Jackets: Fall Feels Much Better in These

This fall, jackets are taking shape, literally. Cropped, caped, ballooned and oversized, the season's silhouettes make outerwear the interesting part of the outfit. Let the shape do the work over a lightweight knit or plain tee, or add denim and a subtly flared pant for a little '70s energy. The fabrics may be familiar, but the proportions aren't. Same fall favorites. Whole new shape.

Trench coats, workwear jackets, oversized shirt jackets: we're borrowing from the boys and making it personal. Layer a relaxed zip-up jacket over a cable-knit cardigan and loose denim, then add cowboy boots. Or take a classic trench coat in the opposite direction, over a lace-trimmed dress with loafers and crisp white socks. A little borrowed. A lot your own.

Sometimes it's all about the neckline. Funnel-neck jackets frame the face and give even the simplest fall outfit a little more shape. Fur-trimmed collars do the same with a softer, plusher point of view. Pair one with a ribbed tank, relaxed pants and retro sneakers to keep things sporty. Or add lace and a leather ankle boot for a softer contrast. The Imara Jacket makes the case particularly well: one great collar, outfit handled.

If there's one fall jacket that knows how to get around, it's the blazer. Wear one with wide-leg jeans and not much else. Add a button-down and tailored trousers for work. Later, swap in a lace cami, flared pants and a strappy heel. Same blazer. Very different plans. That's the beauty of it: a great blazer doesn't need a special occasion, or even much of a plan.

Cropped or oversized. Leather or trench. Structured or so relaxed it's practically asleep. Fall is jacket season. Wear yours over the dress. Add it to the jeans. Try the shape you weren't sure about. The best fall jackets don't just finish the outfit, they make you want to get dressed. Because without the jacket, it's really just weather.