EmRata’s Perfect Spring Jacket Is From Mango, Which Is Music To Our Ears

I know it doesn't entirely feel like spring just yet. I'm still wearing tights, for one. But spring it officially is and, I have to say, it's the most exciting changing-of-the-seasons of any year. Why? I think it has something to do with the promise; the promise of better weather, longer days and a wardrobe of spring outfits that don't have to consist of weather-proof pieces chosen for their practicality rather than their beauty. And that means, my friends, that we can stop swaddling ourselves in endless layers of wool, faux fur and anything waterproof and instead embrace the most promising of all sartorial gems: the spring jacket.

Of course, there are jackets and coats which always feel right for spring. From trench coats to denim jackets to a classic Barbour, these outer layers never go out of style and always feel bang on the money after the clocks have gone forward. For 2024, however, there are some slight twists on these perennials, like cropped shapes and oversized fits. Really, though, it's about finding styles which fit your wardrobe and make you feel great – whatever the weather.

If that means embracing the bomber jacket renaissance, so be it (EmRata has already emerged as a fan of Mango's, which is still available to shop for £349.99). Or maybe you can't quite face the idea of ditching a coat for a jacket and therefore just want a more lightweight, perhaps more colourful version of your trusty winter cover-up. Either way, you can keep scrolling to find the very best spring jackets that you'll want to wear from now until October, at least.

The Timeless Trench

I know, a trench coat is about as groundbreaking as a floral print for spring but there's a reason it never goes out of style. When you find the best fit, it's the most flattering, versatile and practical coat you could possibly hope to wear.

The Bomber Jacket

Bombers are back – and they've had a glossy, grown-up makeover. Of course, you can still chuck them on with jeans and trainers but, for real 2024 vibes, try with polished pencil skirts and preppy shirts or pair them with high-waisted, wide-leg trousers and loafers.

The Wax Jacket

No longer just a country casual, a wax jacket is ideal for spring and all its climate may throw at us. Plus, not only does it always look good with jeans and a lightweight knit, it can also be dressed up à la Alexa Chung.

The Oversized Blazer

Even if you're just wearing your favourite jeans and trainers (just like this street styler) a trusty blazer will bring your outfit to life. Look for oversized, structured fits and wear with everything from midi dresses to this season's capri pants (yes, really).

The Leather Jacket

I know I'm not reinventing the wheel here but spring really is the leather jacket's time to shine. Eva Chen looks picture-perfect in her long-line style (from Ukrainian brand Litkovska) which she's paired with flared jeans and boots, which is the look I'll be attempting to recreate for the next three months.

The Denim Jacket

I somehow overlook the style prowess of denim jackets and yet they remain a key tool for layering, as well as creating more interesting outfits that have a bit of an edge. Gigi Hadid, for example, threw this MVP Wardrobejacket over simple black trousers and black top with red Converse and suddenly it was a look with more to say than you'd expect. For the easiest outfit, embrace double denim and wear buttoned-up with your favourite jeans.

The Quilted Jacket

A quilted cotton jacket is to spring what faux fur is to winter. From embroidered styles to colourful patchwork, they'll enliven any outfit and make you feel sunny even if it's raining. Particularly good with high-waisted trousers, you can afford to keep the rest of your outfit fairly plain with one of these cover-ups.

What coat is best for spring?

While there is no one style of coat you need to know for spring, it's best to look for lightweight materials like cotton or linen to allow breathability and maximum comfort. Naturally, in the UK, we can't depend on brilliant weather but the beauty of a more lightweight jacket is that you can layer it over jumpers or even other jackets for extra warmth.

When should you stop wearing winter coats?

There's no hard and fast rule on this, especially when the weather still feels cold and rainy well into April. But I normally live by the rule that, by the time it's officially spring (this year, that day was 20th March), it's absolutely appropriate to switch winter layers for something more optimistic.

Hannah Banks-Walker is Grazia's head of fashion commerce. She has previously written for the likes of Harper's Bazaar, The Financial Times Glamour, Stylist, The Telegraph, Red, i-D and The Pool on everything from fashion to curly hair (hi!) to the patriarchy. Not necessarily in that order. Find her on Instagram and Twitter. But please don't look for her MySpace profile, which until now was the last time she wrote about herself in the third person.