I'm Not Saying Denim Jackets Are Out, But This Expensive-Looking Alternative is Quietly Dominating This Spring

After a couple of weeks of “will-it-won’t-it” weather, it’s fair to say that a sunny spring is just around the corner, and we’ve already packed away our winter coats in anticipation. We’ve been relying on layers of knitwear to get us through the cold snap since last September, but now ballet flats and sandals are taking over from our knee-high boots, tights are making way for (gasp!) bare legs, but until it’s warm enough to forgo cosy layers all together, we’re steering our focus to seasonal outerwear.

With so many jackets on the market at the moment (and you can find our round up of the very best here), there’s one style quietly climbing the ranks and bringing an undeniably chic finish to every outfit—the car coat.

Quilted jackets may have been trending in autumn, and denim jackets invariably come back around each year, but this season, fashion people are investing in minimalist, pared-back, lightweight coats that function as a trench/shacket hybrid to fill the gap in our transitional wardrobes. Without all of the zips, toggles, bells and whistles, the car coat is a fresh new silhouette (and undoubtedly an easy-to-style staple) so if you’re looking for something to throw on over a cardigan or a crew neck, a pretty dress or t-shirt and jeans, this is a coat that can do it all.

Whether you opt for a classic midi length or the 2025 update, cropped to the hip, the naturally boxy cut jacket is ideal for trans-seasonal layering, working hard to elevate chunky knits or adding polish to laidback looks. Oh, and the best part of this elegant trend? You don’t have to spend four figures to look like you have, as the high street has already cottoned onto the look. From the Sézane jacket that is causing a stir on social media to the Massimo Dutti coat our shopping editor spotted in store, car coats are the latest outerwear trend to get our full attention.

To shop the spring jacket trend that the fashion crowd is happily backing, keep scrolling to see our edit of the best car coats to buy now and love forever.