The barn jacket has become a fashion staple in recent years, evolving from its functional roots as a rugged outerwear garment for farmers and workers into a stylish jacket for both men and women.
Characterized by its durable cotton or wool fabric, corduroy collar, button or zip front closure, and typically shorter length hitting at the hips, the barn jacket exudes both comfort and timeless style.
While originally created to provide warmth and protection from the elements for those working outdoors, today the barn jacket has found its place in casual fashion as a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down.
It brings a bit of the countryside into the city and adds a vintage touch to any outfit.
The jacket’s classic design allows it to pair well with jeans, khakis, dresses, and more.
It’s the perfect transitional jacket between seasons and gives off an effortlessly cool vibe.
Barn Jacket with Maxi Dress
Nothing evokes effortless femininity like pairing a barn jacket with a floral maxi dress.
Choose a maxi made of airy material like chiffon or crepe that naturally flows with movement.
Neutral tan or brown barn jackets complement vibrant floral prints and bright dress colors nicely for a pop of contrast.
Layer the jacket over your shoulders for a casual look or slip your arms through the sleeves to stay cozy on cooler days.
Finish off the outfit with minimal accessories like a pendant necklace, sunglasses, and ankle booties.
This outfit combo exudes ’70s flower child vibes in a chic modern way.
It’s perfect for the transition from summer to fall when days are still warm but nights get a chill.
I recently wore my light tan waxed cotton barn jacket over a navy blue floral maxi dress to an outdoor music festival.
The contrast of the rugged jacket with the feminine dress and pink flower print was stylish and eye-catching as I danced and swayed to the music.
I received so many compliments on the outfit combination!
The barn jacket kept my shoulders warm once the sun set without taking away from the flowy dress silhouette.
It was both comfortable and fashionable.
Cropped Barn Jacket with High-Waisted Trousers
For the girl on the go who still wants to look polished, pair a cropped barn jacket with high-waisted trousers or jeans.
Look for a jacket with a boxier cut that hits right at your waist.
Choose high-waisted, wide leg pants to balance proportions.
Add a simple cami or fitted tank tucked into the trousers, and slide on low block heels or ankle boots.
This creates a chic monochromatic outfit in neutral tones like black, gray, navy or tan.
Finish with a crossbody bag for hands-free wear.
The silhouette is modern and sleek for the office or out on the town.
Swap out the top for something dressier like a silky cami or add statement earrings and red lipstick for evening.
I recently purchased a cropped black barn jacket with silver button details that hits right at my natural waistline.
I paired it with high-waisted cream colored wide leg trousers and a black sleeveless mock neck top for a business casual office look.
Tucked into the pants and layered under the structured jacket, the fitted top showed off my shape in a professional way.
I added ankle strap heels and small silver hoop earrings for some subtle shine.
This outfit gave me the confidence boost I needed for a big presentation at work!
The timeless tailored pieces worked together seamlessly while still keeping me comfortable.
Oversized Barn Jacket as a Dress
For an edgy, fashion-forward ensemble, style an oversized barn jacket as a dress.
Look for a jacket that hits mid-thigh or lower for proper coverage.
Pair with black opaque tights and lace-up or chunky ankle boots.
Cinch the jacket at the waist with a skinny belt for a more feminine shape.
Show off your decolletage with a plunging v-neck top underneath or layer graphic tee or turtleneck underneath for added interest.
Complete the grunge look with lots of layered necklaces, a beanie and bold makeup like a dark lip and cat eye liner
This outfit transforms the humble barn jacket into a chic dress perfect for a night out.
When going to see my favorite indie band last week, I wore my boyfriend’s oversized, broken-in light denim barn jacket as a dress with black leggings and my chunky black Doc Marten boots.
I layered a low-cut black tank top under the jacket and added lots of silver pendant necklaces.
A black beanie and dark reddish-purple lipstick finished the rocker chic look.
The outfit was edgy, fun and kept me warm during the outdoor concert on a cool fall night.
I got so many compliments from fellow fans on the creative styling of the jacket into a dress!
It was the perfect piece to head bang and mosh in with comfort.
Sophisticated Blouse and Trousers with Barn Jacket
For an elegant day-to-night ensemble, pair a blouse and trousers with your trusty barn jacket.
Look for a button down shirt with delicate details like a bowtie neck, lace trim or ruffled sleeves.
Tuck the blouse into tailored trousers high at your natural waistline.
Add the barn jacket on top for a pulled-together, layered look.
Complete the outfit with kitten heels or booties.
For evening, swap the trousers for a midi skirt and add statement earrings for an elevated yet effortless look.
Keep makeup and hair simple and let the chic outfit speak for itself.
I recently went out to Sunday brunch with friends at a trendy farm-to-table restaurant in my neighborhood.
I wore a cream lace detailed blouse tucked into wide leg navy trousers with a tan barn jacket on top.
For shoes, I chose brown ankle booties.
The look felt sophisticated yet still comfortable for the casual weekend brunch setting.
My outfit seamlessly transitioned to errand running after brunch, exemplifying the versatility of the simple yet stylish combination.
