The chore jacket was originally a garment worn by farmhands during chilly mornings on the job. The boxy number had the look of a loose fitting shirt, only it was heavier and more durable, making it ideal for layering and fighting off frost-inducing temps. Today, many menswear designers have taken the work jacket, given it a trim and a bit of fine-tuning, and released a more style-focused version. These modern chore jackets are perfect for this time of year. Even if you aren’t waking with the roosters, here are 7 of the best chore jackets to wear this season.
Vetra Cotton Linen Herringbone Jacket
Vetra has been making durable workwear in Paris since 1927. Over the years, they’ve outfitted the French military and a slew of tradesmen overseas. Now they can outfit you. This Cotton Linen Herringbone Jacket is the perfect shirt/coat to welcome fall weather. Since it’s unlined, it allows for heavier garments to be worn underneath. It hides an interior breast pocket and the straight hem and regular fit ensure you won’t feel constricted if you happen to wear a thick button-down with it. $161
Apolis Wool Chore Jacket
Crafted from two different indigo dyed wools, this chore coat from Apolis offers subtle shifts in color and texture. And when you study the fabric up close to see that, you’ll notice some of the other fine details Apolis chose—fallen buffalo horn fisheye buttons, a hidden pocket, and signature Apolis red plus sign. Each is made in the USA out of fabric from Italy that’s exclusive to Apolis. Best of all, the wool build is just what you need when the harvest season comes to a close. $278
Carhartt WIP Michigan Chore Coat
Everything Carhartt makes has workwear roots. This Michigan Chore Coat, from Carhartt’s Work in Progress line, is no different. With a contrasting collar reminiscent of a Filson jacket and a collection of personalized buttons, the Michigan Chore Coat’s beauty is in its details. And since it’s made from water repellent fabric, this Carhartt jacket is the perfect option for tossing over a flannel button-down on a windy, rainy day. $258
Pointer Brand Indigo Denim Chore Coat
There are plenty of awesome Japanese craftsmen making denim chore coats, as the style has been adopted by many in Tokyo and beyond. The problem with a lot of these is that the price tag reflects the incredibly rare denim used in their construction. For a good-looking and far, far more affordable option, turn to Pointer Brand. Woven by Cone Denim Mills in Greensboro, North Carolina, this chore coat won’t set you back hundreds of dollars. $107
Save Khaki Herringbone Overdye Field Shirt
Save Khaki does far more than craft comfortable, attractive pants. In fact, we’ve become big fans of their shirts and outerwear over the last few years. The perfect marriage of both is this Herringbone Overdye Field Shirt, which can be tossed over t-shirts and worn like a jacket, or thrown over a heavy button-down and worn like a coat. Made in the USA out of herringbone that has been brushed for softness, the Field Jacket boasts a straight hem and a regular fit to accommodate whatever shirt you’re wearing underneath. $275
Universal Works Wool Chore Jacket
Built with lightweight insulation, this Wool Chore Jacket from Universal Works is equally equipped for the start of winter as it is the throes of fall. Complete with a stylish 5-button closure and a collection of exterior pockets, the Wool Chore Jacket from Universal Works is one of our favorite options when layering season comes calling. The quilted look also delivers a textural component to any outfit. $400
RRL Penny-Collar Linen and Cotton-Blend Overshirt
If you’re looking for an option a little more fitted and flattering, consider this overshirt from Ralph Lauren’s RRL line. The linen and cotton blend means it’s more suited for tackling a crisp breeze than handling freezing temps, but, hey, global warming, right? While it’s not crafted from denim, the indigo gives it that appearance. As unseasonably warm weather engulfs parts of the U.S., this might be the perfect chore coat for you to wear. $295
