The barn jacket or field coat is a type of rugged, durable outerwear originally designed for farming or outdoor work.

L.L. Bean launched a version back in 1924 for sportsmen to wear whilst duck hunting. The corduroy collar could be flipped up to protect the neck in windy conditions, with the big, round pockets a perfect size to hold shotgun shells, etc.

Barbour released their version about 40 years ago as an equestrian jacket made of waxed cotton to offer resistance from the wind and rain, with moleskin-lined pockets to keep hands warm and a two-way ring zip pull to fasten without taking off gloves.

J.Crew entered the barn jacket market in 1983 at the height of the Preppy trend, with an oversized jacket in a waxy-finished poplin for a lighter feel than the traditional field coats.

This relatively utilitarian staple has recently seen a stylish resurgence, becoming an “it” piece of outerwear this fall. Here’s a rundown of styling options to take this once-chore coat into statement-making outfits.

Let’s look at the original Adirondack Barn Coat from L.L. Bean. This flannel-lined jacket is a functional fall favorite, perfect with standard jeans and a sweatshirt. But it can also be a cute option when worn with a fair-isle style sweater, plaid skirt, opaque tights, and ankle boots. This styling switch-up lets you take a casual jacket into a workwear setting.

Or try wearing a barn jacket like you would a blazer, particularly with outfits that may be a bit too bulky for a tailored blazer. Oversized sweaters and button-ups layer more easily with the boxier barn-style jacket.

If you’re looking to invest in a barn jacket for years to come, consider Barbour’s Beadnell Quilted Jacket in cabernet, which gives subtle holiday vibes and also speaks to the “burgundy” trend heading into winter. This quilted coat is lined with super-soft fleece for warmth and cozy comfort.

Now, while you certainly can and should wear this jacket for daytime outdoor activity, I would also recommend wearing it for evenings out. I love the idea of pairing this coat with a little or long black dress and heeled knee-high boots to stay warm and look stylish. You can flip the corduroy collar up and snap it closed for a standing collar to get fuller coverage, and the multiple and deep pockets mean you can leave your purse at home. How many times have you wished your nighttime look had better storage? With this sleek jacket, now it can.

Next up, J.Crew Factory’s Quilted Barn Jacket can also be quite cozy, and I’m particularly drawn to its shade of Antique Navy versus the typical khaki and olive green tones. I would definitely pair this with a stripey long-sleeve tee or sweater leaning into a nautical aesthetic. Cropped colorful trousers and loafers can complete this outfit formula to equal an appropriately preppy but unexpected look. However, if you prefer a traditional shade of barn jacket, pick up this version in distressed fatigue with a contrasting brown corduroy collar. Play into the texture of this coat and wear it over a quilted mock-neck pullover with a high-waisted corduroy pant and sneakers.

If you’re in the market for a less traditional but similarly stylish barn jacket, check out Everlane’s Ranch Jacket in denim! Whether in their Deep Atlantic or Midnight Indigo washes, this coat features a cord collar, button closures, check pockets, and two patch front pockets in durable denim. I love the idea of a denim barn coat; it’s so unexpected but surprisingly chic. I’d consider pairing it with a coordinated jean, like the brand’s Way-High Sailor Jean, with a braided belt and henley shirt. I’d also want to pair this denim version with cowboy boots and a flannel shirt dress.

For those of you not as interested in pushing the trends to their limits and are just in the market for a warm, functional, yet still cute coat that won’t break the bank, then check out Costco’s Hang Ten Ladies’ Utility Jacket in either copper or green. With a plush collar, adjustable interior waistline drawcord, and price point, this coat will see you through the season. You can wear it with jeans, cords, trousers, or skirts for no-hassle style. Old Navy also offers quilted and denim barn jackets in olive and a medium wash respectively. Pair either with neutral separates or your coziest loungewear for quick trips to the store. No reason not to look cute, even for a snack and wine run.

Whichever product you try, keep in mind that barn jackets are, by design, boxy, relaxed in fit, often quilted, and lined with fleece or flannel. While the purpose of a barn jacket originated as a functional outdoorsy work garment, its trendy revival is an opportunity to update your outerwear wardrobe for the season with a classic piece that serves both function and form.