28 best denim jackets for fall, according to style experts

One of the things we love most about denim jackets it that they truly never go out of style. "They are an essential element in a wardrobe because they A, provide warmth and B, can be used to turn up or down an outfit’s dressy factor," says Hallie Abrams, founder and lead stylist at The Wardrobe Consultant. If you don't already have one, Abrams recommends grabbing a classic-style denim jacket like this one from J.Crew Factory that's made to hit right above the hip.

Denim doesn't always have to mean blue either. Consider this edgier black option by Free People. "The generous fit and slightly cropped back will make it your go-to jacket for body con dresses and denim alike," says Christy Beddingfield, a Nordstrom stylist based in Atlanta's Perimeter Mall. She also recommends pairing this jacket with a bodysuit, wide-leg jeans and chunky heeled bootie for a fun fall silhouette.

Underscored fashion and beauty editor, Sophie Shaw, says this Levi's jacket she picked up a few years ago has become a staple in her fall wardrobe. "Since it’s a men’s cut, the silhouette is oversized in the good kind of way — and it has that handy breast pocket that only seems to be a thing in men’s jackets," Shaw says. "The sherpa lining is warm and cozy, but the jacket isn’t overly bulky so it’s great for layering. It comes in a bunch of different washes, but I like the versatility of the black stonewash. It’s a little rugged-looking so it adds an edge."

Abrams says if you already have a classic jean jacket in your closet but want a slightly different option, consider adding an oversized version for this season. This jacket from Quince can help give a cozy, relaxed vibe to your favorite dresses or skirts or pair it with some baggier trousers for a casual, laid-back look.

Perfectly slouchy with dainty tie details, this Free People jacket is ideal for those cold-then-hot fall days with its front opening that helps keep things breezy. "There are denim jackets, and then there are jackets that look like this," says celebrity stylist and TV personality, Cindy Conroy. "The unyielding lines emphasize the oversized shape and allow the tie-front detail to be center stage."

"For a more polished denim jacket, I love this collarless option from Abercrombie and Fitch," says stylist Alex Lamb. "It’s an updated version of the classic denim jacket and pairs well with a wide-leg trouser and sneakers for a casual, chic look." And for a cool going-out look, Lamb recommends styling this jacket with a minidress or skirt and heels.

“This stands out as a remarkable denim jacket under $120 due to its distinct swing silhouette with a pleated back and dropped shoulders,” says stylist and founder of Trésor by Tanya fashion line Tanya Nigdelian. “It creates an overall flattering shape and comfortable fit.”

“This standout denim jacket [features a] versatile design combining the classic look of a shirt with the functionality of a jacket,” Nigdelian says. “It offers endless styling possibilities. The addition of a belted waist not only accentuates the figure but also allows for a customizable fit and added flair.” 

Looking for a jacket that has a little something extra? This cropped jacket features vintage-inspired patchwork — all staying true to the traditional blue hues of denim.

If you love the cut of your leather moto jacket, try a moto-cut denim jacket that will surely get more wear in the warmer months than your leather version.

“I generally prefer a bomber style, but I love the way this dark-wash jacket goes with everything,” says digital entrepreneur and fashion consultant Alyssa Coscarelli.

“This is the perfect transitional jacket,” Keshishian says. “It gives you the luxury of dressing your outfit up or down. Black denim is the edgier and more sophisticated option that suits all occasions.”

“This jacket elevates any outfit to an inherent sense of cool with its oversized ’90s feel,” says Taline Keshishian, the stylist and fashion entrepreneur behind the boutique line Hokiis.

This blazer is an elevated take on the classic denim jacket. With elegant collared lapels and useful front pockets, this oversized blazer can be paired over a sundress or over light-wash jeans.

Perfect for cozy fall vibes, this Sherpa-lined denim style from Levi’s is one of Amazon’s top-rated denim jackets and an influencer favorite.

"The Maddie jacket from Wash Lab Denim has a modern feel featuring a shirt jacket-inspired style," Beddingfield says. "The frayed hem contributes to the cool-girl vibes, and an oversized fit completes the look." Beddingfield recommends adding this jacket to jeans for a denim-on-denim look and adding a statement belt and a pair of sporty sneakers for a pop of personality.

