Morning drop-off is beginning to get a bit chilly which means I’m a happy happy gal. It’s time guys, it’s finally time! This slight chill in the air is the signal I’ve been waiting for — my beloved coatigan can come out of its summer hibernation and PLAY.
Coatigans, cardigans, cardigan-jackets, sweater-jackets, sweater-blazers, cardigan-coats… this garment has WAY too many names for sure. It doesn’t really matter, though, what they’re officially called. I’m just delighted these versatile and trusted top layers are back in the mix.
* My coatigan is currently on major sale!
30% off with code SALETIME or for Passport Members (free email signup) 40% off with code EXCLUSIVE!
coatigan (s) | striped sweater (s) | denim (29) | bag | sneaks
J.Crew Coatigans: The Ultimate Fall Layer
For the past several years, I’ve tried on and reviewed almost ALL the J.Crew coatigans. If you have followed The Mom Edit for a while, you know I ADORE wearing these types of soft and comfortable layers, so it’s always fun to check out the new arrivals and see how these newbies work with go-to staple outfits.
This fall, however, I’m doing something different. J.Crew’s selection of coatigan styles is not as extensive as previous years, and I was initially disappointed in the selection when looking to do my annual “try-on”.
I realized quite quickly, though, that this was not going to be a problem at ALL because my overall top pick for J.Crew coatigans (the one I wore on repeat last year and just can’t quit wearing) is back in stock AND available in 4 great colorways.
sweater-blazer (xs & s) | striped sweater (s) | denim (29) | bag | sneaks
***Note: THIS brand new cocoon coatigan was JUST released (after I finished this post), so I AM obviously going to have to try it. Looks pretty dreamy, but I’m pretty sure I still like the slightly more structured look of mine.
J.Crew Ella Sweater Blazer (i.e.Coatigan): Chic, Versatile & Budget-Friendly
I will admit that I do indulge in the higher-end Vince coatigans as well as an occasional playful designer cardigan by MOTHER — when you wear coatigans and cardigans on the daily, it’s nice to have a bit of variety. When it comes to finding coatigans that are versatile and more budget-friendy than designer, though, J.Crew is absolutely my top pick.
Specifically, the Ella.
And ESPECIALLY when she’s on sale. Currently 30% off with code SALETIME or if you’re a Passport Member (free signup), it’s 40% off!!!
Comfortable and in no way restricting of movement, warm enough for very chilly days when layered over a sweater, the perfect not-too-heavy / not-too-light weight, modern long-line shape, a chic collar, clean-lined lapels, and wait for it….pockets! BIG (yet stylish) pockets.
Easy & Chic Coatigan Outfits For Fall
When I’m first trying out new coatigans, I like to first see how they look over my simple go-to outfits that I throw on without thinking. For me, that’s jeans & stripes; neutral-toned combinations, workout wear, and black pants. They have to look good with my basics to even be considered, and the Ella sweater-blazer (coatigan) from J.Crew works with everything.
1. Simple Outfit Ideas For J.Crew Sweater Blazer In Beige
coatigan (s) | hoodie (s) | joggers (m) | bag | sneaks
I actually didn’t think I was going to fall in love this particular “heather birch” color because I usually gravitate toward warmer-toned beiges and camels but I ended up loving it when I started trying it on with all my simple go-to combinations. It played nicely with warmer colors in the mix, so if you’re looking for a beige coatigan, this one is easy-to-wear.
left: coatigan (s) | tan sweater (s-p) | trousers (29p) | sneaks
right: coatigan (s) | top (xs) | pants (28p) | boots
Sizing notes: I’m wearing a size small in the beige coatigan. Often in lighter colors I like to size up, and I was happy with the oversized look and fit in this one. I’m 5’2, 140-ish lbs.
2. Simple Outfit Ideas For J.Crew Sweater Blazer In Black
coatigan (xs) | hoodie (s) | joggers (m) | bag | sneaks
I tore the tags off immediately on this black one when it arrived. Yes, I have other black coatigans, but not one with this chic longer line, and my other black top layers are too warm and heavy for these transitional fall days. I’ve been throwing this one on over a tank top to my morning exercise class and even when I don’t need it after class (when the sun has warmed everything up), it’s not so heavy that I get totally overheated. SUCH a good fall weight.
left: coatigan (xs) | tan sweater (s-p) | trousers (29p) | sneaks
right: coatigan (xs) | top (xs) | pants (28p) | boots
Sizing notes: I’m wearing an XS in the black coatigan. I like the slimmer more streamlined fit in the black, so I was happy I sized down, but if you want a more oversized fit, go with your typical coatigan/cardigan size. I’m 5’2, 140-ish lbs.
3. Simple Outfit Ideas For J.Crew Sweater Blazer In Gray
coatigan (xs) | hoodie (s) | joggers (m) | bag | sneaks
Ooooooh. This charcoal gray is REALLY pretty. If you were eyeing the Vince coatigan that sold out quickly during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, this one has a very similar vibe. Not as bulky and heavy, though, so like I mentioned….absolutely perfect for these early fall days or layered over a heavy sweater later on.
left: coatigan (xs) | tan sweater (s-p) | trousers (29p) | sneaks
right: coatigan (xs) | top (xs) | pants (28p) | boots
Sizing notes: Wearing an XS here in the charcoal gray and happy with the fit, but if you want a more oversized feel go with your typical coatigan size (I sized down). I’m 5’2, 140-ish lbs.
4. Simple Outfit Ideas For J.Crew Sweater Blazer In Green
coatigan (xs) | hoodie (s) | leggings (m) | bag | sneaks
And now we get to the green. This was not my favorite. BUT…it has already sold out in some sizes, so I’m obviously in the minority here. It’s not my green and I found it difficult to figure out what it looked best with. BUT…if you’re a bold green gal, go for it! Feels great on, and definitely makes a statement.
left: coatigan (xs) | top (xs) | trousers (29p) | sneaks
right: coatigan (xs) | top (xs) | pants (28p) | boots
Sizing notes: Wearing XS. In brighter statement colors, I tend to like a more oversized fit, so for the green I wish I would have gone with my typical size S for a more relaxed and intentionally oversized look. I’m 5’2, 140-ish lbs.
I don’t think I’m EVER going to get tried of trying on all the coatigans, you guys, so I’m grateful that many of you readers out there are with me on this wardrobe staple. I did fall in love with a fancy quilted jacket and rounded up some similar ones, but on the day-to-day…it’s hard for me not to grab those trusted and beloved coatigans.
Go Team Coatigans!
-Linzi
