Cropped jackets are back. Not only do they offer lightweight coverage between seasons (making them ideal for transitional wardrobes), but they also add edginess as well as proportion to any look — and fashion experts agree.
Throughout the past month, Google Trends has seen about 69,000 cropped jackets-related searches, including inquiries related to jackets made from suede, quilt and fur. Shoppers are even seeking cropped trench coats, as that particular style has seen a 171% search spike throughout the past year.
However, wearing a cropped jacket requires a bit of styling knowledge. We talked to stylists for their fit recommendations and advice on how to better pair this fashion essential.
How to style a cropped jacket | Features to look for | Expert-recommended cropped jackets | Editor-approved cropped jackets | How we chose | Meet the experts
Best everyday cropped jacket$undefined$54.90
How to style a cropped jacket
Since the purpose of a cropped jacket is to enhance the waistline, on-air stylist Jana Meister recommends styling it with high-rise pants or jeans. “You don’t want to wear a longer or flowy shirt because the look will become too bulky and you will lose the emphasis on your waistline,” she says.
"The key is balance. Let the cropped length highlight your waistline and play with proportions."
When it comes to tops, Meister continues, "Cropped jackets are ideal for layering without feeling bulky and can be super chic paired with a fitted top or bodysuit underneath."
Stylist Kim Appelt also suggests pairing a cropped jacket with a sleek turtleneck or a delicate silk tank for contrast. "The key is balance. Let the cropped length highlight your waistline and play with proportions."
Cropped jacket features to look for
"When shopping for a denim or cropped jacket, think about the details. Look for a structured yet soft fabric that moves with you — a bit of a stretch is always nice," suggests Appelt.
Also, keep an eye on the hemline and watch out how the jacket sits on your waist. "It should be flattering and not boxy. And don't forget about the pockets — functional and stylish is always the goal," adds Appelt.
As an extra styling tip, Appelt says to stay away from pockets on the chest area if you have a larger bust as this can add more volume to your figure.
Cropped jackets recommended by experts
Ideal for layering: Maurices Goldie Blues Oversized Crop Jean Jacket
- Feels soft
- Offers a great fit
- Limited wash options
Size: XXS-4X | Color: 1 | Material: Cotton, spandex
Meister recommends an oversized cropped jacket for fall in case you want to wear a slightly heavier top underneath. "They have a more streetwear or boyfriend fit which is great for the fall season as well."
This one is great for layering and adds a more relaxed look to your outfit. Plus, it has unfinished details for a more edgy look.
Be my plus one: Maurices Plus Size Goldie Blues Oversized Crop Jean Jacket
- Great length
- Available in regular sizes
- Limited wash options
Size: 0X-4X | Color: 1 | Material: Cotton, spandex
If you need a longer cropped jacket, Meister recommends this style. It's available in standard as well as plus sizes, and it features a distressed finish for a variety of looks.
I [Espinal] own a jacket from Maurices in a darker wash and I love the quality. It usually feels more lightweight than other more rigid materials. Additionally, the fit is very relaxed and I can button it up without complication.
Not far from denim: By Anthropologie Cropped Washed Denim Jacket
- Feels lightweight
- Available in standard and plus
- Not a denim material
Size: XXS-3X | Color: 2 | Material: 100% lyocell
For a more sophisticated look, Meister recommends this blazer-inspired jacket from Anthropologie. "Add a blazer cut jacket to your fall wardrobe that could be styled with dressy pants or skirts for the office," says Meister.
While the material is not denim, it adds a softer look to more elegant pieces. Also, it's made from a lighter fabric to be easily worn in warmer climates.
Details matter: J.Crew Sherpa Lady Jacket
- Available in petite sizes
- Only one color available
Size: 00-24 | Color: 1 | Material: 100% polyester
"I also love to shop for jackets with embellishments like buttons or zippers for more of a statement jacket for my fall wardrobe," says Meister.
This one is a cozier version than a denim jacket since it's made from polyester sherpa. It features tortoise-inspired buttons as well as a black binding across the edges and neck for an avant-garde finish.
A fitted look: White House Black Market
- Snug fit
- Doesn't gap in the back
- Runs small
Size: 00-18 | Color: 1 | Material: 60% cotton, 28% polyester, 9% viscose, 3% spandex
Meister recommends this design if you prefer more of a fitted look. It'll help highlight the waistline thanks to its more defined cut and snug fit. While this jacket won't work well with sweaters, it would add a layer of elegance to blouses and T-shirts. It fits well according to shoppers and goes well with most bottoms, as it has a longer length.
