Introducing your next cool weather staple: the best shirt jackets for men. When it’s too chilly for a t-shirt but too warm for a full-blown coat, you’ll find yourself reaching for a shirt jacket to build your outfit with. In fact, you’re probably going to wonder how you lived so long without one.
Made for layering, the shirt jacket (or men’s overshirt) is an outstanding mid-weight clothing item. Wear it with your favorite tees and sweaters or under your winter jacket to stay warm without sacrificing style.
Ready to elevate your look? These are the 15 best men’s shirt jackets to take your autumn and winter fashion to the next level.
Key Takeaways
Shirt jackets or ‘Shacket’ as they are affectionately being called, are some of the most versatile clothing items a man can own. Chilly morning? Throw on a shirt jacket. Cool summer evening? A tee and a shirt jacket. Need a mid-layer under your winter jacket? You guessed it… shacket.
The best men’s shirt jackets are rounded up below, though I’m particularly partial to the Wax London Whiting Overshirt, made from a soft cord and easy to pair with other closet staples. If you’re looking for something slightly warmer, the Kingston Jacket from Corridor will keep the heat locked in, or the Percival Blanket Overshirt, which is as cozy as a warm bed on a snowy morning.
Material: Recycled Cotton | Colors: 5 | Size Range: XS-2XL | Fit: Regular
Cord is easy for year-round wear. It’s perfect all day during fall, great for summer nights, and toasty under a puffer jacket for the winter season. This shacket for men is a top choice for transitional wear to get you through the shoulder months and an effortless layer for the rest of the year, too.
Versatility is the name of the game, and this shirt jacket shows out. You can wear it with pretty much anything, even a matching pair of cords for a monochrome look. Otherwise, it looks just as good with jeans as it does with joggers and can fit several layers underneath without crazy bulk.
If you’re looking for a slightly heavier construction, the Whiting Overshirt also comes in a cozy wool blend. I’d pick up both, but I’ll leave the choice to you.
Material: 70% Recycled Cotton, 30% Recycled Polyester | Colors: Multi | Size Range: XS-XL | Fit: Oversized
Live out your lumberjack dreams with this flannel shirt jacket from Corridor. Crafted from incredibly warm cotton-blend flannel, this overshirt is a top pick for autumn wear. It’s thick enough to wear without a jacket but won’t have you sweating, either. Now you won’t have to choose between your favorite flannel or a jacket. Plus, the checked pattern screams apple picking and pumpkin patches.
For some outfit inspiration, layer it with a hoodie and a pair of jeans. For extra chilly mornings, throw on a colorful beanie and button it up to keep the cold out. No matter how you wear this shirt jacket, don’t be surprised if you find yourself shopping for a second colorway… it’s just that good.
Material: 100% Wool | Colors: 1 | Size range: S-2XL | Fit: Regular
There’s just something about cold weather and plaid that go hand in hand. Maybe it’s the crisp autumn colors, or maybe it’s the illusion that plaid shirts keep you warmer than, say, a solid color. Believe whatever you want, but this Forét overshirt is proof of both.
Made from soft, brushed wool, this is among the best shirt jackets for men who are equally at home in the city and the woods. It offers a solid alternative to bigger jackets and hoodies and, instead, is a sophisticated layer for year-round wear. Whether you pair it with boots or sneakers, sweaters or tees, you’ll find it fits effortlessly into any man’s wardrobe, no matter the individual style.
Material: 100% Cotton | Colors: 8 | Size Range: XS-2XL | Fit: Relaxed
A high-quality, heavyweight cotton shirt is hard to come by these days. But Everlane pulls out all the stops with their twill overshirt that’s warm but not hot and designed for transitional weather. Whether you wear it over a tee or on its own, this shirt jacket is an essential wardrobe piece for put together autumn outfits.
It’s a whopping 8 oz of fabric (that’s pretty heavy) and features a relaxed fit. Some reviews state the shirt jacket shrinks after the first wash, so you may consider sizing up. That said, this piece is backed by Everlane’s 365-guarantee, so if it does shrink, they’ll replace it for you, no questions asked. Plus, it comes in 8 color options for seemingly unlimited choice in the hue department.
If you’re looking for something even warmer, Everlane also makes a plush sherpa-lined shirt jacket for an added dose of toast(y).
Material: 100% Polyester | Colors: 1 | Size Range: XS-XL | Fit: Regular
One of the biggest trends this cold weather season is quilted everything—from bags to jackets, and of course, to overshirts.
Aside from looking fly, the quilted construction aids in the shirt jacket’s warmth, making it a perfect piece to wear over a tee or layered with a thicker jacket. Finished with snaps down the front and the brand’s signature Closed on the pocket flap, this shirt jacket will be your new cold weather go-to, guaranteed.
Material: Italian Wool Blend | Colors: 7 | Size Range: XS-2XL | Fit: Wide
For those days when you want to leave the house wrapped in your blanket, this shacket comes to the rescue. Instead of looking like a burrito, it offers a stylish alternative to dragging your couch throw outside. As soft as a blanket with lots of added details, this is one of the best shirt jackets for men looking to spice up their winter wardrobe.
