10 SUMMER JACKETS FOR MEN

We’re all dreaming of bright blue skies, but UK summertime can be very unpredictable. Don't get caught out this season with the help of our lightweight jackets for men. We've got wardrobe staples like denim jackets and trench coats, rain-beating waterproofs and even smart linen styles suitable for weddings and holidays. Keep scrolling for the full list and some helpful tips on what to wear them with.

There are few lightweight layers more suited to tricky summer conditions than a classic denim jacket. For a nostalgic 90s-inspired look, grab one in an oversized fit from throwback streetwear legends Tommy Hilfiger. Complete the 'fit with baggy jeans, a fresh white T-shirt and layered jewellery. Alternatively, we're embracing double denim, because if it's good enough for icons like James Dean and Steve McQueen, it's certainly good enough for us.

For smart-casual days, a trench coat is a great addition to your summer-layer wardrobe. Keep it simple with a T-shirt and jeans and then amp up the smart levels with the shoe of the season: the loafer. And if you're after a spicier look, a faux-leather trench is massive on Y2K vibes. Lock it in with a graphic tee, trainers and a pair of oval sunglasses.

The lightweight bomber jacket has come a long way since its practical beginnings keeping fighter pilots warm in airplane cockpits. During the summer, it's less about insulation and more about a timeless look. The Topman option is perfect for when the temperature dips during long sunny evenings. But if you want your bomber to be the centrepiece of your 'fit, you can't go wrong with motocross-inspired graphics. A styling fave of the 00s, turn your jacket up to 11 with another standout from the decade: jorts. 

Would any selection of men’s light jackets be complete without a gilet? These beauts have long been a staple of streetwear looks and Dickies is one of the biggest names in the game. Style yours with a T-shirt and your fave cap, and if it's a little chillier, mix in your fave sweatshirt or hoodie, just like the Nike combo above.

If gilets are the hero piece of the streetwear look, the shacket is the workwear look's go-to. We love wearing ours with baggy, washed-out denim, but it's possible to give this workwear stalwart a sportier update, too, with the addition of tailored joggers and your favourite trainers. Remember, workwear jackets are the perfect holiday-meal layer – they look great with all of your shorts and instantly give your beach-to-bar look a smarter edge.  

Linen is a summer favourite because it makes everything look smart but summery. We're opting for a linen-effect harrington jacket for fancier summer plans, pairing it with tailored trousers (the wider, the better) and boat shoes. Consider the summer dress code nailed.

Unfortunately, rain is very much a part of the great British summer, but that doesn't mean your look needs to suffer. Enter: RAINS, the Danish brand that makes men's lightweight waterproof jackets in loads of tonal hues. The pale green option above looks good with everything from wide-leg trousers to logo-heavy joggers. Oh, and if you're into the full gorpcore look, any waterproof jacket in adidas's Terrex range is a great shout – it's the outdoorsy side of the 3-Stripe family.