3 min read’Tis the season for stashing away heavy coats and jackets, but before you put them all away, there’s a sporty spring jacket trend worth trying on for size. Style insiders are taking inspiration directly from recent runways and throwing on a surprisingly functional layer: the windbreaker. Not only is this recently resurrected piece one of the biggest outerwear trends of the season, but it’s also more versatile than you think.
Runways from major fashion houses blurred the lines between outerwear and activewear this season: Prada showcased preppy blazers and button-downs alongside waterproof jackets and tactical silhouettes, while Loewe played with volume by layering windbreakers in a rainbow of colors. Even Stella McCartney and Staud juxtaposed the relaxed shape with tailored trousers and slip skirts.
It’s simple to style this athletic staple in your own wardrobe. The malleable silhouette makes it easy to cinch with trousers, add volume over a slip skirt, and incorporate functional weather protection over your go-to jeans and tee. Shop our favorite ways to wear the look below.
With Loungewear
Whether you’re running errands or picking up a post-workout coffee, a neutral windbreaker can make your comfiest clothes feel intentionally styled. We like this functional pick from Columbia, which has a relaxed fit, a cinchable hem, and convenient zippered pockets.
Columbia AmazeStretchJacket
LDMA The Christy Rib Long Bra Top
Lululemon Groove Nulu High-Rise Flared Pant
Machete Italian Acetate French Hair Pin
With Wardrobe Staples
Stick with what you know. Your go-to denim and a comfy baby tee make the perfect base layer for trying out any of the season’s latest trends—and when you’re working with a bold-colored windbreaker, the same rings true. Throw on a pair of retro sneakers and skinny sunglasses to complete the look.
Adidas Blocked Washed Tracktop
Madewell The Perfect Crewneck Tee
Levi’s Ribcage Wide Leg Jeans
With Slip Skirts
Staud spring/summer 2026
Layering is key when it comes to making a windbreaker wearable with almost anything. Start with an oversized Oxford shirt and your staple satin skirt, then define the waist with a cropped windbreaker on top. While you can certainly play around with color, we like these soothing blue hues that repeat from head to toe.
Polo Ralph Lauren Long Sleeve Button Front Shirt
Staud Sonoma Lace-Trim Silk Midi-Skirt
Coach
Sculpted C Platform Thong Sandal
With Workwear
Stella McCartney fall/winter 2026
For an office-ready look that’s no less chic than it is functional, try pairing sporty outerwear with your go-to trousers. The relaxed fit will feel far more comfortable than a stuffy blazer without sacrificing shape. And its sleek material juxtaposes nicely against more finicky materials like the suede of your shoulder bag or your cashmere sweater.
Tory Burch Colorblock Nylon Jacket
Lilysilk Brushed Cashmere Short-Sleeve Sweater
Now 15% Off
Aritzia
The Effortless Pant
Sam Edelman Loraine Loafer
With Chartreuse
If you’re all about patterns, this polka-dot pick is worth adding to your outerwear rotation. Lean into spring’s biggest trends by styling it with comfy capris and chartreuse accessories, then dress things up with a pair of kitten heels—or slip into comfy sneakers instead for a more laid-back look.
ASTR the Label Collins Polka Dot Bomber Jacket
Alo Yoga Alosoft High-Waist Iconic 90’s Capri
Now 31% Off
Jeffrey Campbell Pesky Leather Shoulder Bag
UNOde50
Small Heart Stud Earrings
With Riding Boots
You’ll be able to get even more wear out of your trusty autumn boots by leaning into flowing silhouettes this spring. (Think asymmetric slip skirts and dresses layered with structured jackets.) A breezy windbreaker with an on-trend funnel-neck detail adds a sporty touch that’s undeniably chic.
& Other Stories Stand-Collar Drawstring Jacket
Favorite Daughter Ex-Boyfriend Oversize Button-Up
Mango
Lace Trim Satin Skirt
Frye Viv Knee High Riding Boot
B-Low the Belt
Inez Studded Suede Hobo
With sheer tights and stilettos
Hailey Bieber’s look at Saint Laurent’s spring/summer 2026 runway show in Milan proves just how far this trend can stretch. Slip into a pair of sheer tights and a silky set of shorts for a sultry evening look that’s celeb-approved.
Lioness
Shoreline Windbreaker
Dôen Iona Lace Trim Shorts
Hue Sheer Control Top Tights
Tory Burch T Monogram Shoulder Bag
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