Every stylista knows that a perfect cover-up is the ultimate wardrobe enhancer, and none more so than the Jacket. A beautiful jacket adds that touch of sophistication when paired with other pieces; from cut-off shorts and jeans to dresses while carefully (and not obviously) creating a lovely silhouette.
Living in the tropics means that jackets hardly take that much closet space, but still, those that stick their nose up at people that like to wear jackets in the Philippines are silly mainly because they are ignorant about fashion or afraid they will look like they are trying too hard. We wear jackets because it is cold yes, but we also wear jackets because it streamlines a look. And besides, there is always one for every season or occasion.
Ideally, one should have at least one classic statement piece in the closet (Chanel alert), but that doesn’t mean you can’t play around with more affordable ones that allow a person to experiment with trends. And speaking of trends, everyone seems to be sporting one these days from Manila’s top model Isabel Daza to the darling of showbiz, Heart Evangelista. And if you want to catch on, let me help you find one that will work for you.
Cropped:
Try a cropped jacket a la Rachel Bilson. Cropped jackets emphasize the waist so choose one that sits right on your natural waistline. Always choose a single breasted style as any other will make a person look too chunky.
Tuxedo:
This is easily my favorite as nothing lends drama to a dressy ensemble better than a men’s-style tuxedo jacket. The masculine silhouette paired with an ultra feminine dress is a winner combination and Gwyneth Paltrow definitely knows how to work this formula on the red carpet.
Boyfriend:
Probably the biggest trend right now, single or double breasted, this oversize jacket looks best with the sleeves rolled up and with a more casual get-up. This style is a throwback from the ’80s and although shoulder pads are rocking the runways, it’s probably best to sit that part out and learn from the mistakes of decades past—and instead take a cue from Kate Bosworth on how to make the look more now.
Military:
This style can vary in shape, from short to long, fitted to loose—but always involves epaulets and brass/silver button details. There’s one for every type of figure, but if you have narrow shoulders or just want to toughen up a look like Beyonce, the military is the one best suited for you.
Bomber:
A zip front style often in leather with a slight blouson shape, it tapers at the wrist and right below the waist. Sexy and tough, everyone should have one, just like Hayden Panettiere. But if you feel leather is too much for Manila, which by the way, it is NOT, then get one in a very dark wash of denim for (almost) the same effect.
There is a plethora of jacket cuts available which means you’ll always find one that works for you, but remember that when it comes to jackets, fit should always come first. Everything else just follows.
Comments, questions, suggestions? Please e-mail me at celine_gabriel_column@yahoo.com. For more fashion tips and advice on a more daily basis, you can follow me on Twitter: celine_gabriel
