Thanks to Prada, the barn jacket has been elevated to transitional essential—the label’s spring/summer 2024 collectsion included a parade of them in navy, bordeaux, army green and caramel with an oversized fit. While mens’ barn jackets (a.k.a chore coats) originated in ’20s as utilitarian workwear, they’ve since been adopted for daily use and become a fixture in the wardrobes of everyone from the British royal family to Gigi Hadid. The jacket’s design details—the boxy silhouette, multiple pockets, button or snap closures, leather and cord collar, as well as its waxed, durable waterproof fabric—make it perfectly practical, but also give it its distinct no-fuss, unpretentious look. The simplicity and versatility of the jacket is akin to that of jeans.
Vogue’s Favorite Barn Jackets:
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It isn’t any wonder that when practical heritage wardrobe pieces are all the rage—polo tops, cargo trousers, boat shoes and loafers—that the barn jacket would remain a star for spring, especially when Mrs. Prada and Raf Simons say so. The jacket has also been reinterpreted by The Row, Toteme, and contemporary brands like Everlane and Alex Mill. It makes for the perfect transitional piece thanks to its straightforward design, and is one that can be styled in a personal and playful way. For a few ideas on how to wear it right now, scroll below.
Wear With Elevated Essentials
A barn jacket teamed up with slim-leg trousers and black pumps brings edge to your everyday office uniform.
Dress Down Ladylike Shapes
A relaxed fit gets Milanese flair when paired with a striped button-down and pleated skirt. Butter yellow pony-hair flats offer unexpected feminine contrast.
Out of the Box
Prada’s purposefully distressed canvas jacket plays well with opposites, like a fringed and embroidered satin midi dress and diamanté pumps.
Play With Proportions
Slim separates like leggings and soft ballet flats balance out the jacket’s oversized fit.