My favorite part about this shirt jacket is the internal pockets that even come with a hook to hang your keys from. Not to mention the four pockets on the front to stash all your precious goods.
It’s worth noting that this garment has a wider fit, which means you can squeeze a hoodie underneath for added warmth. Or wear it while you take work calls from home—a slightly more professional look than being wrapped up in your duvet.
Material: 100% Cotton | Colors: 1 | Size Range: S-XXL | Fit: Relaxed
This is one of the best men’s shirt jackets if you’re looking for a soft, wear-everywhere type of overshirt. With a neutral colorway crafted from 100% cotton, it goes with practically everything and adds a bit of dimension to a cold-weather outfit.
I’m a big fan of the safari vibe and suggest wearing this piece with slacks or denim. Whether you slip on a crewneck or hoodie underneath, the slightly oversized fit can accommodate bulkier layers. When the snow starts to fall, throw it on over your thermals and under your jacket, so your après-ski outfit is already locked and loaded.
Material: 100% Combed Cotton | Colors: 4 | Size Range: S-XXL | Fit: Tailored
Nicer than a hoodie but more casual than a blazer. Though it looks super sleek, it’s actually made from combed cotton, aka sweatshirt material, so you know it’s going to be ultra soft and comfy. When you need to dress up a bit, wear it with a bright turtleneck sweater or your favorite button-down. To keep things simple, it pairs well with tees and jeans.
The ribbed cuffs to lock in warmth and the flattering, tailored fit. Since it’s 100% cotton, you can throw this bad boy in the washer, making it a sophisticated upgrade from that tattered crewneck you’ve been sporting since college.
Material: 100% Cotton | Colors: 1 | Size Range: S-XL | Fit: Regular
Lighter than a jean jacket but heavy enough for transitional season wear, this piece is among the best shirt jackets for men craving a bit of denim. An ideal match for black jeans, a tee, and a hoodie (how to wear a denim jacket isn’t exactly rocket science), this jean top will effortlessly jazz up any autumn outfit or work perfectly as a spring jacket.
This men’s overshirt has a distinct workwear feel to it, making it an ageless coat that will stand the test of time. You’ll still be reaching for it in ten years. The deep front pockets make up the signature shirt jacket look and are great catchalls for your odds and ends, while the single breast pocket will safely hold your nearest and dearest.
Material: 100% Cotton | Colors: 1 | Size Range: IT 44-52 | Fit: Loose
I feel like camo and Valentino are almost a contradiction, but that’s what makes this shirt jacket so great. A high-end option for the military-inspired man, you can’t wear this camo jacket in a warzone but can get away with it anywhere else.
This overshirt has a slightly longer cut while maintaining a tailored feel, which gives it more of a jacket vibe than a shirt. Pull out your combat boots to wear with this shirt jacket, or keep it more low-key with a pair of leather sneakers, dark jeans, and a high-neck sweater (no need to overthink how to wear camouflage). Whatever you pair it with, the subtle Valentino branding across the top of the jacket will take your look to the next level.
Material: 100% Wool | Colors: 1 | Size Range: XS-XXL | Fit: Slightly Oversized
Military is one trend that never goes out of style. Menswear takes heaps of inspiration from tactical clothing, and this shirt jacket shows just how sleek practical garments can be. The distinct army style is apparent here, right down to the name (and color), which comes from the U.S. Navy’s Chief Petty Officers (CPO… get it?).
This shirt jacket has enough structure to maintain its shape without being rigid or uncomfortable. It sports a slightly oversized fit to squeeze a layer or two underneath. But since the shirt jacket is designed to be a layering piece, it really works best with a t-shirt. Finished with utility-inspired details like extra pockets and adjustable cuffs, this breezy men’s overshirt is your next closet staple.
Material: Canvas Shell, 100% Poly Micro Fleece Lining | Colors: 4 | Size Range: S-3XL Tall | Fit: Regular
I feel like Carhartt gets most of the attention for their canvas jackets, but this shirt jacket from Backpacker is a worthy alternative. Dare I say it might even be better? Outfitted with a durable canvas shell and a soft fleece lining, this bad boy will keep you warm, even in the windiest conditions.
Whether you’re looking for practical workwear or something trendy to hang out in, this shirt jacket does it all. Take it from the construction site to the pub, racking up compliments the entire way. One of the best aspects of this shirt jacket is the sleeves are lined with fleece instead of stopping at the torso like most lined jackets. Now your arms will be as toasty as your chest, making it a solid option even on the coldest days.
Material: 98% Cotton, 2% Spandex | Colors: 3 | Size range: M-2XL | Fit: Relaxed
Carhartt reigns supreme in the world of workwear turned fashion. They’ve perfected blue-collar style and distributed it to the masses at unbeatable prices. The quality never falters, and the pieces are designed to last for years, making anything from Carhartt a solid investment—this shirt jacket included.
The Rigby was designed for an effortless rugged look, with soft cotton material and warm fleece lining. What we love most about this Carhartt shirt jacket is the zippered breast pocket for stashing valuables and the snap closures to save time over buttons. There’s just a tiny bit of spandex to aid in mobility, making this an excellent choice for work or pleasure.
