In 2020 at home, casual style was taking over the scene with co-ord sweatsuits, graphic hoodies and fuzzy slip-ons. Well 2020 is over and it’s finally time to dress to impress – the only problem is now that we’ve gotten a taste of the cozy, how are we supposed to leave that behind?

2021 spring fashion trends are all about being comfortable while stepping back out into the world for the first time in months. What we’re all really looking for is how we bring our new comfy lounge aesthetics outside.

One FW20 trend that has transitioned to the spring of 2021 is the shacket (or shirt jacket). This oversized utility shirt trend is just what it sounds like: a shirt that can be worn as a jacket, dress, or (obviously) an oversized shirt. It is a perfect combination of a tailored button down look with a more cozy, spacious feel that makes it extremely versatile.

How to style a shacket

There are so many different ways to incorporate this key item into your early spring looks for the season. From the different types of shackets, to how you style them up (or down) – they are a great stand alone piece, or extra layer for the chillier nights.

If you follow current fashion trends season to season, you know just how exhausting it can be to watch trends go out of style just as quickly as they came in. That’s why timeless, essential fashion pieces like these utility styles shirts are such a great way to follow the trend, without the wardrobe waste. You can do just about anything with them, and they’ve obviously withstood the test of time.

It’s months since this trend first took off, and we are still seeing them everywhere. Why? The comfort and versatility, hands down.

These shackets come in so many different styles whether it’s cropped, short, or long. They also are seen in every pattern and material Imaginable. Some highlights of the season have been basics, plaid, flannel, teddy, corduroy, and faux leather. As you can probably tell, teddy has been my go-to.

When it starts to get warmer, opt for a more lightweight version you can layer over biker shorts or a 2-piece athleisure set for a look that’s airy and versatile.

Where to wear a shirt… jacket, dress (you get the idea)

How you wear it is up to you. There is no seasonal rule out there that says you can’t wear after a certain day or to a certain occasion. This ensemble essential is made for any day, any way. Layer this piece with a matching sweatsuit and sneakers for a cozy WFH day or for model-off-duty street style.

Outdoor dining still a bit too chilly for your spring dresses? Be bold and style this shacket as a dress paired with a mini bag and heels. For this look, I’ve styled the teddy coat with a Prada bag and black Tamara Mellon boots for some edge. As the weather warms, you cans swap out the boots for a pair of barely there kitten heels and a pastel handbag for a springy pop.

Versatility, comfort and ease, this is the perfect transitional piece to wear now, and dig back out again for those outdoor adventures in the fall. Wear these jackets layered over a turtleneck and under an overcoat throughout the colder temps, or you can throw it on over a lightweight tee with little effort required.

Who What Wear suggests “Pair your shacket over a knit turtleneck with leather trousers and lug sole boots for an effortlessly cool weekend look that’s wholly on-trend.”

Then try a tweed or plaid shacket for a smart street style look. Whether you’re working from home, running errands, or using the street as your own personal catwalk, this fresh, yet timeless look will keep you chic.

Spotted wearing the trend

Not only has Vogue and Who What Where been absolutely raving about the shacket trend for months, it has also been spotted on celebrities all across the board. Models, actresses, singers and stars have been sporting this style all fall and winter. Vogue has spotted new mom Gigi Hadid during a recent coffee run in NYC styled with a knee-length, plaid shacket over a denim-on-denim outfit.

Vogue also featured Lily Collins rocking shackets a few times this fall. “Lily Collins has been a source of shacket outfit inspiration over the last couple of weeks. Her recent paparazzi pictures prove the shacket’s versatility. She’s layered the boxy top over T-shirts and turtlenecks, proving a mastery of French style that outpaces her Emily in Paris character.” If you don’t want to take it from us, take it from the celebs.

Where to snag a shacket

If you’re ready to tuck away those big puffer coats of the winter and accept this incredible style for spring, then shop some of these steals to hold you over for warmer weather. If you’re looking for something similar to this look, shop the AllSaints Sophie Sherpa jacket.

Want something more lightweight to transition you into summer style? Asos has a similar brushed shacket that you can grab for a steal.

Want to start incorporating more prints in your life? Plaid shackets are a favorite in the trend. You can shop this oversized shirt jacket from Mango that works great on its own, or as a transitional style summer layer when styled over a bralette or mini crop.

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your wardrobe this spring without having to give up the comfort of all those quarantine trends, then the shacket is for you. Use as a layering technique or style as a full shirt or dress for the mornings, day, and nights. Find the design that fits with your style most and run with it. Dress it up or down, and most importantly, make it absolutely you.