Lightweight Autumn Jackets for Ladies Over 40

11 September 2025

If you're looking for an investment piece this season, you can't go wrong with a jacket. These are autumn 2025’s go-to outerwear and we’ve picked some fantastic pieces that are just ideal if you’re over 40: sophisticated, flattering and stylish. They’re all lightweight - because we’re not in winter just yet! - and some can even be reversed for extra versatility.

When it comes to styling and pairing with other pieces, it’s super easy. A tonal blouse works wonders, as does a soft cashmere jumper if you’d like something a little warmer yet still light. Adding jeans gives you an easy win, but these picks go best with darker shades such as the Sasha in Duchess or the Anessa in Duke of York. And let’s not forget shoes: select trainers for a really casual look or loafers for something slightly more elevated.

Our star designer this week is Rails Clothing, a great US brand that knows how to do jackets well. These pieces showcase some of their best work.

Melanie jacket

The Melanie jacket gets 5 stars right from the get-go because it’s the colour of the season: a deep chocolate brown. It features very on-trend leather-effect stitching around all the hems and pockets. The relaxed fit makes this very comfortable to wear while still remaining super smart. Wear it as a cardigan indoors to sharpen your look, or as a jacket outdoors to keep off the chill.

The Melanie pairs well with the OliviaSW loafer in brown, a classically-designed leather shoe with fringe details and a low heel. For a shirt, pick a simple yet elegant piece like the Gladis blouse by Sacrécoeur.

Patty jacket

The oatmeal Patty jacket adds some light to a dreary autumnal day and is a great outdoor jacket. The pale colour is simply gorgeous, and with an oversized Peter Pan collar, two large front pockets, and contrast stitched trim, it comes with a bit of fun too. Layer it over a flattering blouse like the Ali, which is oh-so-chic in its black-and-tan stripe and silk blend.

Such an elegant outfit requires elegant shoes, so Sofie Schnoor is back with their OliviaSW loafer, this time in beautiful black.

Mountain jacket

Another outdoor piece, the Mountain jacket shows that plain doesn’t have to be boring - far from it! A lovely camel colour is bang on trend, and delicate overstitching adds some texture alongside yoke details and structured lines. The boxy fit is a great look for over 40s, as it’s very flattering and can hide all manner of ills. The heavy wool blend, too, is ideal on a transitional piece like this.

The short cut of this jacket means it goes well with a blouse tucked into high-waisted jeans. The Soline blouse looks lovely and its high ruffled collar, buttoned cuffs and loose fit means that it holds its own once you head inside and remove the Mountain jacket. A pair of loafers finish this outfit off nicely.

Jac jacket

The Jac jacket is a herringbone blazer in a camel check that is unbelievably versatile. The country-style jacket can be dressed up for a formal look, but we really love it when it’s paired with more casual pieces that offer a really strong contrast. Think the Contrast polo jumper by Jumper 1234 and a pair of Crew trainers in green.

There are few places you won’t be able to wear this wonderful jacket. At home, in the office, out for dinner, inside, outside… Just pair it with the right pieces and you’re good to go.

Jett jacket

Last, but certainly not least, is an outside-only jacket, so throw it on when you’re running errands, off to visit friends, or on your way to work. The Jett jacket is a real lightweight piece that’s sophisticated enough to suit ladies in their 40s up while still ensuring you don’t feel frumpy. The check pattern is really stylish and the bubble hem, cuffed sleeves and cropped cut all add something special. Adjustable snaps mean you can customise to the most flattering fit.

The trench jacket style of the Jett lends itself nicely to be paired with a relaxed jumper like the Crop crew jumper by Jumper 1234. The cropped jumper is plain, so contrasts nicely to the bold pattern. Pop on those versatile OliviaSW loafers in brown for the final touch.

Melanie jacket

by Rails

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Melanie jacket

Patty jacket

Mountain jacket

Jac jacket

Jett jacket

Melanie jacket

Patty jacket

Mountain jacket

Jac jacket

Jett jacket

Gladis blouse

Ali blouse

Soline blouse

Contrast polo jumper

Crop crew jumper

OliviaSW loafer (brown)

OliviaSW loafer (black)

Crew trainers

Sasha in Duchess

Anessa in Duke of York

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