The 7 Must-Have Fall Jackets for Men in 2026

As the seasons shift and the leaves begin to fall, there’s nothing quite like the warm comfort of new outerwear to ease the melancholic mornings of autumn. Selecting the perfect jacket for the transition from fall to winter can be challenging. Choose one that’s too light, and you’ll feel the chill of those crisp November mornings. On the other hand, relying on a heavy winter coat may leave you sweating most of the time. The ideal solution lies in finding jackets that strike a balance—perfectly suited for layering, they’re versatile enough to adapt to the fluctuating autumn weather.

This year, we’ve curated a list of our top transitional jacket styles, each bringing a unique flair to your wardrobe. Below, we highlight these must-have pieces and why they should be on your radar this season.

Suede Bomber

Luca Faloni

While autumn may be the wettest season, incorporating suede into your outerwear repertoire can introduce a stylish texture to your fall outfits. The suede bomber is a personal favorite due to its relaxed fit and luxurious feel, making it suitable for both smart and casual occasions. Pair it with a simple t-shirt, jeans, and sneakers for a polished look, or use it to dress down tailored pants and knitwear.

Just be sure to protect the suede adequately, and remember, if inclement weather is on the horizon, choose a more suitable option.

Wool Overshirt

ASKET

Overshirts are undeniably versatile and perfect for every season, especially during the transitional months. While many are crafted from cotton, opting for wool can add warmth and style to your wardrobe. With a textured finish, a wool overshirt pairs elegantly with heavy knitwear, fleece jackets, and boots.

Brands like A Day’s March and Universal Works offer excellent options, as does Wax London, which features sustainable options made from recycled cotton.

Waxed Motorcycle Jacket

Belstaff

While leather biker jackets are classic, the charm of a waxed motorcycle jacket brings a distinctly British flair to any outfit. It’s practical, stylish, and designed to last a lifetime—assuming you invest in a quality piece.

If you’re in the market for a timeless option, Belstaff stands out as the premier brand for this style, boasting a heritage that includes icons like James Bond and Steve McQueen. Though these jackets come with a higher price tag, consider the long-term value, as they could be staples in your wardrobe for decades.

If a waxed jacket is your preference but you desire a less motorcycle-centric style, Barbour offers a fantastic lineup, rooted in English quality and durability for over a century.

Lightweight Down Jacket

Uniqlo

Save the bulky puffer jackets for winter; this lightweight down option is perfect for autumn. Its packable design, comfort, and slim profile make it ideal for layering. Outdoor enthusiasts have long recognized the advantages of lightweight down jackets, which provide warmth without the bulk, making them easy to transport when not in use.

Uniqlo offers excellent budget-friendly options without sacrificing style, making these jackets versatile and easy to integrate into your wardrobe.

Thick-Pile Fleece

Wax London

While materials like wool, corduroy, and heavyweight denim add depth to your fall attire, nothing compares to the comfort of a thick, heavy-pile fleece jacket. Recently, fleece jackets, particularly models like Patagonia’s iconic Retro-X, have regained considerable popularity, riding the wave of the ever-evolving ‘gorpcore’ trend, which centers on stylish outdoor-inspired looks.

Due to their bulky nature, thick-pile fleeces work best layered on top of hoodies and knitwear. For those who still wish to layer, oversized outerwear such as parkas or overcoats works effectively, although it’s best to reserve that for the colder winter months to avoid overheating.

Cold-Weather Chore Coat

Todd Snyder

A reliable chore jacket isn’t just functional; it’s stylish and rugged, making it a must-have for your wardrobe. This autumn, consider breaking away from traditional cotton twill in favor of materials like wool, corduroy, or quilted nylon for a cozier experience. These fabrics not only provide warmth but also add a tactile dimension to your outfits.

Style your chore coat with other workwear staples, including moc-toe work boots, thick flannels, and heavyweight tees, for a timeless look.

Checked Overcoat

Reiss

This fall, as the world transforms into a palette of warm hues, elevate your outfits with thoughtfully patterned outerwear. A spacious overcoat can effortlessly blend with almost anything in your closet, bringing a sophisticated touch even to casual looks. You can pair it with tailored pieces or even joggers, providing exceptional versatility.

Opt for checked fabrics in seasonal colors and don’t hesitate to invest in a durable piece that will enhance your wardrobe for years to come.