Material: 60% Cotton, 40% Polyester | Colors: 4 | Size range: S-3XL | Fit: Relaxed
Tried and true American style finds its home at L.L.Bean. This Northeastern powerhouse has been slinging the goods for more than 100 years… and yes, they make more than just duck boots and moccasins. This shirt jacket deserves all the attention, as it’s one of the most dependable pieces of clothing a man can own.
Inspired by classic workwear, this shirt jacket has a soft waffle knit that feels like your favorite pair of pajamas. It’s a great mid to lightweight layer for those ambiguous weather days and has a relaxed fit for some extra room (it’s worth sizing down if you don’t like a baggy style). And it’s designed to get even better with age, so go ahead and wear it every day—no judgment.
Material: 55% Cotton, 45% Polyester | Colors: 13 | Size Range: S-3XL | Fit: Relaxed
Nothing says changing seasons quite like breaking out the sherpa. This fleece-lined shirt jacket is an ideal fall companion, great for layering over a tee or long sleeve to lock in heat on those frosty days.
Wrangler does a relaxed fit well, and this shirt serves as proof. It’s big enough to fit a layer under without looking baggy. Considering the amount of plush sherpa lining the shirt jacket, it doesn’t get bulky either, which makes it a prime choice for wearing out on colder nights or using as a mid-layer under a heavier coat. With 13 colors to choose from, you may as well grab a few since you’re probably going to live in this thing once the temperatures drop.
What to Look for in the Best Shirt Jackets
Material
The most important aspect to consider when it comes to the best shirt jackets is the material.
Most shirt jackets are made from cotton or a cotton blend which means a soft, flexible garment. The weight of the cotton generally determines how warm it will be, and you’ll find shirt jackets that are made from super lightweight cotton to heavier spun twill.
Wool is another common material for heavier shirt jackets, mainly designed for winter wear. Wool is great for keeping warm and can block wind pretty efficiently. However, choose your wool wisely, or you’ll end up scratching at your collar all day.
Other materials you may come across are canvas (great for rugged wear and keeping the wind out), flannel (for that lumberjack look), denim, and more.
In addition to what the shirt jacket is made of, you should also check the material of the lining as this majorly contributes to the garment’s warmth. In general, unlined shirt jackets are going to be the most lightweight, while overshirts lined with fleece, flannel, sherpa, or other heavyweight materials will make it super warm.
Size
Size is worth keeping in mind when it comes to shirt jackets, as some run large, some run small, and some are true to size. Typically, the best shirt jackets are slightly oversized, which allows you to fit a layer underneath. However, it’s worth consulting the individual sizing chart to ensure you don’t need to size up or down for a comfortable fit.
Fit
Speaking of fit…
Most shirt jackets sport a “regular fit,” with a little bit of extra room to keep the shirt-like form intact rather than turning it into a full-blown jacket. Often, they’re slightly larger than your average button-up shirt to accommodate a layer or two underneath. That said, a shirt jacket shouldn’t fit too large because it’ll be hard to layer on top of it.
However, some shirt jackets go for a baggier look with an oversized fit. This means it’ll be a little longer at the waist and have some extra room in the arms and torso. This is a good choice if you want to wear your men’s overshirt with a hoodie underneath.
If you want to wear a shirt jacket on its own or with only a t-shirt, look for options with a slim or tailored fit, which will be tighter around the shoulders and through the arms. You won’t be able to fit a sweatshirt underneath, but the end result is a more polished look than you’ll get with a baggier shirt jacket.
Color
Color is more important than you would think when it comes to a shirt jacket because it has to match whatever you layer it with, in addition to your pants, shoes, and accessories.
To play it safe, choose a shirt jacket in a neutral color like cream, brown, black, or army green. If you want to use it as more of a statement piece, nothing says “I’m stylish” like a bright orange overshirt.
If all else fails, you can never go wrong with a check or plaid pattern to add a bit of dimension to your outfit.
Final Verdict
The best shirt jackets come in many different materials, fits, and colors. Our go-to for all things layering is the Whiting Overshirt from Wax London. The cord is more unique than a typical cotton shirt jacket, and the wool option is a nice alternative if you’re looking for something a bit heavier.
FAQ
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The best thing about shirt jackets is their versatility. Wear them with t-shirts, long sleeves, button-downs, and even sweaters underneath. For some extra warmth, layer a shirt jacket with your favorite hoodie or crew neck, and throw a puffer jacket on top.
On the bottom, jeans or slacks look best, but you can get away with wearing most shirt jackets with joggers, too. In terms of shoes, pair your shirt jacket with your go-to boots, sneakers, or other fall footwear—you can’t go wrong here.
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A shaket is a combination of the words shirt and jacket, making it another way to call a shirt jacket or overshirt.
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Shirt jackets and overshirts are used interchangeably, as they’re pretty much the same garment. Though you may find some shirt jackets are made from a heavier, more jacket-y material than overshirts, which are typically crafted from cotton.
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