Red outerwear has been having an unusually good run. The colour has moved beyond the realm of the statement coat, turning up instead on track jackets, nylon windbreakers, and other easy, zip-through layers. The effect is less about dressing up in red and more about using it to add interest to something familiar.
They’re particularly suited to this awkward stretch between summer and autumn, when a proper winter coat still feels premature but a lightweight layer is usually required. A red jacket can give a pair of jeans and a T-shirt some energy, make tailored trousers feel less formal and bring a distinctly sporty edge to an otherwise understated outfit.
Red jackets on the runway
The autumn/winter 2026 shows confirmed that red outerwear is no longer reserved for structured tailored coats or eveningwear. Instead, designers embraced sportier, relaxed silhouettes, leaning heavily into function meets fashion.
Lacoste was all about retro sportswear, showcasing oversized, colour-blocked nylon track jackets paired with matching slouchy trousers and athletic holdalls, while Patou offered a more romantic take on functional layering. Styling a bold red zip-up jacket over a matching fluid midi skirt, the brand played with volume, dramatic collars, and subtle plaid-lined sleeve details.
Red jackets on the street
Off the runway, street style has set the blueprint for integrating red jackets into real world autumn dressing. Basic neutral coats have been overwhelmingly swapped for sporty, high-impact red zip-ups, blending functionality with high fashion. From slouchy jeans to structured denim midi skirts, crisp wide-leg tailored trousers and ultra-feminine satin shorts, the current consensus is you can throw one on over pretty much anything.
© Getty Images
© Getty Images
© Getty ImagesIf you’ve been looking for an excuse to introduce a little more red into your autumn wardrobe, these are eight of the best jackets to shop now, from directional sportswear to everyday layers.
The best red jackets to shop this season
M&S Contrast Piped Funnel Neck Windbreaker Jacket
Editor’s Note:
Marks & Spencer’s viral windbreaker just dropped in red and it’s set to sell out. It has the perfect boxy, slightly oversized cut and features cool contrast piping.
Dissh Jean Red Track Jacket
Editor’s Note:
Another piece that’s on everyone’s wish list, this red funnel neck track jacket from Dissh is made from 100% cotton and cut with an elasticated hem.
Massimo Dutti Lightweight Cotton Jacket
Editor’s Note:
If you want something slightly less sporty, I love this red button-down jacket from Massimo Dutti. It’s made from lightweight cotton and has an oversized collar.
Staud Alta Jacket
Editor’s Note:
You’ll want to wear Staud’s Alta jacket with everything this autumn. As well as the cool two-tone design, it comes with practical details like a storm flap, hood and spacious pockets.
& Other Stories 80s-Inspired Bomber Jacket
Editor’s Note:
& Other Stories’ red bomber jacket comes padded for extra warmth as we move into the colder weather. I love it styled with black slouchy denim.
Bershka Oversized Nylon Batwing Sleeve Jacket
Editor’s Note:
Bershka’s sell-out red track jacket has just dropped back in stock. It features an oversized cut and subtle voluminous sleeves.
Bondi Active Forma Cropped Windbreaker
Editor’s Note:
Lightweight and 100% waterproof with a hidden hood, Bondi Active’s track jacket is the ultimate transitional piece. I love the multi-tone design.
Sporty & Rich Retro Track Jacket
Editor’s Note:
Sporty & Rich are famed for their elegant activewear, and this retro track jacket is super soft and sleek. Matching trousers and shorts are both available.
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