Not Too Much, Not Too Little: These Lightweight Coats Are Just Right for Fall

Layering is arguably the best part about fall outfits, and the first step to achieving a stylish layered look is getting a lightweight coat, of course. Outerwear that you can easily throw over a chunky knit or a T-shirt is the key to transitional dressing, but the most important thing? You don't want a coat that's super thick and toasty in the early days of fall when the weather can vary so drastically. When you overestimate the temperature, you'll just end up profusely sweating underneath all that insulation. Trust me—I've been there. Conversely, you don't want to be shivering when those crisp fall breezes pick up. A lightweight style will keep you perfectly bundled, preventing you from overheating or getting goosebumps.
I went ahead and rounded up 30 of them to wear this fall, including ones with quilted textures and plaid prints as well as single-breasted silhouettes and classic trench coats. If you want your lightweight coat to be your whole outfit, there are statement pieces in the mix that fit the bill. If you want something more subdued that'll go with all your fall outfits, you'll find staples here too. Keep scrolling for all the best coats that are just right.
Linen isn't just a summer material. For those fall days when it's still a bit warm, add this breezy trench to your outfit for some cool layering.
For that "roaming around the English countryside" look, this barn coat will accomplish just that.
If you're ready to invest in a quality leather jacket, I'll always suggest that you go with the Balfern from AllSaints.
You can't beat the deal on a reversible jacket—two for the price of one.
When your outerwear fits a tad loose, it makes any ensemble look effortless.
You already know that we're obsessed with this Toteme scarf-coat.
The contrast trim and collar combined with the gold hardware add a certain elegance to this waxed-cotton number.
This jacket looks like it costs at least $500 more than it does.
Lauren Adhav is a freelance fashion editor based in Los Angeles. Originally from Orlando, Florida, she got her start as the beauty and fashion editorial assistant at Cosmopolitan and worked her way up to fashion editor. She contributed to both the website and print issues, pitching new ideas, forecasting trends, covering red carpet events, and informing the overall coverage and brand voice.
After five years in NYC, she moved to Los Angeles. As a freelance fashion editor, she contributes to Cosmo, The Cut, and now Who What Wear. She also spends an unhealthy amount of time online shopping for the perfect piece, and now that she's in L.A., she's rediscovering her soft spot for malls.
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