Why a shacket is your new workwear essential
Q. What do you recommend wearing in this in-between weather? It’s too warm yet for my winter suits
A. My spell check has gone into overdrive this week questioning my use of the word shacket. According to its strictest fashion translation it’s a casual cross between a shirt and a jacket. However, since the Oxford English Dictionary doesn’t recognise it as of yet (I checked), I have my own workwear interpretation: a smart structured top that can be worn as a jacket, or a light jacket that can be worn with no top underneath.
These hybrids first came to my attention a few years ago when a client wanted a very sleek and modern look for a round of international investor meetings and I stumbled upon the brilliance of Roland Mouret. Yes, he makes a great dress, but he completely excels at separates. The top in question was a fitted peplum jacket with invisible fastenings and long sleeves: incredibly flattering, which I know as I have recommended the same style to many a client since. This iteration still exists, though currently in a slightly different cut, and if you have the budget I highly recommend it.
Tweed jacket, £325, LK Bennett; Peplum jacket, £219, Ted Baker
This hybrid looks as good with a pencil skirt as with wide leg trousers, as an evening top or even with jeans. It really is incredibly versatile, which is probably why most brands catering to the working woman have offerings in their collections. Workwear specialist The Fold has quite a few variations, from houndstooth check to teal or warm pink. As it’s a fitted shape, there’s often a peplum detail, which will create a waist if you don’t have one - or enhance it if you do. If you’re not keen on an hourglass shape, a boxier version, like Tara Jarmon’s blue and red print, will do the trick.
Jacquard blazer, £360, Tara Jarmon; Burlington jacket, £325, The Fold
You may have a shacket lurking in the back of your wardrobe already, largely unworn since you’ve never been sure whether it’s a top or a jacket - but to the benefit of your working wardrobe, it’s both.