Cropped jackets recommended by editors
For the fringe: Forever 21 Cropped Fringe Trucker Jacket
- Soft inner lining
- Shoulder pads add structure
- Outer material is very warm
Size: XS-XL | Color: 1 | Material: Polyester, polyurethane
This cropped jacket has quickly become a go-to for editor Amanda Fama. She says, "As someone who’s a huge fan of both fringe and leather, this jacket is one of my new favorites."
Fama continues, "The faux-leather design has a smooth polyester lining, and the overall structure is super soft. The jacket is flimsy, but in a good way; it doesn’t loose its shape while you wear it. I’m excited to pair this with high-waisted jeans and boots this fall."
Editor favorite: American Eagle Super Cropped Denim Jacket
- Great crop length
- Good quality
- Bust area can be tight
Size: XXS-XL | Color: 2 | Material: 90% cotton, 10% recycled cotton
Deputy editorial director Alexandra Deabler has a similar jacket that is currently sold out online, but this is a similar one.
“I’ve had my cropped denim jacket for about a decade at this point. I love it. This is an updated version to mine. I like that it has stretch, since mine is rigid and sometimes it’s a little tight when trying to wear over a long-sleeve bulkier shirt. But I like the light wash — I think it goes with everything — and I like the crop, which is perfect with a dress, skirt or chinos,” says Deabler.
A classic style: Abercrombie & Fitch Cropped Denim Trucker Jacket
- Great fabric
- Boxy fit
- Tends to run large
Size: XXS-XL | Color: 3 | Material: 78% cotton, 22% lyocell
You can never go wrong with a classic trucker silhouette. This one is on my [Espinal] wish list for its traditional button placement and light wash. The no-frills look goes well with most tops and bottoms, adding a casual air of comfortability and practicality. It comes in different washes and is slightly oversized for a laidback fit, according to shoppers.
Lightweight and relaxed: Z Supply All Day Cropped Washed Jacket
- Spacious front pockets
- Feels lightweight
- Hem is longer at back
Size: XS-L | Color: 1 | Material: 62% cotton, 36% Tencel, 2% spandex
I [Espinal] just received this cropped jacket and loved it. Unlike traditional denim jackets, this one has a lightweight feel and relaxed fit without feeling overwhelming. I can easily pair it with high-waisted jeans, skirts and dresses for a cutting-edge look. Also, the hue adds a warmer tone to lighter neutrals such as beige, cream and ivory.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to Meister, many body shapes can benefit from wearing a cropped jacket. "Wearing a cropped jacket correctly will add emphasis to your waistline and create the illusion of a slimmer waist," she adds.
But it all depends on the cut and material type you opt for. Appelt says rectangle, hourglass and pear body shapes can wear cropped jackets as these draw attention to the waist, "making them perfect for accentuating curves or creating the illusion of a defined waist." For the apple body type, Appelt recommends wearing a longer shirt that extends past the crop silhouette.
Meister and Appelt agree that cropped jackets are best paired with high-waisted pants or any high-waisted bottoms. "Think high-waisted jeans, tailored trousers, fitted skirts or a longer flowing skirt. The higher waistline complements the cropped length, creating a balanced silhouette and the illusion of long legs," says Appelt.
"Fit and styling are key when making this style of jacket work for your body. If you have a longer torso, look for a cropped jacket that is a little longer so that the hem will land in a more flattering place on your body's proportions," says Meister.
"Make sure that the hem of the jacket hits right at or above your waist for the most flattering fit," adds Meister.
You also want to watch out for your shoulders. Appelt says a jacket should sit perfectly at the edge without any dropping or tightness. Also, "the hem should hit right at your natural waist or just below," says Appelt. Basically, finding the right fit for a jacket is like finding the right fit for jeans.
How we chose
We asked stylists for their cropped jacket recommendations and which brands offer the best fit. Shop TODAY editors also tried different styles while considering availability and size inclusivity. I [Espinal] also considered styles with a better price point and material composition.
Meet the experts
- Jana Meister is an on-air stylist based in Kansas City with over 10 years of experience.
- Kim Appelt is a personal and celebrity stylist and author of the Amazon bestselling book “Style for Everybody,” which focuses on creating a classic and timeless wardrobe for individuals based on their body, style and life.
