Whatever the time of year, men’s jackets are an ubiquitous clothing item in the UK. That’s because our notoriously bad weather means leaving the house without a jacket is a high-risk move, even in the summer.

But jackets aren’t just about keeping warm and dry. In the 21st century, men’s jackets have been just as influenced by fashion trends as the clothes worn beneath them. So if you’re thinking about buying a new jacket, you might be bewildered by the array of options at your disposal.

Choosing a Jacket For Everyday Wear

Men’s jackets cover a range of possibilities, from straight-laced work jackets to stylish military-influenced coats. If you’re choosing a jacket to wear to work, go with stylish and simple. Blazers make the ideal work jacket, thanks to their precise tailoring and versatility. Blazers can be easily dressed up with a smart shirt, suit trousers and formal shoes for meetings, for instance, or worn with chinos and a t-shirt for casual office wear.

For something more outdoorsy, look for a Harrington jacket. Defined by a simple zip-up fastening, breast pockets and fitted cuffs, this jacket looks great during the day and on a casual night out. Pair a navy blue Harrington jacket with burgundy chinos and black trainers for an easy look that will be big in 2013, or simply wear with straight-cut jeans. A leather biker jacket is a timelessly stylish option too: wear with a knit insert jacket or gilet in winter to keep your body warm, or loosely unzipped over a white t-shirt for a 1950s summer vibe.

Or for a jacket that offers more comprehensive protection from the elements, go for a quilted panel jacket to shelter your body from the wind or a fur-collared aviator jacket to keep your neck warm.

Formal Jackets

Choosing a jacket for a formal occasion requires a more discerning eye than its casual cousins. Most men rely on a standard suit jacket for formalwear but there are other options. For instance, look for a tweed jacket or blazer to wear with suit trousers and pair with a bow tie or cravat for a preppy look that will be in vogue in 2013.

If you have a lean frame, double-breasted jackets are a great alternative to the usual two-button variation. And if you can’t find a formal jacket style that suits you, men’s tailored jackets are the way to go. Bespoke tailoring takes into account your specific body measurements and style preferences, so you’ll always end up with a flattering jacket that’s unique to you.