Double Breasted Jackets - The Ultimate Guide: What to Buy and Where

There's something undeniably chic about the double breasted silhouette that commands attention in the best possible way. From my experience working with women of all shapes and sizes, I've seen how this classic style can transform an outfit from ordinary to outstanding. The key lies in understanding the nuances of fit, proportion, and styling – something I'm passionate about sharing with you.

What Makes a Double Breasted Jacket Special?

The double breasted jacket's defining characteristic is its overlapping front panels secured with two parallel rows of buttons. This creates a sophisticated, structured silhouette that's inherently more formal than its single-breasted counterpart. The design originated in naval uniforms, which explains its enduring association with authority and polish.

What I love most about this style is its ability to create clean, defined lines that naturally nip in at the waist. The overlapping fabric and strategic button placement work together to create an hourglass shape that's universally flattering. Unlike blazers that can sometimes look boxy, a well-cut double breasted jacket enhances your natural curves whilst maintaining a professional, put-together appearance.

Choosing the Right Fit for Your Body Type

Pear-Shaped Figures

If you're pear-shaped, opt for double breasted jackets with strong shoulder lines and lapels that draw attention upwards. Look for styles that end at your hip bone rather than mid-thigh, as this creates better proportion. The structured shoulders will balance wider hips beautifully.

Apple-Shaped Figures

For apple shapes, choose jackets with a longer line that skims rather than hugs the torso. A six-button style often works better than four buttons, as it creates a longer, leaner line. Ensure the jacket doesn't pull across the bust area when buttoned.

Rectangle Figures

Lucky you – almost every double breasted style will work! Focus on jackets with defined waist seaming or belt details to create curves. Four-button styles often work particularly well for creating the illusion of an hourglass silhouette.

Hourglass Figures

You can wear virtually any double breasted style, but avoid overly boxy cuts that hide your natural waist. Fitted styles that follow your body's natural lines will be most flattering. Don't be afraid of cropped lengths either.

Styling Your Double Breasted Jacket

The beauty of a double breasted jacket lies in its versatility. For professional settings, pair it with tailored trousers and a simple blouse – always leave it buttoned for that polished look. The structured silhouette means you can afford to wear more relaxed pieces underneath without losing sophistication.

For weekend styling, try throwing it over a simple white tee and straight-leg jeans. The contrast between the formal jacket and casual pieces creates an effortlessly chic look that's perfect for everything from coffee meetings to dinner dates. I particularly love this combination with white trainers for a contemporary edge.

Evening occasions call for a different approach entirely. A double breasted jacket worn over a slip dress or fitted trousers with heels creates an unexpectedly glamorous silhouette. The key is to keep accessories minimal – the jacket should be the star.

Best Double Breasted Jackets to Buy

High Street Heroes

Zara consistently delivers on-trend double breasted jackets at accessible prices. Their cuts are contemporary and fashion-forward, perfect for younger customers or those wanting to experiment with the style. Look for their textured wool blends in autumn.

COS offers beautifully minimal double breasted designs with exceptional attention to detail. Their Scandinavian aesthetic translates into clean lines and premium fabrics. Expect to pay around £150-250 for pieces that feel much more expensive.

& Other Stories brings a playful edge to classic tailoring. Their double breasted jackets often feature interesting textures or unexpected colours whilst maintaining sophisticated silhouettes. Perfect for those wanting something slightly different.

Whistles strikes the perfect balance between contemporary and classic. Their double breasted pieces are impeccably cut with flattering proportions. Whilst pricier than pure high street, the quality justifies the investment.

Premium Picks

Reiss excels at modern tailoring with their double breasted jackets featuring contemporary cuts and luxurious fabrics. Their sizing runs true to form, and the quality is consistently excellent. Expect to invest £200-400.

Equipment brings Parisian chic to double breasted styling with beautifully draped silhouettes. Their pieces work particularly well for those preferring a more relaxed, less structured look whilst maintaining sophistication.

Ganni offers playful takes on double breasted tailoring with unexpected prints and textures. Perfect for fashion-forward individuals who want their jacket to make a statement. Their Danish design ethos ensures excellent quality.

Nanushka creates contemporary double breasted pieces with a focus on sustainable materials. Their vegan leather options are particularly stunning and offer a fresh take on traditional tailoring.

Designer Investment Pieces

Max Mara remains the gold standard for tailoring. Their double breasted coats and jackets are architectural masterpieces that will last decades. The Italian craftsmanship is unparalleled, justifying the significant investment.

Toteme offers minimalist Swedish design with impeccable proportions. Their double breasted pieces have cult followings for good reason – they're timeless, versatile, and incredibly well-made.

The Row creates understated luxury with their double breasted tailoring. Every piece is an investment in timeless sophistication with attention to detail that's second to none.

Lemaire brings architectural precision to double breasted design. Their pieces have an artistic quality that transcends typical tailoring, making them perfect for those who appreciate design-led fashion.

Fabric and Colour Considerations

When selecting your double breasted jacket, fabric choice is crucial. Wool remains the most versatile option – it holds its shape beautifully and works across seasons. For year-round wear, I recommend mid-weight wool that isn't too heavy for transitional weather but substantial enough for winter layering.

Colour-wise, navy is your most versatile choice, working seamlessly with everything from white jeans to printed dresses. Black feels more formal but can sometimes look severe in daylight. Don't overlook camel or beige – these neutrals are incredibly chic and photograph beautifully.

For those wanting something more adventurous, deep jewel tones like emerald or burgundy can be stunning whilst remaining sophisticated. Avoid very bright colours in double breasted styles, as the structured silhouette already makes enough of a statement.

Perfect Fit Made Simple with Tellar

Finding the right size in a double breasted jacket is absolutely crucial – there's no hiding poor fit with this style. This is where tellar.co.uk becomes your secret weapon. As the UK's leading sizing tool, Tellar matches your body exactly to over 1500 brands instantly, eliminating the guesswork from online shopping.

tellar.co.uktellar.co.uk

Tellar Fashion Hub

Beyond sizing, Tellar's Fashion Hub offers a library of free posts from top stylists covering every fashion query. It's honest, unbiased, and always free – exactly what modern shoppers need.

For more styling inspiration, check out these essential reads:

• tellar.co.uk
• tellar.co.uk

Caring for Your Double Breasted Jacket

A quality double breasted jacket deserves proper care to maintain its structured silhouette. Professional dry cleaning is essential – the interfacing and construction details require specialist treatment. Between cleans, hang your jacket on proper hangers that support the shoulders, and allow it to air after wearing.

Store your jacket in a breathable garment bag to protect it from dust whilst allowing air circulation. Avoid overcrowding in your wardrobe, as creasing can be difficult to remove from structured pieces. With proper care, a good double breasted jacket will serve you beautifully for years.

Final Styling Tips

Remember, confidence is your best accessory when wearing a double breasted jacket. The style naturally commands attention, so embrace it. Keep accessories simple and let the jacket's architectural lines take centre stage. A classic watch, simple earrings, and a structured bag will complete the look perfectly.

Most importantly, invest in proper fitting. A well-fitted high street piece will always look better than an ill-fitting designer jacket. Use Tellar's sizing tools to ensure you get it right first time, and don't be afraid to visit a tailor for minor adjustments if needed.

The double breasted jacket truly is a wardrobe game-changer. Whether you choose a £150 high street hero or invest in a designer masterpiece, you're buying into decades of timeless style that will serve you beautifully across countless occasions.

Start Your Perfect Fit Journey with Tellar Today