Denim jackets are great at making fashion statements, especially if worn with complimenting outfits. But besides fashion, can these casual jean jackets help chase away the cold during winter?
A denim jacket can keep you warm if it’s thick enough. While a denim jacket is made for spring and summer weather, a thicker jean jacket with a fur collar and wool between the inner lining and outer fabric can help you keep the cold at bay during the winter.
Read on as we examine the different types and features of denim jackets and how you can use these casual jackets to stand out during both summer and winter weather.
The different types of denim jackets.
Denim jackets are easily among the most versatile apparel an individual can own. Depending on taste and preference, you can find just about any type of denim jacket under the sun. Male denim jackets are usually plainer than designs meant for women. You can also expect male jean jackets to be average in size, neither too small nor too large.
Female denim jackets, on the other hand, can swing in any direction in terms of size. It is not unusual to spot cropped, tight-fitting denim jackets on ladies during the summer. However, for much colder days, long or oversized denim jackets are usually the preferred options as they help in wind-breaking by covering the entire upper torso.
What makes a denim jacket warm?
The denim jacket has enormously evolved since its creation by Levi Strauss. Unlike the initial designs that were primarily inspired by jeans material, modern-day denim jackets are trendy as they incorporate different styles both in the inner lining and outer fabric.
These additional styles, especially in the inner lining, play a crucial role in determining whether denim jackets can be used during the winter.
Ideally, you’d want to go for denim designs with thick inner linings to curb the cold during those chilly winter days or nights. As designers become increasingly creative in their designs, more materials are being used to make denim jackets warmer as discussed below.
Fur
Most denim jackets that are designed for cold weather come packed with a balanced distribution of fur. From the collar to the breast and even the arm sections, these denim jackets are ideal for retaining body heat and can keep you warm enough during cold weather.
Hoods
You can count on a hooded denim jacket to keep you warm during chilly weather. The hood sections are usually reinforced with thick cotton or even fur to retain as much heat as possible. Buying slightly larger hooded denim jackets will allow you to put on an additional sweater or jumper and stay super warm.
Tough Outer Lining
Summer-inspired denim jackets are more often than not light due to the use of soft jeans fabric in production. However, denim jackets that are ideal for cold weather are usually made from tough jeans fabric that helps to keep the internal lining warm. As such, when looking to buy a denim jacket for cold weather, it is advisable to check the outer lining to ensure it is made from tough and thick fabric.
Tips for Staying Warm When Wearing a Denim Jacket
While a heavy, cotton laced denim jacket might help keep you warm, you can also use these tips to stay extra warm and remain fashionable during winter.
Buy slightly larger Denim jackets: Ideally, you’d want to get a denim jacket that leaves enough space for other outfits, especially sweaters on the inside. It’s not always about what the jacket can do, but rather the space it can allow for further reinforcements.
Select Darker Shades: It might be tempting to play with colors as you look to stunt in your denim jacket. However, dark colors will help to draw in and retain more heat, thus keeping you warm during cold weather. A black fur-collared denim jacket, for instance, is ideal for chilly nights as it will retain as much heat as possible.
Accessorize: Denim jackets are the kings (or queens) of casual. You can wear virtually anything with your denim jacket, especially if you know how to play around with accessories. Consider putting on a thick scarf or snood that matches with your denim jacket. It might not seem like much, but keeping your neck and upper chest warm can go a long way in staying extra warm.
Thick is the Pick: Granted, some light denim designs can have well-distributed fur and keep you warm. But nothing beats a cotton-padded thick denim jacket with a fur collar. It is advisable to select jackets that not only retain heat but also act as windbreakers.
Choose Blended Denim Designs: Denim manufacturers are coming up with more fashionable and weather-friendly denim jacket designs. For instance, some denim jackets are part-cotton (especially on the hands) to help retain more heat. You can buy such jackets to stay extra warm during winter.
Dress Warm: A denim jacket alone is not enough to keep you warm. Be sure to wear garments that also help conserve heat to retain as much warmth as possible. Those extra warm boots will also come in handy in keeping you warm.
Layer your Denim under a Coat: You can also wear light denim under heavier coats to keep warm. Doing so will ensure that you remain fashionable and show off your jean jacket once it gets warmer.
Buy Denim Jackets with Pockets: As highly fashionable apparel, some denim jackets come without pockets. While this style might be ideal during the warmer spring and summer months, it can leave you thoroughly exposed during winter. Settle for pocketed denim jackets that allow you enough space to sneak up your fingers for added warmth.
Zipped over Buttoned Denim Jackets: Zipped jean jackets are generally warmer and more convenient for winter weather. If you choose to wear a buttoned denim jacket, it is advisable to gear up accordingly by wearing a warm sweater underneath or an even lighter jacket.
Where can I find a warm denim jacket?
Finding warm denim jackets shouldn’t be a tough task. Depending on your taste, preferences, and, of course, budget, you can choose from tens if not hundreds of online or brick and mortar stores. Industry leaders like Levi`s and Topman, however, have a wide range of denim jackets that you`ll be glad to lay your hands on.
When selecting stores to purchase a jean jacket, compare factors such as pricing, the lining material used, and the overall design. Be sure to buy weather-friendly jackets by asking before making a purchase. Some oversized jackets might appear ideal for winter weather only to disappoint, especially if made from light denim fabric.
Final takeaway.
A denim jacket can keep you warm and fashionable at the same time. However, to keep extra warm during the cold season, it is advisable to go for winter-friendly denim jackets. These jackets are usually padded with thick layers of fur or cotton that help to keep you warm.
It is also advisable to buy slightly larger denim jackets than your body size to allow enough room for putting on warm sweaters, scarves, or even snoods.
Provided you buy the right type of denim jacket for cold weather, you will be well-positioned to beat the cold and stay extra warm.
Chris is a Texas-based freelance writer who loves the outdoors and working in his garage. When he’s not enjoying the Texas sun, he can be found tinkering with all sorts of things in his workshop.