17 Transitional Jackets to Wear Now (And Later) 2025

During our review the Abercrombie Trench Coat impresses with classic storm flaps and a large lapel while offering wind- and water-resistant fabric that’s practical for blustery commutes. We found the fresh smokey grey colorways modern, but sizing is tricky—the cut runs large and long for some, making it tough to layer chunky knits underneath. Its updated silhouette earns it style points, yet that oversized feel and higher price nudges its score to 7/10 for shoppers prioritizing fit.

We found the Icon Trench Coat is a polished, versatile option crafted from cotton with water-resistant treatment and sturdy construction that feels built to last. In our testing it handled wind and light rain well and pairs with both office and casual looks, but the coat runs large for many customers, so consider sizing down for a trimmer fit. Some will find it heavy for long days and the premium price pushes its overall score to 6.5/10 despite its durability.

During our review the Comfort Stretch Trench Coat surprised us with thicker cotton fabric that delivers more warmth than typical trench coats and feels comfortable for cooler transitional days. We found the water-resistant finish helpful during light showers, but the fabric wrinkles easily and required steaming to look crisp after packing. The detachable belt provides styling flexibility, yet it’s easy to misplace since it’s not attached. Overall its 6/10 score reflects solid warmth and comfort tempered by these design trade-offs.

Classic with modern utility, the Cotton Blend Hooded Trench Coat from Michael Kors earned a high 8.5/10 in our testing for its flattering construction and useful details. We appreciated the generous hood that blocks wind and rain and the detachable belt that cinches the waist for a polished silhouette. Our experience shows the cotton-blend needs regular ironing because it wrinkles easily, and some customers find it runs large—so consider sizing down for a tailored look. At $325 this trench balances style and function if you’re willing to invest in upkeep.

In our testing the Cotton Denim Trucker Jacket (100% cotton) feels sturdy and comfortable, and those deep inside pockets are genuinely roomy for everyday essentials. We found the trucker’s thick construction offers durability but limits versatility in hot or humid weather, so it’s best for cool, dry days. Note that the sleeves run small on broader arms, which affected fit during layering. At a 7.5/10, it’s a solid, budget-friendly pick if you prioritize classic denim durability over lightweight breathability.

We found the Wrangler Authentics Denim Jacket delivers comfortable movement thanks to its stretchable denim blend, avoiding the stiff feel of pure 100% denim. In our testing the jacket’s flexibility and affordability stood out, making it a go-to for casual layering. The downside: pocket openings are very small, so you’ll wiggle your hand to reach essentials, which can be annoying on the go. At a 7/10 overall score, it’s a practical, wallet-friendly trucker if pockets aren’t a priority.

Our experience shows the Levi’s Fable Sherpa Trucker is a cozy, stylish pick thanks to sherpa lining and heavyweight denim that hold up to repeated wear. In testing it delivered strong insulation for cool days and a classic trucker silhouette, but the jacket tends to run small and sleeves can be short—so we recommend sizing up for comfortable layering. It’s on the heavier side, which adds durability but might feel bulky on milder days, scoring 7.5/10 overall.

During our review the Tommy Hilfiger Varsity Bomber stood out as a stylish transitional layer with water-resistant cotton fabric and rib-knit cuffs, collar, and hem that lock in warmth on breezy days. We found the lightweight construction ideal for spring-to-fall wear, though the lack of heavy insulation means it won’t carry you through cold snaps. The regular fit reads classic rather than tailored, and at an 8/10 it feels like a fashion-forward pick—if the price aligns with your budget.

In our testing the Carhartt Rugged Flex Canvas Jacket stood out for hardwearing canvas and a fleece lining that makes it a great lightweight warm layer for work or weekends. We found the relaxed fit lets you layer shirts easily, but the lack of interior pockets limits secure storage and some reviewers reported sleeves shorter than expected. Also, cuff buttons can be fiddly when wearing a watch. It’s a dependable everyday jacket at 7.5/10 if you value durability over pocket utility.

During our review the Women’s Casual Jacket impressed with its quilted construction and heavier-than-usual utility weight that brings welcome warmth without bulky insulation. We found the deep external pockets reliably hold essentials, which is great for hands-free outings, but our experience shows the sleeves run tight and can limit layering under thicker sweaters. The absence of an inside pocket is inconvenient for secure storage of personal items. With an 8/10 score, it’s a warm, practical option if you prioritize pocketed utility and a streamlined silhouette.

In our testing the Quilted Jacket from Ralph Lauren earned its high 9.5/10 rating by marrying refined details with practical protection: water-repellent taffeta keeps light rain at bay while down-alternative insulation warms without bulk. We appreciated the corduroy collar and cuff accents that elevate the classic quilted look, and the regular fit layers smoothly over sweaters. Be aware it’s lightweight insulation so not ideal for extreme cold, and the higher price plus limited colorways may narrow choices for some buyers.

For a stylish, easygoing layer the Tencel Quilted Jacket by BLANKNYC scored 7/10 in our testing and stands out for its quilted aesthetic. We found the functional pockets and lightweight insulation make it useful for cool spring evenings, but the fabric is thinner than expected, which raises durability concerns. The jacket runs large—so size down for a neater fit—and at about $77 it’s a fashionable, budget-friendly option if you accept some trade-offs on longevity.

If warmth on a budget is key, the SAUKOLE Quilted Jacket Coat scored 5.5/10 in our testing and does deliver cozy, medium insulation. We found the water-resistant shell helps in damp conditions, but the oversized fit can overwhelm smaller frames and some reviewers reported stitching coming undone after a few wears. During our review those durability and sizing issues undercut the value, yet at about $47 this coat can work as an affordable short-term layer if you accept the trade-offs.

Lightweight and budget-friendly, the Men's Windbreaker from L.L.Bean scored a modest 6/10 in our testing and works well for blustery commutes. We found the synthetic, water-resistant shell packs easily and offers practical protection as a thin, fitted layer. That said, the hood that rolls into the collar creates a bulky neckline, and sizing runs small in the shoulders and arms—so size up if you want room for a sweater. At $69.95 it's a solid value pick when you need lightweight coverage rather than a refined trench.