Women's Fall Jackets: Denim vs Sherpa vs Faux Fur

The first cool morning of fall always raises the same question: which jacket do I actually need? A denim jacket, a cozy sherpa coat and a faux fur coat each do a different job. This guide walks through when to wear each one, what to wear it with, and how to choose the right size, so you end up with the jacket you will reach for all season.

Quick guide: which fall jacket is right for you?

• Denim jacket: best for mild early-fall days and layering over dresses, tees and light sweaters.
• Sherpa-lined coat: best for chilly days, errands, school runs and weekends when you want warmth without fuss.
• Faux fur coat: best for evenings out, holiday parties and any time you want your coat to be the outfit.

Most people do well with two of these: one easy everyday layer and one warmer or dressier coat.

The denim jacket: your early-fall workhorse

A denim jacket is the first layer most of us grab when summer ends. It goes with nearly everything, it layers over dresses and sweaters, and it looks better the more you wear it.

Classic or statement?

If you want one jacket that goes with everything, choose a classic. Our Long Sleeve Collared Pocket Denim Jacket has a collar, button front and pockets in a regular fit that layers easily. It comes in Blue and Navy Blue, sizes S to 2XL.

If you already own a basic denim jacket, try something with more personality. Our Distressed Fringe Denim Jacket has fringe trim and dropped shoulders for a relaxed, roomy fit. It comes in twelve shades, from Black and Charcoal to Hot Pink, Lime and Royal Blue, so it can be the color pop in an otherwise simple outfit.

How to wear a denim jacket in fall

• Over a slip dress or maxi dress with ankle boots.
• With a striped tee, black jeans and sneakers.
• Over a thin knit sweater on cooler days. The drop-shoulder style has room for it.

See every style in our women's denim jackets collection.

The sherpa coat: cozy, warm and easy

When the temperature really drops, a sherpa-lined coat is hard to beat. The fuzzy lining feels soft and warm, and these coats usually have a relaxed shape that fits over sweaters and hoodies.

Our Cozy Sherpa Lined Toggle Coat with Hood has a classic toggle closure, a hood and a roomy fit for layering. It comes in colors like Brown, Grey, Black, Emerald Green and Burgundy, with inclusive sizing from S to 5XL.

How to wear a sherpa coat

• With leggings, a long sweater and boots for weekend errands.
• Over jeans and a turtleneck for a classic fall look.
• With a hoodie underneath on the coldest days. Pull the coat's hood over the top if it is windy.

A tip on color: a neutral like Brown, Grey or Black goes with everything, while Emerald Green or Burgundy turns a plain outfit into something you will get compliments on.

The faux fur coat: the statement piece

A faux fur coat is less about practicality and more about how it makes you feel. Throw one over jeans and boots and the whole outfit instantly looks dressed up.

Our White Faux Fur Coat with Belt and Pockets is a long coat with a soft, plush feel and a belt that defines the waist. The loose cut leaves room for a sweater underneath, and the side pockets keep your hands warm. It is made from polyester, with no real fur, in sizes S to 2XL.

How to wear a faux fur coat without looking overdressed

• Dress it down: jeans, a simple knit and ankle boots. The coat does the work.
• Dress it up: a black dress and heels for holiday parties and dinners out.
• Keep the rest simple: a white or cream coat looks especially good over all-black or all-camel outfits.

How to choose the right jacket size

Fit matters more with outerwear than almost anything else, because you will wear it over other clothes. A few tips:

• Think about what goes underneath. If you will wear thick sweaters or hoodies under it, look at the bust measurement and make sure there is room.
• Check the size chart on each product page. Every style is cut differently, so a size M in one jacket may fit differently from another.
• Know your style's fit. Drop-shoulder and loose styles are meant to look roomy. Regular-fit jackets sit closer to the body.
• Measure a jacket you already love. Lay it flat, measure across the chest, double it, and compare with the chart.

Fall jacket FAQ

What jacket should I buy first for fall?

If you only buy one, choose the jacket that matches your weather. In mild climates a denim jacket covers most of the season. If your fall turns cold quickly, a sherpa-lined coat will get more wear.

Is a denim jacket warm enough for fall?

For early fall and mild days, yes, especially with a sweater underneath. Once temperatures drop further, switch to a lined coat like sherpa or faux fur.

Can you wear a faux fur coat every day?

Yes. Faux fur is not just for parties. Wearing it with jeans and a simple sweater is one of the easiest ways to make everyday outfits look polished.

Do sherpa coats run big?

Many sherpa coats have a roomy fit designed for layering, but it varies by style. Always compare your measurements with the size chart on the product page before ordering.

Want to see more options? Browse all of our women's coats and jackets to find your fall favorite.