The Western Jacket Trend That's Perfect For Transitional Dressing

Enter March: The time of the year when frosty and bitter cold mornings turn into sunny, brisk days as spring finally arrives. You may adore winter for its cozy knits and weatherproof-yet-stylish boots, but by the time spring rolls around, you are ready to ditch your winter coats for something a bit more exciting. Luckily for you, western-inspired styles are a major Spring 2019 trend, so break out your fringe jacket ASAP.

On the runways, the likes of Oscar de la Renta and Coach revamped fringe, transforming it into a festive and funky way to indulge in the western trend without going too kitsch (no cowboy hat needed). Like any other transitional piece, a fringe jacket can do two things: both stand alone, as well as be layered with another jacket of similar weight so you can balance it out with something a bit more streamlined. Worth noting: On the street, fringe jackets in a suede or leather iterations have been a particularly popular way to pull off transitional dressing.

Ahead, you’ll find seven fringe jacket ensembles to help you tackle this transitional trend without ever feeling over-the-top or cheesy.

Over a Structured Blazer

If layering has been your savior for staying warm in frigid temps this past winter, why not layer for super unpredictable days in March? Embrace a suede fringe coat in a new way by layering it over a blazer in a similar hue. Neutral dressing is big for spring and layering a structured silhouette under a western-inspired coat is the perfect way to road-test the trend. Keep the accessories in the same color palette and opt for a simple black pant with a stylish front slit.

Western Sporty-Chic

For the days the sun comes out and you’re ready to ditch your pants, dress up a biker shorts ensemble with a light, neutral-colored fringe coat (like the one below from DanCassab). No matter what the day’s temps are, a western-inspired leather jacket atop sporty biker shorts will be polished enough to get you through the day. A simple bag and dainty heel are the perfect finishing touches for this sporty-chic look.

Long Lines

This past fashion month, oversized silhouettes ruled the streets. Case in point: this electric blue fringe jacket. If you’re all for the fringe trend, swap your cropped option for something that could double as a dress. An oversized structured topper is the perfect piece to layer over all of your warm favorites for the unpredictable chilly days. A cow print boot with the bright hue is a modern-yet-unexpected pairing.

A Check Statement

Check coats were on the rise for winter and are still perfectly stylish for spring, too. A check jacket with fringe detail is a super luxe way to adopt the trend. Keep the rest of the outfit neutral with a simple sweater and black denim. To complete it, add contrasting white boots that pack a major punch for transitional fashion.

With Cool Denim

You can’t go wrong with denim, a white t-shirt, and statement coat to ease into spring weather. Embrace the western trend in the easiest way possible by pairing it with one of your go-to jeans in a lighter hue. Let the small details reinvigorate the jeans by opting for a trend-forward square-toe boot and a warm beanie to go with the fringe.

A Longer Style

Long coats have been a staple this winter and a fringe iteration makes for the perfect reinvention. Take your feminine shirts into the new season by layering a sweater under the statement coat to add just the right amount of sophistication to the western piece. Play with proportions and contrast by pairing the cozy top with looser jeans or black bottoms for a polished ensemble.

Edgy Leather

As illustrated below, a quick way to pull together an outfit for unexpected temps is to top off your look with a cool leather coat. If you’re not ready to let go of all black for spring, don’t fret. Opt for a suede and leather coat in black and brown. Then, all you need to finish are great-fitting pieces like black jeans and a black turtleneck.