My Wardrobe Was Missing a Casual Summer Jacket, so I’ve Found the Best Out There

As we round the corner towards the final stretch of summer, I've been digging though my wardrobe in search of those hero transitional items to tide me over until the seasons change.

I'm already wearing jeans on the regular and have am partial to layering an oversized shirt on top of a tank top, but as we creep towards September I'm looking for something a little hardier in the outwear department.

In my eyes, the perfect casual summer jacket is lightweight enough to carry in your bag or over your shoulders during the midday sun, but warm enough to keep you cosy when day turns to night.

There are a few styles I call upon to do the job. A lightweight trench makes for ideal outerwear either side of the peak of summer, and a trusty denim jacket looks equally great paired with denim shorts as it does a maxi dress. Luckily, you don't have to look far to find an option to suit your taste and budget. Up and down the high street as well as across luxury brands, retailers have perfected their offerings.

Whether your version of casual sees you styling a blazer with jeans instead of trousers, or you're on the look out for an oversized bomber jacket for weekend days, read on to discover our favourite casual jackets to see you through the rest of summer.

1. Transitional Trench:

Style Notes: There's no better option to fair a drizzly summer day than a trench. Worn with jeans, smart trousers or a plain white tank, a sweeping trench is the effortlessly chic way to master summer layering.

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2. Easy Bomber

Style Notes: You can't help but feel cool when wearing a bomber. The utilitarian style lends itself to styling with chunky boots on rainy days, but we love juxtaposing the look with a pair of slingbacks or strappy sandals—weather permitting.

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3. Summer Denim

Style Notes: In my opinion, there's no jacket style more perfect for late summer evenings than a classic denim jacket. Cropped or longline, any style goes.

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4. Relaxed Blazers

Style Notes: Blazers remain current—especially in natural fabrics such as linen and cotton—and we continue to wear ours throughout the warmer months when things get a little chilly. For a casual twist, pair an oversized blazer with denim and plenty of accessories.

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5. Utility Jacket

Style Notes: Cropped and packed with pockets, a utility jacket is as useful as it is stylish. Available in cord, cotton and more, these practical jackets are made for layering with skirts, dresses and jeans. Opt for a vibrant colour to make your jacket do all the styling work for you.

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This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.