pair of high-waisted leggings so you’re comfortable but still put together.
Footwear to Pair
- Trainers or hiking boots to make it sporty.
- A pair of sneakers for a more casual everyday look.
Dress It Up for Evening Wear
Barn jackets need not be restricted to casual wear. They can be dressed for a nighttime event or dinner. For a more dressed-up evening look, select a fitted barn jacket in a darker color like black, navy, or charcoal.
The chestnut-brown plaid of it goes best with a black pair of jeans or a smart pair of trousers. On top, opt for a simple button-up shirt or blouse in a light textile like cotton or silk. “Pair it with a turtleneck sweater underneath the jacket for a more polished look.”
Footwear to Pair
- Ankle boots or Oxford shoes can dress it up.
- Heels bring a sophisticated contrast to the rustic barn jacket.
How to Style It: Pair with a Skirt for a Feminine Touch
For those of you who love an outerwear/skirt combination, a barn jacket is a cool, unexpected twist in such an outfit. Barn jackets pair nicely with both mini and midi skirts, so they’re a great choice for all seasons. You can look a bit more feminine with a flowy skirt with a floral or checkered pattern and a fitted or oversized barn jacket.
Complete with a fitted turtleneck or blouse underneath for balance. For fall, this dress will keep you warm with tights or knee-high boots while still looking trendy.
Footwear to Pair
- Heeled ankle boots to add some height.
- Knee-high boots to create a more stylish and polished look.
Styled with Overalls for a Farm-Inspired Look
Since the barn jacket has its origins in farm work, it can also be paired with overalls, which helps to save the vibe, which is rustic and farm-inspired. This ensemble is practical and stylish. Opt for denim or corduroy overalls, and layer them with a fitted or slightly larger barn jacket to elevate a laid-back look.
Under the jacket, you can simply throw on a T-shirt or a light sweater. This type is great for weekend getaways, gardening, or strolling through nature.
Footwear to Pair
- Chunky work boots for a real farm girl vibe.
- Chunky sneakers to keep it contemporary.
Monochromatic Look
If you were designated the barn jacket aficionado in your social cohort, this monochromatic outfit is a simple way to wear the barn jacket well. Choose a single color palette, such as all navy, black, or grey. You can also play with texture, like pairing a wool sweater with a canvas barn jacket, to add depth while remaining within a simple color palette.
It is a sleek and modern style, great for those who lead a minimalist wardrobe. A monochrome outfit is no-fuss and polished.
Footwear to Pair
- Just make sure the boots or sneakers are in neutral colors to maintain the monochromatic feel.
- Flat slip-on shoes or loafers give it this streamlined appearance.
A Barn Jacket is Your Secret to Ultimate Style
Barn jackets are a practical piece of attire, but they’re also a stylish one. Whether you’re dressing it up or keeping it casual, this versatile jacket is something that can be worn in many different ways to match your style. Whether you wear it over jeans and boots or on top of a sweater or dress, the barn jacket can be dressed for nearly any event.
Hence, be it treatment with a weekend adventure or if you wish to make an impression in the street while running errands, the barn jacket is that one reliable fashion piece that will never go out of style. With these styling tips, your barn jacket will be a wardrobe staple that offers both comfort and style for a long time to come.
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