Jennifer Garner Wore the Outerwear Trend That’s Entirely Underrated

I have a love-hate relationship with jackets, which also means I have a love-hate relationship with fall, as that’s the time of year we start wearing outerwear again. I like the top layer because I can literally step out in pajamas, throw on a chic topper, and no one knows what’s underneath it (expect me — and now you). In that case, I love a jacket. But when I commute to work and start breaking out in sweat while waiting on the subway, I majorly regret wearing the jacket. Ugh. 

Finding the right jacket is pretty much an art form here in New York City, especially this time of year. I can’t wear something too heavy duty, like a Canada Goose, because, well, I’ll simply sweat the second I leave my apartment, but you also need to wear more than just a light cardigan. So, what’s one to do? I think taking notes from Jennifer Garner’s latest outerwear moment is the right move. 

Garner was photographed out and about in Los Angeles wearing the most underrated coat style that immediately deserves your attention: the shacket. But before we get to the topper, let’s break down the rest of her look, which was, as per usual, sporty-cool, a combo she tends to wear when on her hot girl walks around L.A. Garner opted for forest-green leggings, probably from Spanx, Brooks sneakers, a baseball cap, and sunglasses. But the real standout piece was that black shacket that looked equal parts cozy yet stylish. And now, I want one, too.

Avec Les Filles Relaxed Faux Wool Utility Shacket

Thread and Supply High-Pile Fleece Shacket

If you’re not familiar with the shacket, it’s okay — I wasn’t either until last year. Break up the word and you get “shirt-jacket,” and that’s exactly what it is. It has the inherent DNA of a classic button-up shirt, with the button-up design, front pocket, and traditionally shirt-like design, but are typically made of thicker material, like a wool-blend or even a leather, that makes them warmer than your usual shirt. It’s a coat and shirt in one, and it’s the most underrated outerwear of the season. Mark my words!

The medium-weight design makes it the ideal topper for this time of year. Plus, it’s so easy to layer over anything you probably already have in your closet, like a turtleneck bodysuit or even a sweater; just pick the base piece accordingly. If it’s warmer, go with the former, and if it’s colder outside, a cozy knit underneath a shacket will serve you well.

Not to mention, a shacket looks really darn cool, too. It has an I-stole-this-from-my boyfriend's-closet vibe, giving it a subtle menswear feel that adds a cool contrast to more feminine-leaning looks, like if you were to wear it with a slip dress or a pleated skirt. 

A shacket is warm without being too warm, aka, it’s the essential topper you need now. Shop more shirt-jackets inspired by Garner’s below.

Sandery Long-Sleeve Shacket

BP. Plaid Oversized Shirt Jacket

Alo Yoga Sherpa Edge Jacket

J.Crew Wool-Blend Shirt Jacket

Good American Longline Shacket

Lucky Brand Oversized Plaid Shirt Jacket