I received lots of praise from my friends, who loved how I dressed up the laidback barn jacket by pairing it with elegant blouse and trousers.
It’s now one of my favorite go-to looks!
Bold Printed Dress with Barn Jacket
Make your barn jacket the star topper for a colorful printed dress.
Look for a dress in vibrant large floral or abstract prints.
Pair it with a solid colored barn jacket in tan, brown, olive green, camel or black.
For length, look for a dress that hits just above the knee to allow the print to stand out.
Add opaque tights and short boots or ankle booties.
Finish the look with a crossbody bag and oversized sunglasses for artistic edge.
This outfit is both lively and fashionable, perfect for walking city streets or going to an art gallery opening.
The barn jacket grounds the bold dress in classic ease.
During a recent weekend city break, I wore a black barn jacket over a navy blue and fuchsia floral printed knit dress and black sheer tights as I explored museums and stopped in cafes.
The vibrant colors and large rose print really popped against the solid black jacket.
I felt whimsical yet refined at the same time.
When the wind picked up, I was able to button up the jacket for extra warmth but could still let the lovely dress peek through.
I received many compliments from stylish strangers on the street who loved the contrast of the feminine floral dress paired with the rugged barn jacket.
It was eye-catching but also practical during a long walking day about town.
Shirred Midi Dress with Oversized Barn Jacket
Stay ahead of the style curve by pairing a voluminous shirred midi dress with an oversized barn jacket.
Look for a midi dress with a shirred waist or bodice to create drama and movement.
Neutral earth tones like beige, brown and olive complement most skin tones.
Layer an oversized barn jacket on top, choosing one that is boxy and hits near the hem of the midi dress.
Finish with lace-up boots or block heels for a fashionista-approved ensemble.
This contrasting pairing of feminine dress with masculine jacket is flattering for all figures.
During a recent visit to a nearby cider mill and apple orchard, I wore a rust brown shirred bodice midi dress with billowy long sleeves and layered my boyfriend’s large tan Carhartt barn jacket on top.
The oversized jacket contrasted with the feminine midi dress beautifully.
I felt the outfit showed off my curves in a modest way, perfect for the family friendly apple orchard environment.
When the wind picked up, I was able to tie the jacket around my waist while still allowing the flowy dress fabric to sway around me.
I received many compliments from fellow apple pickers on the style combination.
My boyfriend was also thrilled to see me repurpose his old work jacket in such a creative way!
Statement Coat Over Barn Jacket and Jeans
For high-impact style, layer a bold coat or kimono over top a classic barn jacket and jeans ensemble.
Look for a lightweight statement coat in a bright color or eye-catching pattern like southwestern stripes or animal print.
Drape it over a traditional dark wash denim and barn jacket combo.
Finish with booties and a beanie for an effortlessly put-together look.
This adds a pop of color and femininity to a casual outfit.
It pulls focus while keeping you cozy on cold weather days.
Dress it up with heels and clutch for dinner out.
Last weekend, I went apple picking with friends at a local orchard.
The sunny fall morning was brisk.
I wore a black barn jacket over a cream thermal top and my favorite vintage wash high-waisted jeans
To add a festive flair, I layered a rust, navy and cream southwest printed kimono coat on top
For shoes, I chose brown lace-up ankle boots.
The statement kimono complemented the fall colors of the changing leaves beautifully and gave my casual outfit a bohemian upgrade.
It also conveniently kept me extra warm as the day got chillier picking apples.
I got lots of compliments from fellow apple pickers on the fun look.
The coat made my go-to jeans and barn jacket feel fresh and seasonal.
Barn Jacket with Leather Skirt and Tall Boots
Juxtapose the rugged feel of a barn jacket with an edgy leather skirt and tall boots for a daring night out ensemble.
Pair a short or midi leather skirt in black, brown or caramel with a well-fitting barn jacket.
Choose tall boots with minimal detailing that elongate your legs.
Add a silky camisole tucked in the skirt or a sleek bodysuit to keep the look streamlined.
Finish with a top handle satchel-style handbag.
This outfit channels biker chic style for an urban vibe.
It’s perfect for a night out dancing or a date night.
For my friend’s 30th birthday, we went out dancing at a lively club in the city.
I wore my trusty light wash denim barn jacket layered over a black faux leather midi skirt and olive green stretch satin camisole bodysuit tucked in.
I paired it with over-the-knee black leather boots.
The contrast of the feminine bodysuit and sleek leather skirt with my casual denim jacket gave the outfit a rocker vibe – ideal for dancing the night away.
Sweater Dress and Tights with Barn Jacket
For chic layered style, pair a sweater dress and tights with your barn jacket.
Look for a knit sweater dress that hits mid-thigh in a body skimming silhouette.
Neutrals like gray, navy or oatmeal work well for cool weather.
Add opaque tights and ankle boots.
Layer a barn jacket on top for extra warmth.
Finish with a circle or envelope-style crossbody bag.
This creates a cute daytime look for running errands or meeting friends for brunch.
It provides the comfort of a dress with the warmth of wintery layers.
On a recent crisp Saturday, I met a friend for an afternoon catching up over coffee.
I wore a midi-length cream cable knit sweater dress with black opaque tights and black ankle boots.
