Hunting Jackets/Coats - The Ultimate Guide: How to Style & Where to Buy

Hunting jackets are the ultimate blend of heritage style and practical functionality, offering a sophisticated nod to countryside traditions whilst keeping you warm and dry. Originally designed for outdoor pursuits, these structured coats have evolved into wardrobe staples that effortlessly bridge the gap between country and city dressing. As someone who's styled countless clients through British weather, I can tell you that a well-chosen hunting jacket is one of the smartest investments you'll make this season.

What Makes a Hunting Jacket Special?

Authentic hunting jackets aren't just about aesthetics—they're built for purpose. The best examples feature water-resistant or waterproof fabrics, reinforced shoulders and elbows, and practical details like large pockets, storm flaps, and adjustable cuffs. Traditional materials include waxed cotton, wool blends, and modern technical fabrics that offer breathability whilst maintaining weather protection.

The silhouette is typically structured yet comfortable, with enough room for layering underneath. Classic hunting jackets often feature a slightly longer length, hitting at the hip or just below, which creates a flattering proportion whilst providing practical coverage.

Styling Your Hunting Jacket

The Country Casual Look

This is where hunting jackets truly shine. Pair your jacket with well-fitted dark wash jeans or cord trousers, sturdy leather boots (think Chelsea or walking boots), and a chunky knit jumper. Add a silk scarf for a touch of refinement. This combination works beautifully for weekend countryside trips, farmers' markets, or casual pub lunches.

City Sophistication

Don't underestimate the urban appeal of a hunting jacket. Layer it over a fine-knit turtleneck with tailored trousers and leather ankle boots. The key is choosing a jacket in a refined colourway—navy, deep green, or rich brown work particularly well in urban settings. This look is perfect for commuting or casual Friday office wear.

Evening Edge

For an unexpectedly chic evening look, try pairing a sleek hunting jacket with dark skinny jeans, a silk blouse, and heeled boots. The contrast between the structured outerwear and feminine elements creates an intriguing style tension that's thoroughly modern.

Key Features to Look For

• Water resistance: Essential for British weather—look for waxed cotton or technical fabrics
• Practical pockets: Deep, well-positioned pockets for phones, keys, and essentials
• Adjustable elements: Cuffs, hem, or waist adjustments for a personalised fit
• Quality hardware: Sturdy zips and fastenings that won't let you down
• Breathable lining: Prevents overheating during active wear

Brand Recommendations by Budget

High Street Heroes (£80-£200)

Joules offers excellent entry-level hunting jackets with proper country credentials. Their waxed cotton jackets are particularly good value, featuring authentic detailing at accessible prices.

Seasalt Cornwall creates beautifully designed jackets with coastal-countryside crossover appeal. Their use of organic cotton and sustainable practices adds modern appeal to traditional silhouettes.

Fat Face delivers reliable, well-constructed jackets perfect for weekend adventures. Look for their heritage range which offers more sophisticated styling.

Premium Picks (£200-£500)

Dubarry is the gold standard for country outerwear. Their hunting jackets combine Irish craftsmanship with technical performance, featuring gore-tex linings and impeccable attention to detail.

Aigle brings French sophistication to outdoor wear. Their jackets offer excellent weather protection with a more refined European cut that works beautifully in city settings.

Schöffel provides exceptional quality with Austrian precision engineering. Their women's hunting jackets feature flattering cuts and superior technical fabrics.

Musto leverages their sailing expertise to create hunting jackets with outstanding weather protection and functional design elements.

Designer Luxury (£500+)

Burberry offers the ultimate in heritage hunting wear. Their trench coat-inspired hunting jackets feature signature check linings and impeccable tailoring that justifies the investment.

Belstaff brings rock-star edge to country classics. Their waxed cotton jackets have an unmistakable attitude whilst maintaining authentic functionality.

Holland & Holland represents the pinnacle of British sporting tradition. Their bespoke hunting jackets are works of art, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern performance fabrics.

Le Chameau creates exquisite French hunting wear with feminine silhouettes that never compromise on performance. Their attention to detail is extraordinary.

Seasonal Styling Tips

Spring calls for lighter-weight hunting jackets in navy or olive, paired with white jeans and canvas trainers. Summer evenings benefit from unstructured linen-cotton blends that provide light protection without overheating.

Autumn is prime hunting jacket season—embrace rich burgundy, forest green, or classic tan colours. Layer over chunky knits and pair with leather boots for the perfect transitional weather ensemble.

Winter requires more substantial protection. Look for insulated options or layer your hunting jacket over wool jumpers. Deep colours like navy, charcoal, or rich brown work best during darker months.

Care and Maintenance

Proper care extends your hunting jacket's life significantly. Waxed cotton requires periodic re-waxing—typically every 12-18 months depending on use. Always follow manufacturer guidelines for washing, as many hunting jackets require specialist cleaning to maintain their weather-resistant properties.

Store your jacket on proper hangers to maintain its shape, and allow it to air dry thoroughly after exposure to rain. Regular maintenance keeps your investment looking and performing at its best.

Never Guess Your Size Again with tellar.co.uk

Finding the perfect hunting jacket fit has never been easier. tellar.co.uk is the UK's leading sizing tool, matching your body exactly to over 1500 brands instantly—you'll never need to look at a size guide again!

Here's how it works:

• Measure once using your bust, waist, hip measurements, or existing brand size
• Use the tellar.co.uk
• tellar.co.uk
• tellar.co.uk.