Relaxed jackets and longline blazers have had their fair share of time on the runways and on the racks of your favourite high street shops. Not that I'm complaining—I personally always layer up in looser fits and baggier jackets, especially when autumn and winter roll around. However, there's one silhouette that's stolen my attention this year: cropped jackets.
The short and sharp shape ultimately makes these styles of jackets far more sleek than their lengthier counterparts. And you can find them in almost any material and style—whether you love a classic tweed look or prefer the slick sheen of a biker jacket. What completely solidifies them as a staple is that they can slide neatly into countless outfits. Shorter jackets pair well with dresses, billowy trousers and wide leg jeans.
Whilst it's been some time since we've seen cropped styles fully command our attention, the new season has clearly started their resurgence. I've curated a list of the best-dressed folks we follow on Instagram for picture-perfect examples of how to work the best cropped jackets into your wardrobe this autumn and beyond.
The Best Cropped Jackets for Autumn 2024:
1. Denim
Style Notes: A cropped denim jacket is the perfect way to play with proportions, whether you're working with wide-leg jeans or a denim midi skirt. The boxy frame looks great with only a few buttons buttoned up, as Monikh has expertly done here, and it's a key piece for creating a chic double denim look.
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Try a double-denim look by pairing this with your favourite light-wash jeans.
I'm seeing this deep shade of denim everywhere lately.
Perfect if you love a distressed hem.
2. Trench
Style Notes: A trench will forever have a spot in our closets here at Who What Wear, but for a contemporary spin on the classic, a cropped version ticks all the boxes. Aniyah Morinia perfected the look and paired hers with white jeans and black boots. You can slot this into nearly any outfit where you'd wear a short or long trench for a fresh take.
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The two-button closure makes this feel like a very well-thought-out cropped jacket.
A black version from the most iconic trench brand out there.
Mix denim and trench styles in one chic cropped jacket.
3. Leather
Style Notes: If you're after a sophisticated jacket that will outlast any trend cycle, look no further than a leather jacket—faux or real. Marianne's brown top is sleek, minimal and so versatile, whether you copy her chic barrel leg denim ensemble or layer it over top of a slip dress.
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Currently on my wish list.
This unique jacket is actually 100% cotton, but it has a sleek coating that makes it look like leather.
The rounded pockets and collar give this edgy jacket a nice softness.
4. Blazer
Style Notes: If your blazer has been feeling blasé as of late, switch it out for a cropped style instead. As Dawn Tan's sophisticated outfit proves, you still retain the elevated air that comes from throwing a blazer on but this rendition gives your outfit a fresher energy.
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You can't go wrong with a black blazer.
This blazer is fitted throughout rather than the usual boxy cut.
Navy lends the same versatility to your outfits as other neutrals.
5. Tweed
Style Notes: Tweed jackets are the definition of polished, and cropped ones feel even more so. If you typically shy away from these styles, it's worth testing the waters with a cropped one as it offers the same sharp structure but in a cut that feels fit for today. Abisola's ensemble nails the this look, which can easily go from the office to dinner after, thanks to the addition of wide-leg denim and flats.
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You can't go wrong with black.
Wear with white jeans, dark-wash jeans, wide-leg trousers and over dresses.
This French tweed is the epitome of cosy.
6. Biker
Style Notes: Similar to a cropped leather jacket is the timeless biker style. Where other leather jackets normally have buttons or more minimal silhouettes, these edgier versions have zippers, buckles and snaps. Learn from Marilyn's modernised noughties-inspired look and pair your cropped biker with loose-fit, low-rise denim and a structured handbag.
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This looks designer without the price to match.
An investment you'll never get tired of.
A suede bomber style if you prefer warmer tones.
7. Country
Style Notes: Barn jackets (otherwise known as country or wax jackets) are everywhere this season, but to make your own mark on the trend, opt for a cropped style. These look particularly chic with high-waisted trousers or over midi dresses.
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I just love this £60 style from an unlikely high-street favourite!
Honestly, I'm shocked this isn't out of stock yet.
The cord collar really elevates this style.
