Outerwear

Women's outerwear: jackets, blazers and coats

Outerwear is the layer that gets seen most, on the way in, in the meeting and on the way home. Forcast outerwear covers suit jackets, single and double breasted blazers, collarless and cropped jackets, bomber jackets, peacoats, trench coats and wool blend coats, in sizes 4 to 18, for women who need a jacket that works over a suit on Monday and over jeans on Saturday.

Choosing your outer layer

For a corporate office, a tailored blazer such as the Safira Suit Jacket or the Nikki Double Breasted Blazer is the anchor, and it can be bought with matching pants or a skirt. A collarless or cropped jacket is softer and sits well over dresses. Belted and fitted-waist blazers give shape over a straight column. When the temperature drops, move to a peacoat, a trench or a longer coat that fits over the blazer. Browse jackets and blazers for the tailored end and coats for the warm end.

What to wear it with

A blazer over a fine knit and work pants is the simplest working outfit there is. A cropped jacket balances a wide leg pant or a full skirt. A bomber over a slip dress, or over a T-shirt and jeans, is the weekend version. A long coat needs a slimmer line underneath so the proportions hold. Add a scarf and a structured bag and you are out the door.

Fabric and fit

Blazers and suit jackets are cut in suiting blends with a little stretch so the shoulders and sleeves move with you. Tweed jackets add texture; wool blend coats bring the warmth. Double breasted styles are the most formal; single breasted and collarless are easier to wear open. If you plan to layer a knit underneath a coat, allow for it when choosing a size.

How to shop outerwear

Check shoulder, bust and sleeve measurements on the size guide. Standard delivery is free on Australian orders over $100, and you have 30 days to return or exchange online or in any Forcast store across New South Wales, Victoria and the ACT. To build a full look, see suit sets and vests.