How to Style a Harrington Jacket for Casual and Smart Looks

The Harrington jacket is one of the most versatile outerwear pieces in a man’s wardrobe. Originating from the 1930s, this timeless jacket has evolved from a casual British sportswear staple to a style icon that can be dressed up or down with ease. With its sleek silhouette, ribbed cuffs, and distinctive tartan lining, the Harrington jacket effortlessly blends classic sophistication with modern edge. Whether you’re aiming for a laid-back weekend vibe or a polished look for a night out, the Harrington jacket can do it all.

In this article, we’ll show you how to style your Harrington jacket for both casual and smart looks. We’ll guide you on how to wear this classic piece to suit any occasion, offering tips to elevate your outfits for maximum impact.

1. Casual Look: Effortlessly Stylish and Comfortable

The beauty of the Harrington jacket is its ability to pair well with a variety of casual outfits. Whether you’re going out for a coffee run, meeting friends, or running errands, this jacket provides both comfort and style.

Key Pieces to Pair with a Harrington Jacket for a Casual Look:

T-shirt or Polo Shirt: Keep it simple and comfortable with a classic crew-neck T-shirt or a polo shirt. Choose neutral colors like white, grey, or navy to maintain a balanced, clean look. If you want to add some personality, opt for graphic tees or striped designs.
Slim-fit Jeans or Chinos: A slim pair of jeans or chinos works perfectly with the tailored fit of the Harrington jacket. Opt for dark wash denim or khaki chinos for a polished but laid-back vibe.
Sneakers: A pair of fresh white sneakers or low-top trainers complements the casual style of the jacket while keeping it comfortable and stylish.
Casual Accessories: Add a leather or canvas backpack for a touch of practicality and cool factor. A simple beanie or baseball cap also adds some street-smart style.

Casual Look Example:

Pair a navy Harrington jacket with a white crew-neck T-shirt, dark jeans, and white sneakers. This classic combo looks effortlessly chic for a day out with friends or a weekend trip to the market. Add a casual leather backpack to complete the look, and you’re ready to go.

2. Smart Casual Look: Elevated and Polished

The Harrington jacket can easily transition into a more polished look when styled with smart casual elements. Perfect for dinner dates, casual office days, or smart outings, the key is to balance the jacket’s sporty feel with more refined pieces.

Key Pieces to Pair with a Harrington Jacket for a Smart Casual Look:

Button-Down Shirt or Roll Neck Sweater: A crisp, tailored button-down shirt instantly smartens up your look. Choose a light blue or white shirt for a sophisticated touch. Alternatively, pair the jacket with a roll-neck sweater or a knit polo for a sleek and cozy vibe.
Tailored Trousers: Switch out jeans for a pair of well-fitted chinos or tailored trousers. These will elevate the overall look while maintaining a smart-casual feel. Go for classic colors like grey, navy, or beige for maximum versatility.
Leather Shoes or Brogues: While sneakers can still work for a smart-casual look, a pair of leather loafers or brogues will add a more polished touch. Choose shoes in brown or black leather for a classic look that complements your jacket.
Smart Accessories: A sleek leather belt and a simple wristwatch can further elevate your outfit. Add a scarf or silk pocket square for extra flair, particularly during colder months.

Smart Casual Look Example:

Pair a black Harrington jacket with a light blue button-down shirt, beige chinos, and brown leather loafers. This look is perfect for a night out with friends or a dinner date. The jacket adds a touch of edge while the shirt and shoes keep the look polished and sophisticated.

3. Layering with a Harrington Jacket: Adding Depth to Your Outfit

The Harrington jacket is a great piece to layer with, especially in the transitional seasons of fall and spring. Layering allows you to add more visual interest to your look while providing extra warmth and comfort.

Layering Ideas for Casual and Smart Looks:

Layer Over a Hoodie or Sweatshirt: For a street-style inspired look, layer a Harrington jacket over a hoodie or a sweatshirt. This look pairs well with joggers or skinny jeans and high-top sneakers. The combination of a tailored jacket with a casual hoodie creates an effortless yet fashionable look.
Add a Knit Sweater: A cashmere or wool sweater underneath a Harrington jacket will keep you warm and stylish. A camel-colored sweater pairs well with a navy or black Harrington jacket for a sharp smart-casual style.
Layer with a Turtleneck: A turtleneck sweater paired with a Harrington jacket is a classic combination that adds an extra element of sophistication to your look. Stick to neutral colors like charcoal, beige, or navy for a chic and timeless vibe.

Layered Look Example:

Wear your navy Harrington jacket over a grey turtleneck sweater, with dark jeans and brown leather boots. This combination offers a smart-casual vibe that’s perfect for evenings out, meetings, or weekend gatherings.

4. Accessories to Complete Your Look

No outfit is complete without the right accessories. When styling your Harrington jacket, consider adding a few well-chosen accessories that complement your look and elevate your style.

Key Accessories for Both Casual and Smart Looks:

Scarves: A scarf adds both warmth and style. Opt for cashmere or wool scarves in neutral tones for a sophisticated look, or go for bold patterns to add flair to your casual outfits.
Sunglasses: Sunglasses like aviators or wayfarers can give your look a sleek, sharp edge while providing practical protection from the sun.
Hats: A classic fedora or a beanie adds both style and functionality to your outfit. Stick with darker colors like black or navy for a refined touch or opt for something more casual with a baseball cap.
Belts: A well-fitted leather belt in brown or black is a simple yet effective accessory for a polished appearance.

5. The Best Colors and Fabrics for Your Harrington Jacket

The color and fabric of your Harrington jacket can significantly influence how you style it. While classic colors like navy, black, and khaki are timeless, consider experimenting with other shades or materials for a fresh, modern twist.

Navy: A versatile, timeless color that works for both casual and smart outfits.
Black: Adds an edge to your look, perfect for evening outings or when you want a sleek, refined appearance.
Khaki/Beige: Light and fresh, perfect for spring and summer casual looks.
Olive Green: A stylish alternative to more neutral tones, adding an element of ruggedness to your look.

For a more modern aesthetic, choose a lightweight fabric such as nylon for a sporty feel or tweed for a more sophisticated and textural approach.

Conclusion: A Timeless Jacket for Every Occasion

The Harrington jacket is a classic piece that works for almost any occasion. Its unique ability to be both casual and smart makes it a must-have in every man’s wardrobe. Whether you’re going for a relaxed, casual look with a T-shirt and jeans or dressing it up with a shirt and chinos, the Harrington jacket allows you to express your personal style effortlessly.

By incorporating a Harrington jacket into your wardrobe and experimenting with different layers, fabrics, and accessories, you can create an array of looks that are both fashionable and functional. From weekend outings to smarter events, the Harrington jacket will always be a reliable choice for effortless style.