Ask Belle: Short Spring Jackets

Hi Belle,

I was hoping you could help me find the perfect spring jacket. I love cropped trench coats, simple swing jackets, and sportier jackets like J.Crew’s Downtown Field Jacket. Do you know of any simple,short jackets that can take me through spring, that are (ideally) under-$100?

Thank you! K

The first thought that came to my mind was short trench: I like this yellow one or this wide collar red one.  And of course, there’s always the traditional khaki choice.  However, if you’re looking for a field jacket…

White House Black Market Ruched Field Jacket ($80)

I like this field jacket for its feminine details.  However, Old Navy has a classic style for $35 and Levi’s has a navy, 3/4 sleeve jacket.  And, of course, the Gap has a menswear-inspired khaki jackets.  Ralph Lauren also makes a quilted barn jacket here in khaki, and in navy.

In the just-over-$100 category, Mango has a Barbour-style jacket in boucle fabric.   Hunter has a resin-coated cotton jacket that’s pretty cool, and Madewell sells a distressed military-style jacket.  And if you have a bit more money to spend, I adore this hooded Joie jacket in faded grey twill.

If the field style isn’t for you, and you would like a longer lightweight jacket, I love this colorblock collarless coat from Tahari, and this white, 3/4 sleeve one.  I also love this orange zipper coat.  You could also choose a knit or  faux-leather moto jacket.

I didn’t find many options available in plus size or petites, but I suspect some of you ladies have a few suggestions.  If you’re a specialty size and you’ve seen a cute warm weather jacket for sale, leave the link in the comments.