How to Style a Barn Jacket and Look Instantly Chic This Fall
It seems like fashion is feeling nostalgic for Queen Elizabeth, because one of her most iconic off-duty looks, the barn jacket, is everywhere this Fall. That rugged little coat the royals wear in the countryside (Kate’s been spotted in hers lately, too) has stepped straight into the spotlight as the it jacket of the season.
I’ve been trying on a few myself recently (snapped this quick photo in the dressing room!), and I can see why it’s having a moment. If you’re drawn to that slightly rugged, preppy vibe that blends comfort with polish, the barn jacket is one to watch. It has history, it’s timeless, and it ties perfectly into the town-and-country trend that feels so right now. The best part? It’s not just for weekends in the country. There are so many chic, modern ways to wear it over 50.
So let’s talk about what makes it special, how to find the right one, and the different ways to style it this Fall.
What Exactly Is a Barn Jacket?
The barn jacket was originally designed for farmers and outdoor workers, and is also known as the chore jacket (not exactly the most glamorous name for it – Lol!).
It’s typically made of sturdy cotton canvas or waxed cotton and lined with flannel or corduroy for warmth. Usually it has a snap or button front, large patch pockets, and sometimes a corduroy collar, like the one I tried on. Brands like L.L. Bean, Barbour, Banana Republic, and J.Crew have all put their spin on this timeless piece.
Think of it as the cousin of the field jacket. Where a field jacket leans more military, the barn jacket feels more collegiate and equestrian.
How to Choose the Right Barn Jacket
When shopping for a barn jacket, pay attention to fabric, color, and length.
- Fabric: Traditional barn jackets are typically made from cotton, canvas, or waxed cotton. If you live somewhere rainy, a waxed finish will help keep you dry. For a softer, more casual look, go with washed cotton or twill.
- Color: The most traditional colors are olive green, tan, and navy. These shades are versatile and go with everything. If you want a more modern update, try a deep burgundy, a soft camel, or even black for a sleek twist.
- Length: Most barn jackets hit at the hip, which makes them easy to wear with jeans and trousers. Some newer styles come in slightly longer lengths.
How to Style a Barn Jacket
The great thing about a barn jacket is that it’s really versatile. Here are a few of my favorites and ways to wear them:
barn jacket | sweater | jeans | boots
With Jeans and a Sweater
This is the classic barn jacket look, but it seems a little “extra” to me. I really like that it’s more refined and less bulky than the one I tried (on and most others out there), and I’m crazy about the classy cognac piping bordering the navy. To enhance the elegant vibe, I’d pair this jacket with dark wash, straight-leg jeans, a luxurious cashmere crewneck, and loafers or fine ankle boots. Just my style!
Over a Dress
Surprise, surprise, you can wear a barn jacket over a dress. Choose a simple knit dress or a midi dress in a neutral tone, then throw on your jacket and finish with tall boots. The mix of rugged and feminine is what makes it work. This barn jacket is particularly nice with a dress because it’s got a glam twist to it. Leopard + a cropped, sleek barn jacket style lightens that heavy back country feel and gives this barn jacket more of a city chic vibe!
Ooh, I do like this one, and have it on order, so I’ll let you know. I can see myself in this!
jacket | jeans | plaid scarf | riding boots
With Equestrian Touches
This is a little more country again, but more clean and feminine than those heavy, green, and khaki barn jackets ( nothing wrong with them, but if you like pretty, you are barking up the wrong tree. They’re for gals with a natural rugged style). This creamy off white one lets you lean into the heritage of the barn jacket by styling it with riding boots, dark denim, and a plaid scarf. I like this look. It feels classic without being costume-like.
What kind of shoes look best with a barn jacket?
You have plenty of options. Loafers and Chelsea boots are classics, riding boots feel equestrian and timeless, and sneakers add a modern, casual touch. The jacket is versatile enough to work with all of them.
Why This Jacket Belongs in Your Closet
Fashion is full of fleeting trends, but the barn jacket has stood the test of time. It may have started in the fields, but today it is one of the most wearable and stylish outerwear choices you can make. Whether you style it with jeans and boots or layer it over a dress, the barn jacket is proof that classic pieces will always have a place in a modern wardrobe.
Since the secret to making any jacket look great comes down to how you layer it, you will love my post on Avoid These 7 Common Layering Mistakes This Fall. It’s full of easy tips to help you put outfits together with confidence.
Some Fab Barn Jackets to Shop Now
If you are ready to try one for yourself, here are some really good ones online now.
This jacket stays true to the barn coat’s roots with its sturdy waxed cotton finish, which means it gets better with age. It has that classic town-and-country feel that pairs well with jeans and boots, but you can also throw it over a sweater dress for a more polished look. If your style personality is very sporty and natural, this is the one for you!
An affordable way to try the trend, this lightweight canvas version is perfect for layering on crisp Fall days. Its relaxed fit makes it easy to pair with straight-leg denim or wide-leg pants, and I love the subtle pop of pink for Fall. This also has a very natural vibe, but the pink adds a touch of femininity.
This longer version of the barn coat gives you just a bit more coverage, which can be so nice when the weather turns chilly. The water-resistant fabric makes it practical for damp Fall days, while the clean lines keep it feeling modern. It is easy to dress up or down, whether you are running errands in jeans and sneakers or heading out to dinner with trousers and boots. Nice colors!
Plaid gives this barn jacket a fun twist and instantly makes it stand out from the classics. It is an easy way to bring pattern into your outerwear while still keeping things versatile. Wear it with denim and loafers for a polished preppy look. There are so many solid colored barn jackets around; this is a nice change, especially when you wear it with a solid color from head to toe underneath.
Leave it to Free People to give the barn coat a laid-back, bohemian edge. This one looks relaxed and cool over leggings, joggers, or even a maxi skirt. It is a fresh spin if you already own a traditional version and want to try something different.
Quilted detailing like this can soften a barn coat and make it feel extra cozy. This budget-friendly version is one you can throw on with a sweater and jeans for errands and still look pulled together. Nice color and fit!
This no-fuss jacket combines the heritage look of waxed cotton with a modern cut. It has a sleek finish that works well for city wear, but still gives you the durability you expect from a barn jacket. Style it with wide-leg trousers and boots for a polished everyday look.
Do I, Deb? – Is a Barn Jacket for Me?
The barn jacket shows that classics never fade. When I tried a few on in the dressing room, I realized just how many chic, modern options there are. So even if it once felt too rugged for you, it’s easy to wear the trend this fall without losing your own style. So check it out!
Shop More Barn Jackets for Women Over 50:
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Yes, clothes, beauty finds, home decor, what sheets you like the best…all the helpful. Whatever weekend day works best for you for fab finds.
Thank you very much for your input Joan about what kind of Fab Finds from Amazon you’d like me to post. They have so many great, undiscovered things. What does everyone else think? Cheers, Deb
Loving this because I have my grandfather’s barn jacket. We just called it his work coat, but it looks exactly like some of your pictures. He was a farmer, passed on in about 1977, and I now live in his house, and I wear his barn jacket as an everyday coat around the farm. Now, after reading your post, I’m feeling nostalgic about his coat! Thank you for this great post.
Hi Christina, Aww, that’s such a great stories. Clothes hold so many memories. I still have things I hold onto because I never want to forget! Glad you enjoyed the post! Cheers, Deb