Living in New York has turned me into a bit of a jacket strategist. I never realized how much thought goes into outerwear until I moved here — a place where it can feel like three different seasons in a single day. Over time, I’ve built a small rotation that fits my routine: commuting on foot, running errands, grabbing coffee, and sometimes heading out for late-night walks when the city’s energy feels just right.
In this post, I’ll walk you through how I pick the right jacket for each season — what actually works, what’s overrated, and the few pieces I think every city dweller should have.
Winter: The Parka That Earned Its Space in My Closet
New York winters are brutal, and no one warns you how cold the wind feels when it whips down the avenues. I learned quickly that a stylish coat means nothing if it doesn’t block that wind. After trying wool topcoats, puffers, and even a military surplus jacket, I landed on a down parka with a faux-fur hood and deep hand-warmer pockets.
I use it daily from December through February. The outer shell is water-resistant, the insulation thick but breathable, and the fit long enough to cover my thighs. It’s not glamorous, but it does the job. And honestly, when it’s 20°F and sleeting, practicality beats aesthetics every time.
Tip: Try the “subway test” — if you can ride a few stops without overheating, you’ve found the right insulation level.
Spring: Light Jackets That Handle Rain and Mood Swings
Spring in the city is unpredictable. One minute you’re sweating under the sun, and the next, you’re caught in a sudden drizzle. I usually rotate between a lightweight bomber and a water-resistant trench.
The bomber jacket is my go-to for casual days. It works over a T-shirt or hoodie, and it’s easy to stash in a tote if the temperature rises. The trench coat, on the other hand, feels more put-together — perfect for days when I have meetings or dinner plans. I prefer one with a detachable liner so I can adjust it through the season.
My rule of thumb: choose something that layers easily. Spring is all about flexibility, not fashion statements.
Summer: The “Non-Jacket” Season (But Still Keep One Handy)
Technically, summer doesn’t need jackets — but the city’s overzealous air conditioning says otherwise. Every restaurant, subway, or office seems to compete for “coldest interior temperature.”
That’s why I keep a light denim jacket or a thin overshirt rolled up in my backpack. It’s breathable but keeps me from freezing indoors. Denim also pairs with everything, from linen shirts to simple tees, so it’s the rare piece that feels both practical and stylish.
And on cooler summer nights — say, a walk along the East River — that same denim jacket feels just right.
Fall: My Favorite Jacket Season
Fall is when New York feels cinematic — yellow leaves, low sunlight, coffee in hand, and a jacket that makes you feel like you belong in a movie. It’s the only time I really care about style.
I switch between a leather jacket and a wool overshirt, depending on the day. The leather one adds structure and edge; it’s the jacket I wear when I want to feel sharp. The wool overshirt, on the other hand, is my version of cozy — great for layering over flannels or turtlenecks.
Key insight: A good fall jacket should feel like armor against both the chill and the chaos of the city.
What I Look for in Any Jacket
After years of trial and error, these are the features I’ve learned to prioritize:
- Fit: Slightly tailored but roomy enough for layering.
- Pockets: Deep ones — the kind that actually hold a phone, wallet, and gloves.
- Durability: Look for double stitching, YKK zippers, and weather-treated fabrics.
- Ease of care: Machine-washable if possible. Dry cleaning in the city adds up fast.
A jacket shouldn’t just look good on the rack; it should work in your actual routine — subway rides, grocery runs, sudden rain, and all.
Value and Longevity
I’ve stopped buying trendy outerwear that doesn’t last. Now, I’d rather invest in one high-quality jacket per season that I can wear for years. A durable jacket, especially something like a Barbour waxed coat or a classic Levi’s trucker, only gets better with age.
When you live in a city that throws every kind of weather at you, you realize a jacket isn’t just clothing — it’s daily armor.
My Verdict
Choosing jackets used to be about how they looked; now it’s about how they live with me. Each season has its rhythm, and the right outerwear makes it easier to move with it — not fight against it.
If you’re building your own rotation, start small: one jacket per season that truly works for your climate and your lifestyle. Forget trends; find pieces that feel like you.
Written and tested by Chi Tran for 123Review.net.
Affiliate links may earn a commission, but opinions are my own.
Chi Tran is a tech and lifestyle reviewer based in New York City, exploring how simple tools make urban life smarter.
