The key to seamless style is layering. With London’s unpredictable summers – too hot one moment, too cold the next – layering is perhaps the easiest way to make your outfit look chic and sophisticated. So how do you escape the fashion quandary of elevating your outfit while staying cool? With a few styling hacks and a few key pieces, like a quilted jacket, the answer is yes.
Lightweight and stylish, the possibilities are endless with a quilted jacket. Wear it on its own or over a loose shirt for a statement finish in warmer months, protect from summer breezes, or layer it over a knit for a cozy look in winter. Luckily, fashion houses—style setters—around the world are embracing the versatility of the quilted jacket. From Frankie Shop’s cult-favorite ripstop padded jacket to Burberry’s minimalist styles that epitomize quiet luxury, designers are putting their own spin on the outerwear staple. Not sure where to start? Read on for our picks for the best quilted jackets you can buy now and wear all year round.
It’s not easy to achieve cult status year after year, and yet this tonal green jacket has been a wardrobe staple since 2021. Made from ripstop that’s padded enough to keep you warm but not overheated on the subway, its boxy fit and collarless neckline are flattering to anyone. Team it with flared jeans and ballet flats (we’re loving Miu Miu’s ballerinas) for a chic look.
£245
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Preppy style is back in style, you know that? But if you’re not ready to rock your school polo shirts and pleated skirts just yet, add a subtle preppy touch to your look with this Ralph Lauren quilted jacket. The mock-neck jacket has an adjustable faux leather buckled waist tab and is lined with a waterproof shell. Wear it with a crisp white shirt, tailored trousers and loafers.
£279
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Sea looks to vintage design as inspiration for her playful print pieces, such as this vibrant quilted jacket. Made from floral patchwork cotton and featuring a subtle tie and navy trim, it’s comfortable, stylish, and evocative of 1960s hippie fashion (in the best way). Wear it on its own with denim or throw it over a loose summer dress for a statement look.
£610
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We love transformative fashion. Think reversible shirts, versatile dresses, and this convertible quilted jacket from Marant Étoile. Featuring an abstract violet print, this jacket features padded shoulders and detachable sleeves, and can also be worn as a vest. Modern and chic, it’s a jacket you’ll want to wear all year round, in all weather conditions.
£550
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Any seasoned Brit will know the fashion dilemmas that come with the unpredictable British summer: you plan a day out and you never know whether you’ll be met with a downpour or scorching heat. Luckily, heritage British brand Burberry is trying to solve that problem with a high-tech temperature-regulating jacket that promises to keep you warm when it’s breezy and cool when it’s hot. And the slim-fitting design also looks good, which is just an added bonus.
£890
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Prada first launched its Re-Nylon collection of bags made from reclaimed nylon from ocean waste, landfills, and industrial waste in 2019. The collection was so successful that the brand has since expanded the sustainable line to footwear and ready-to-wear. We’re big fans of the modern, boxy finish of this quilted jacket, complete with a corduroy collar and triangular logo appliqué.
£2,200
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Once the preserve of City bankers, the gilet has recently become a staple for women, seen on fashionistas like Hailey Bieber and Sienna Miller, thanks to high-fashion versions from Bottega Veneta and Maison Margiela. For spring/summer 2024, consider this quilted version from British brand Wise. Made from soft Borg fabric and cut for a relaxed fit, we love the ecru shade that can be worn with any outfit.
£195
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Hill House Home has risen to the fashion ranks with its stunning Nap Dress, but its other pieces are just as feminine and easy to wear. We particularly love the Blake Jacket, with its bell sleeves, pearl buttons and ruffled collar. Pair it with an elegant midi dress and wedge heels to wear to a summer party.
£220
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Bright and fun, Hackney-based brand Kitri’s reversible jacket, Theodora, features large hand-painted flowers on one side and a dainty yellow floral pattern on the other, all edged with a vibrant red border. Team it with a matching summer dress and wide-brimmed sunhat for some dopamine dressing this coming summer holiday.
£195
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Read more: Best Suede Jackets for Women
