From left to right, Prada’s, Ralph Lauren’s and Mango’s take on the barn jacket.
By Janet Kelly
KATIE Holmes and Kate Middleton are fans; so was the late Queen Elizabeth. The influential Miuccia Prada signaled her endorsement in her spring 2024 collection. Meanwhile, it’s one of Tim Walz’s signatures. Yes, I’m talking about barn jackets—the outerwear trend that’s everywhere and can be worn over just about anything.
First designed for farm workers, the functional barn jacket, made from heavy-duty canvas (often waxed) and lined in flannel, will keep you warm and dry. Deep patch pockets meant for storing farm tools can easily accommodate keys, phones, glasses, doggie bags, etc. You can throw it over a chunky knit and jeans for pooch-walking duties, but that doesn’t mean your inner preppy can’t wear it over a pleated skirt and loafers or ballet flats for a holiday do.
Brands from Uniqlo and Orvis to J. Crew, Alex Mill and Barbour all have their versions. Here are ones I’m excited about:
The Prada barn jacket—from the 2024 spring runway—that “fashionized” a classic utilitarian look and inspired me to take another look.
I frequently find things in the men’s clothing department I’d gladly wear if only they came in women’s sizes. With this 1950s-inspired men’s barn jacket, I can come close by ordering one size down from my regular size small—a men’s extra small—for an oversized fit. If I preferred a more fitted look, I’d size down further to a men’s extra-extra small. It also comes in black. Either way, the red tartan plaid lining is fetching.
For one thing, a Barbour jacket, beloved as it is by the British Royals, nails the stealth-wealth look. It’s also practical. The water-repellent waxed cotton fabric keeps you dry and warm and when it gets colder, you can zip in a Barbour fleece-lined vest and/or snap on a hood. Or save some bucks—the jacket is roomy enough to layer over your own cozy sweater.
Orvis’s canvas jacket is not waxed; rather it’s been washed for softer feel. I’d size up so I could fit a vest and sweater underneath. When I’m out walking with friends, I don’t want to lug a handbag, but want to carry cards, maybe sunscreen and a lip balm in the likely event we stop for coffee or something, so all the pockets are my pals. Did I mention I love the red color (it also comes in two others).
Oversized Waxed Country Jacket
Me + Em mixes a modern, oversized fit with plush corduroy trims. Try wearing it with leather leggings—here’s a gorgeous pair. For balance, add a chunky sweater on top.
Prada borrowed from the boys for the very oversized silhouette on this jacket with distressed details. Note the pairing with the flapper-ish top.
Ralph Lauren Quilted Barn Jacket
Ralph Lauren ups the ante on the traditional barn jacket with quilting that’s trimmed in corduroy and an adjustable back belt for a closer fit.
Talbots Quilted Barn Jacket
Of course you can wear this quilted jacket (also available in three other colors) with jeans but you could also embrace your inner preppy and pair it with a midi plaid skirt and ballet flats.
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