This fall, new fashion styles in the malls are noticeably more relaxed in fit and tailored with comfort in mind. According to an article by Alexis Bennett from Vogue, one such item that is quickly popping up in several stores is known colloquially as “the shacket,” or a relaxed version of the shirt jacket.
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, the shacket is a cross between a shirt and a jacket, all packaged into one. The shacket is reminiscent of a military style shirt jacket, and can be worn by both men and women. It is a versatile piece that will go with many outfits and can be worn any time of the year. Slightly oversized, the shacket is a light and transitional jacket that can be worn over a t-shirt and jeans or paired with a turtleneck and black pants.
As with any fashion trend, the curiosity of what makes the shacket so special and popular to wear attracts potential buyers to at least try them on. The shacket is garnering more popularity as the fall season approaches.
Observers can see a variation of the shacket being displayed prominently and proudly on store websites, usually paired with jeans and a shirt. Upon first impression, the shacket may appear ordinary, even unflattering and boxy in style. However, as Bennett points out, the shacket is tailored for comfort, combining the relaxed style of a button-down shirt with the warmth of a jacket.
Ever since the pandemic began, there has been a noticeable shift from form fitting business wear to more relaxed styles in stores that are purposely made for lounging around home instead of the office or school. As people are still opting for more comfortable styles, the shacket is a good way for people to dress up more casual outfits with a chicer style.
There are many variations of the shacket, most of which are made with a wool blend. However, there are also shackets that are made without wool. The shacket comes in a variety of colours and materials such as corduroy, wool, polyester, rayon, and acrylic blends. The classic shackets also come in a variety of colours such as white, tan, black, lavender, turquoise, and oatmeal.
For those who prefer a more structured and figure-flattering version of the shacket, the store Ricki’s has a lavender version made from a polyester, rayon, and acrylic blend that comes with a matching belt. The added belt cinches the jacket in the middle and adds more of a tailored silhouette for the wearer.
On the hanger, the shacket looks deceivingly boxy, unflattering, and oversized. But on a person, the shacket is a relaxed and modern take on an old classic.
Image: Vogue
Rachel is working towards a BA with a concentration in English and Theatre. She has been employed at The Cascade since Fall 2021 as a Staff Writer and a Jr. News Editor. Currently, she is the sectional News Editor and enjoys meeting and interviewing people as well as taking long walks in nature. Rachel also likes to stay up to date on the latest trends and informs students through her fashion column entitled Campus Fashion.
