A shearling jacket is one of the easiest pieces to wear and one of the hardest to get wrong, but a few simple rules make it look even better. This guide shows you how to wear a shearling jacket for men and women, with outfit ideas for daily wear, work and evenings out, plus tips on colours, layers and fit.
Start With the Fit
Any outfit looks better when the jacket fits. A shearling jacket should sit comfortably on the shoulders, leave room for a thin layer underneath and end at the right length for the style: at the waist for a bomber, at mid thigh for a car coat and below the knee for a long coat. If you are between sizes, our size guide explains how to choose, and we can also make a jacket to your measurements.
Let the Jacket Be the Statement
Shearling already has plenty of texture, so keep the rest of the outfit simple. Plain colours, clean lines and a limited palette let the jacket stand out. Black, navy, grey, white and denim blue all work well.
Everyday Outfit Ideas
Jacket, tee and dark jeans
The classic. A white or grey tee, dark jeans and boots or clean trainers. It works with a B3 bomber, an aviator or a biker style. Browse our shearling jackets to see the options.
Jacket, roll neck and boots
For cold days, swap the tee for a thin roll neck. Keep the layers slim so the jacket still sits well.
Jacket, chunky knit and cords
A heavy knit and corduroy trousers give a relaxed, outdoorsy look. Go one size up in the jacket if you wear thick knits.
Smarter Outfit Ideas
Jacket, shirt and chinos
Wear a crisp shirt, tucked or untucked, with chinos and leather boots. This works for casual offices and dinners.
Long shearling coat over tailoring
A long coat looks excellent over a suit or smart trousers. See our long coats for longer styles.
Outfit Ideas for Women
A shearling bomber works well with high waisted jeans, a fitted knit and ankle boots. For a dressier look, wear it over a slip dress or tailored trousers with heeled boots. A longer coat looks great over leggings and a long knit. Our women’s jackets range is cut for women, so the fit is easier to get right.
Using Colour
Brown shearling pairs well with olive, cream, grey and denim. Black shearling goes with almost everything. Lighter shades look good against dark clothes and suit winter well. Two tone jackets add interest, so keep the rest of the outfit plain.
What to Avoid
- Too many layers. Bulky layers under a shearling jacket make it hang badly.
- Busy patterns. Loud prints compete with the texture of the jacket.
- Wet weather. Shearling is not waterproof, so keep it for dry days.
- Heat. Do not dry it on a radiator or with a hairdryer.
Keeping It Looking Good
Wipe the hide with a damp cloth, brush the wool and hang the jacket on a wide hanger in a cool place. A well looked after jacket lasts for many winters. See our FAQ for care tips.
Common Questions
Can I wear a shearling jacket in spring?
Yes, open over a tee on mild days. In warm weather it will feel too heavy.
Can I wear a shearling jacket to work?
Yes, especially over a shirt or knit. A long coat or a plain collar style looks smartest.
Do men and women wear shearling differently?
The same outfits work for both. The main difference is the cut, so choose a style made for your frame.
Where can I find the right size?
Use our size guide or message us through the contact page with your measurements.
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