I layered my army green barn jacket on top when the chill got more intense in the evening.
The outfit was stylish yet cozy for the long catch up session – ideal for transitioning from a day spent out and about to dinner and nightcaps later on.
My outfit got approving nods from my fashionable friend.
I also received compliments from our waitress, who loved how I styled the barn jacket as the perfect topper for the dress and tights.
The look was feminine, flattering and most importantly, kept me warm as the temperatures dipped.
Bomber Jacket Over Barn Jacket and Joggers
Bomb the barn jacket by layering it with a bomber jacket and joggers for weekend sportswear style.
Start with your trusty barn jacket in brown, tan or army green over joggers.
Look for cuffed joggers in a coordinating neutral.
Layer a black or white bomber jacket on top for cool contrast.
Finish with chunky sneakers in white or vibrant retro colors.
This creates an athleisure outfit perfect for running errands or relaxed weekends.
The layered look is also ideal for keeping you extra cozy on the way to the gym.
Skip the jacket layers and swap in leggings for your workout.
My go-to weekend outfit lately has been a comfy taupe barn jacket and matching joggers with a black bomber layered on top and my white platform sneakers.
The casual sporty look is perfect for my relaxing Sundays which often include a trip to the farmers’ market and coffee shop to get my week started on the right foot.
The bomber jacket elevates the laidback barn jacket and joggers combo.
I often get compliments from fellow weekend errand-running neighbors who love the relaxed yet put together vibe of my outfit.
While staying cozy, it still looks a step above pajamas, which helps motivate me to actually get out the door on chillier Sundays!
The outfit layers also easily transition from running errands to meeting friends for a casual dinner.
Cropped Hoodie with High-Waisted Jeans and Barn Jacket
Add a touch of athletic edge to your barn jacket by layering it over a cropped hoodie and high-waisted jeans.
Choose a fitted cropped hoodie that hits right at your natural waistline in a neutral color like gray, army green or black.
Pair it with classic blue wash high-waisted jeans.
Add your barn jacket on top, leaving it open to showcase the hoodie.
Finish with white platform sneakers.
This creates a casual weekend outfit with a sporty vibe.
It’s perfect for grabbing brunch with friends or doing casual errands.
I recently wore this ensemble of a fitted black cropped hoodie, light wash Levi’s jeans, my old blue denim barn jacket and white Converse high tops to meet friends for Sunday brunch at our favorite neighborhood diner.
The athletic hoodie contrasted with the classic denim barn jacket and jeans nicely.
I loved being able to show off my midriff a bit with the cropped length but still stay warm by layering the jacket on top.
My friends all complimented how casually cool the look was while still being cute enough for our girls’ weekend brunch date.
I felt confident and comfortable enough in the sporty layers to unbutton the jacket and eat a hearty meal!
Silky Camisole and Skirt with Oversized Barn Jacket
Feminize your barn jacket by layering it over a silky camisole and flowy skirt.
Look for a satiny camisole tank with delicate straps and lace trimming paired with a midi or maxi skirt in crepe, chiffon or charmeuse.
Drape an oversized, broke-in barn jacket on top.
Finish with strappy heels for evening cocktails or flat sandals for daytime.
For date night at a new modern speakeasy-style cocktail bar, I wore a black satin camisole tank tucked into a leopard print charmeuse midi skirt.
I layered my boyfriend’s large brown suede barn jacket on top for contrast.
To elongate my legs, I chose black strappy sandal heels.
The slinky top and skirt peeking out from the rugged oversized jacket created an alluring yet easy look perfect for sipping martinis.
I felt feminine and a little naughty in the outfit.
Lightweight Button Down and Cropped Trousers with Barn Jacket
For breezy transitional weather style, pair a lightweight button down and cropped trousers with a barn jacket.
Look for an airy chambray or gauze button down shirt.
Tuck it into cropped trousers that hit mid-calf.
Layer a barn jacket on top, leaving it open for movement.
Complete the look with low slip-on sneakers or slides.
This creates a relaxed yet polished outfit, great for warm fall days or spring evenings.
It’s the perfect way to enjoy dining al fresco as the seasons change.
I recently met friends for an outdoor happy hour on a warm fall evening.
I wore a loose light denim button down shirt half tucked into khaki cropped trousers.
I layered an olive green barn jacket on top but kept it unbuttoned.
For shoes I chose white slip-on sneakers.
As the breezy evening progressed, I was able to take the jacket off and enjoy the last days of summery weather.
But when the chill picked up after sunset, it was easy to quickly throw the jacket back on.
My friends loved the effortlessly stylish and seasonally appropriate look.
I received lots of compliments on creatively styling the traditional barn jacket over the polished yet laidback separates.
As these outfit ideas demonstrate, the classic barn jacket can be so much more than just casual outerwear.
This humble staple has endless styling potential for chic modern looks.
Vintage military surplus barn jackets offer broken-in, oversized comfort but newer iterations with modern silhouettes and details give you options for a fitted shape.
So pull your barn jacket out of storage or thrift a vintage find and start creating fashion-forward looks worthy of the trendiest streets in any season!
