FASHION

WHY THE BARN JACKET IS AN AUTUMN STYLE ESSENTIAL

By Emma Strawbridge, 7 October 2024

There’s a new style in town: the barn jacket. While not *actually* new (its origins span hundreds of years), the way we're seeing them styled is. From celeb inspo from the likes of Dua Lipa, Hailey Bieber and Hayley Williams to the depths of our FYPs and the runways at Prada and Loewe, we’re seeing them everywhere. Keep scrolling to find out what exactly makes a barn jacket a barn jacket, and why you need one in your wardrobe.

WHAT IS A BARN JACKET?

Its defining details: a canvas or wax-coated fabric, a corduroy or contrast collar, multiple pockets and a boxy shape. If you’re thinking, 'This sounds like a Barbour jacket,' you’d be correct. And if we look to the USA, Carhartt WIP’s iconic Detroit jacket fits the bill, too. The term 'barn jacket' essentially refers to its classic workwear origins or something that could, quite literally, be worn in a barn.

HOW WE'RE WEARING THEM THIS SEASON:

Hailey Bieber Wearing a Barn Jacket | ASOS Style Feed

Picture: Getty

Hailey Bieber rocking a boxy barn jacket with micro shorts.

Picture: Isabelle Hardy

Hayley Williams at Paris Fashion Week.

We’re loving how versatile they are for autumn/winter styling. On the runways we’ve seen them being worn over hyper-feminine dresses and skirts – the contrast in style just works and is perfect for the upcoming party season. For day-to-day, they look great styled simply with T-shirts, jumpers and denim – an easy outfit formula that never fails. Just add your choice of footwear: trainers, boots, loafers… anything goes with this one.