Summer Jacket Guide

Summer is indeed upon us, with many of the national papers reporting that today is going to be the hottest day of the year. Bearing all this in mind I thought I would cover a summer (and indeed all year) necessity - the sport jacket.

To give you a little background on the subject (forgive me if I'm covering old news), the sports jacket has evolved from hunting and outdoor sport clothing, similar to a suit jacket but less formal. Likewise with the blazer which comes from a sailing background, if I wanted to be pedantic then a blazer has metal buttons and patch pockets, but today the two names are often interchangeable.

So what do we look for in a jacket ? Style ? Practicality ? Mere warmth ? Your best bet for a summer jacket are linen's and cotton's, though don't rule out other materials if you like the look of it.

Let's start of with some lovely blues...

This is a nice little navy blue number with brown detailing. The polyester material may slightly let it down, but the look and the price make it a worth while consideration.

Something built with the summer in mind ? This jacket is cotton so you should look and feel cool whilst out and about. The colour is a bit more striking so you stand out from the crowd of grey and black office drones.

Why not go even bolder with this pleasing red ? Another 100% cotton piece that is only half lined for extra breathability. This is brighter than my usual style but I must say I'm tempted. Or perhaps the second, more subdued style.

Not your thing ? Perhaps we should move in to the softer colours, another half lined piece with nice pocket detail.

Missing Matt Smith's tenure as the Doctor ? Channel your inner Time Lord with this check linen jacket, Tardis not included. 

Don't dismiss the dark colours just because it's summer. This cotton jacket piece will bring out the other colours you're wearing, paired with some good chino's and your on a winner.

How about some Riviera style with a stone coloured cotton jacket - perfect for sipping chilled cocktails in a sun kissed mariner. 

Perhaps you prefer something a bit more designer ? these two offerings from Ted Baker would compliment any wardrobe.
The dark blue (one of my favourite colours if you hadn't guessed) will add a refined style to any outfit.

The light grey is linen with a nice splash of colour on the chest pocket detail.

The Gentleman