Summer’s Favorite Jackets – The Perfect Third Layer for Blazing Hot Days and Breezy Nights

Do you ever find it difficult to stay cool in the summer heat…but then also sometimes it’s just too cool? Summer brings with it a mix of scorching days and breezy evenings…which leaves us somewhere between blasting AC and reaching for an extra layer when the sun sets. This is where the perfect summery third layer comes in. Embracing the art of layering can be your ticket to navigating those gnarly temperature swings, yet still looking chic and seasonally appropriate. We’re sharing 5 versatile, must-have summer jackets to keep you stylishly comfortable from dawn to dusk. These are your “don’t leave home without it” effortless pieces.

If you haven’t yet checked out our Summer Capsule Wardrobe and Summer Vacation Lookbook, they are full of outfit inspiration! You’ll find them here and here.

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Must-Have Summer Jackets

#1) Twill Jacket 

When it comes to a great layering piece for summer, Erin was more than pleasantly surprised with this Paige twill jacket. First off, the fabric is the perfect weight for summer. And it’s also the ideal color…soft beige. You can wear it with everything from white or blue jeans to dresses to shorts. This jacket is really flattering with dresses and high-waisted pants or jeans because of the cropped length. But don’t let the “cropped” description intimidate you. It hits just below the natural waist making your legs appear longer and adding some waist definition. This jacket is a great alternative for those of you who love the look and versatility of a denim jacket but don’t love the denim-on-denim look.

#2) Denim Jacket 

But…if you DO love a denim jacket, a lighter wash jacket for summer is a great wardrobe staple! Here, Erin is wearing the Ada jacket by Retrofete. It has a little bit of spandex in it so it stretches with you and doesn’t feel constricting like some heavier denim can. Similar to #1, it has more of a flattering cropped fit. It comes in a few different washes here and has modern details like the puffed shoulders and adjustable back strap with buckle to really cinch in your waist. It is on the pricier side but we found a very similar option for less and linked it below. Denim jackets look great with all your summer staples and provide just a touch of coverage when you are in and out of the frigid air conditioning.

If you’re looking for some fresh ways to style your favorite denim jacket, make sure you check out this post next. It’s loaded with outfit inspo!

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#3) Cropped Trench

Whether you live in a rainy climate or just appreciate the chic look of a trench, this cropped Steve Madden jacket is for you. It’s perfect for travel days and adds a touch of sophistication to a simple jeans and t-shirt or lounge outfit like Erin’s wearing in her travel look above. It has a double-breasted silhouette which looks super cool left open, button straps at the cuff, and classic epaulets at the shoulder. This is the perfect all-season trench because it’s very lightweight for warmer months, but since it has a relaxed fit you can also layer a sweater underneath it come fall.

STYLE TIP: Drape your summer third layer over your shoulders for an extra chic, distinct, and confident look!

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#4) Summer Blazers

If you’ve been a subscriber for a while, you know that blazers are one of Erin’s favorite third layers. They effortlessly add understated and stylish sophistication to the simplest of looks. T-shirt and shorts, jeans and a tank, simple maxi dress…just add the blazer and violá, SO chic. Some fabrics to seek out with your blazers in the warmer months are linen, cotton blends, and lightweight denim. All four of the blazers Erin’s wearing above are in stock and are frequently in her summer outfit rotation. We’ll link them all along with a few other favorites below!

#5) Lightweight Cardigan

OK, not really a “jacket” per se, but a lightweight cardigan is a wonderful third layer for summer. Since it’s less bulky than a traditional denim or twill jacket, you can easily toss it in your tote and break it out if you’re moving into a heavily air-conditioned room or just want something to throw over your shoulders on chilly evenings. You’ll want to look for breathable fabrics like cotton or cotton blends. And neutral or light colors will certainly offer more of a summertime vibe. The striped cardigan Erin’s wearing above is from last summer but we found a super similar one and we’ll link a few others we love too…

We’ve been featuring some of these pieces over on Instagram and LTK so they might look familiar! If you’ve purchased any of them and have thoughts to share, please leave us a comment below!

When it comes to summer fashion and travel we have a ton of exciting content coming your way in the next few weeks. By becoming a subscriber, you’ll be the first to know about Erin’s trips, favorite finds, new style resources, sales (The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is coming!), and more. If you’re interested, you can sign up here.

Thanks for stopping by!