"The We The Free Madison City Denim Jacket from Free People is a cross between a denim shirt and a chore jacket and easy to layer because of its oversize fit," says stylist Dacy Gillespie. "Throw it on over a hoodie or a chunky turtleneck sweater for a great transitional fall look." This jacket is also cut for that oversize look, and Free People's sizing typically runs a bit big, so Gillespie says that even though this jacket only goes up to size XL, it should fit at least 2X.

Some brands are just synonymous with denim, like Madewell — a brand we already reach for when we need a new pair of jeans. "Madewell has long been my go-to for all things denim," says Underscored editorial director Chelsea Stone. "While I’ve had a few jean jackets from the brand over the years (I got a lot of use out of an oversize one from a few years back), my current fave is this more cropped style featuring dropped shoulders and a more relaxed fit for some added cool factor."

Conroy says this cropped Abercrombie & Fitch coat will give you all the vibes of a trench silhouette without the added bulk. "The weight of the fabric creates a beautiful form, so on days when you don’t want to commit to a traditional trench coat, this is a great alternative," she says.

Gillespie is a huge fan of Universal Standard — both for the brand's large range of inclusive sizing and its incredible-feeling fabrics. "For a trendier, longer version of a denim jacket, try Universal Standard's Denim Chore Jacket," she says. "It's not actually a chore jacket, but just a longer version of a classic denim jacket, but it has just the right amount of elastane to make it comfy for wearing throughout the day."

Available in four washes, this jacket from Able Clothing is made to have that broken-in feel right from the first wear. "The Merly Jacket is classic and comfy because using a blend of fabrics instead of 100% cotton gives more stretch," Gillespie says.

Tired of stiff or overly slouchy denim jackets? Many reviewers have called this Joe's option the perfect denim jacket. "This Joe’s denim jacket is relaxed without being oversized, making it the perfect casual layering piece," Beddingfield says. "Added stretch gives the jacket a lived in, comfortable feel that makes it the go-to layer in your closet you’ll turn to time and time again."

Chore jackets are a versatile and classic option for any wardrobe, but New York City-based men's personal stylist Turner Allen is particularly fond of this version from Alex Mill. "Unlike the usual blue twill chore jackets, this one seamlessly blends utility with your favorite vintage jeans' lived-in comfort and style," Allen says.

"I love this jacket," says Nashville-based stylist Bentley Caldwell. The glossy dark-wash version of this jacket means you can dress it up if you want." For a cooler take on business casual, Caldwell recommends forgoing a traditional suit jacket and instead opting for this denim one.

You've heard of a matcha latte, but how about matcha denim? From Canadian denim artisans Naked & Famous comes this roomy Matcha Selvedge jacket. "With so many brands offering their take on the classic denim trucker jacket, it's refreshing to discover one that truly stands out," Allen says. "What sets this jacket apart is its innovative use of real Japanese green tea to dye the interior wefts, giving it a rich, earthy green hue." Allen adds that as the jacket ages, this green hue will start to show itself more, creating "a one-of-a-kind look that redefines the standard denim trucker jacket."

Transitional seasons are all about the layers and Lamb likes this Central Park West shacket as an add-on to your regular fall wear. "I love the interesting detail of the breast pocket to give the jacket a unique touch, especially when styling it with fall outfits," she says. For styling, Lamb says you can wear this with a white tee and similar colored jeans for a cool denim-on-denim look.

Inspired by vintage workwear and made of Japanese denim, Caldwell loves the lighter Leeland wash of this RRL jacket. "This jacket is classic Americana from the Ralph Lauren brand," Caldwell says. "As it ages and gets worn in, it just looks and feels better and better! If you only have one denim jacket in your wardrobe, let it be this one."

"The classic, oversize denim jacket is my go-to pick for fall styling," Lamb says. "It is incredibly versatile and perfect for layering over a workout set, pairing with a cozy sweater and black trousers or throwing on while traveling. I love the lighter wash of this to give it a worn in look, making it easy to style for the season."