Sunday, April 26, 2015

Spring Casual: The Versatile Jacket


When I think of casual outerwear for spring and cooler summer weather, my mind immediately goes to jean jackets, hoodie sweatshirts or anoraks. However, none of these, with the exception of my white jean jacket, works for me when I'm styling something to wear out to lunch or a casual dinner. Recently, the folks at Territory Ahead, a clothing line with lots of casual styles, asked me to review their Shirred Slub Knit Jacket (photo above). It was a gorgeous day yesterday (note the cloudless blue sky over my head) and I decided to give the jacket a "test run" out to lunch on the waterfront with my husband.

COMFORTABLE JACKET FOR SKIRTS OR JEANS
As you can see, I styled my new jacket with a white colored blouse and skirt. I had to laugh when I got down to the waterfront because a lot of people--men and women--were wearing white. I think after the rough winter we had in the Northeast, everyone was in the mood to celebrate yesterday's warm weather by bringing out their summer whites.

The Shirred Slub Knit Jacket ($99) is well-made of a lightweight cotton/rayon knit fabric. The size is true to that shown on the site's size chart. The relaxed fit and good length (29") make it a super comfortable piece. It's roomy, yet has light shirring across the front and back, which gives it shape. And it's machine washable, which I appreciate. Unlike a jean jacket, which I always take off at a restaurant, this relaxed cotton jacket is comfortable enough to leave on when eating al fresco on the breezy waterfront or in a highly air-conditioned dining room.

Since I'm always counting my pennies, I shop for clothing and accessories that can be worn with a variety of separates already in my closet. This jacket works well with both pencil skirts and jeans...




I am excited to discover the Territory Ahead site. The clothing brand offers a nice collection of moderately-priced casual separates, including tunics, long Puma T-shirts, relaxed linen slacks and skirts, boyfriend sweaters and even shoes and jewelry. If you're looking for casual pieces to add to your spring and summer wardrobe, I highly recommend you take a peek at Territory Ahead.