We’re almost three quarters of the way through fashion month, and in Milan, one standout trend was emerging from the runways. No, it’s not J Lo, who once again broke the internet when she strolled down the Versace catwalk in an updated version of the dress she wore to the 2000 Grammys. (Although, the dress’ vivacious jungle green print is highly relevant in the case of this new trend.) That is, safari jackets. 

A recurring feature since New York, where Coach showed a conker leather version and Boss offered a structured camel with a Judo-style belted waist, the trend then trickled to London, with Burberry championing the silhouette. But in Milan — whose menswear has oft loved a safari jacket — the trend really came to the fore. Dolce & Gabbana showed pale beige safari suits, with oversized jackets and tailored trousers — they were fit for the chicest Tarzan’s Jane, which was perhaps the designers’ inspiration, seen as models stalked down a leopard print carpet runway. 

MaxMara meanwhile — purveyors of the most sophisticated everyday wardrobe — updated the silhouette to feel more like a military officer’s overcoat than a jacket for a jungle expedition; removing the belt and curving the hemline, theirs was a version fit for the office. And then there was Gucci; perhaps naturally, Alessandro Michele showed us how to have fun with it — crafted from a heavy structured wool, with flared cigarette trousers to match; in a rich orange hue, it was paired with bright blue boots. Here was a version for making a statement. 

On the catwalks in Milan, it was clear to see the safari jackets’ easy appeal; from flats to heels and boots, it could be worn with virtually anything. And while the designers were showing their spring/summer 2020 collections, there’s a myriad of offerings available to buy now that will see you right through to spring — simply add a warm jumper underneath when the weather turns properly cold. 

Keep scrolling for our picks of the best. 

1. & Other Stories

With its smooth cotton fabrication, oversized cut and neat belt loops, this & Other Stories belted jacket is a great choice for the office or for smarter, off-duty days. Wear with a black roll neck and tailored trousers. 

Oversized belted jacket, £110, & Other Stories

2. Arket

The light fabrication of this Arket jacket makes it more of a shirt than an outer layer, but this one is great to wear as a top on cooler days — throw a utilitarian trench coat on top; it’s like a new version of the three-piece suit. 

Expedition jacket, £79, Arket

3. Raey

A hybrid between a blazer and a safari jacket, this rusty coloured coat from Raey is an autumn wardrobe’s dream — pair with a chunky woollen sweater and loose tailored trousers for an effortless look. 

Harris tweed blazer, £595, Raey at Matches Fashion

4. Prada

We can dream. This Prada jacket – crafted from recycled marine waste — is the dream safari style. Super utilitarian, in black it almost looks like a safari-biker hybrid and comes with tons of attitude as a result. Best worn with high-waisted denims. 

Belted padded jacket, £1,950, Prada at Matches Fashion

5. Low Classic

Here at Stylist, we’re obsessed with the South Korean brand Low Classic, for its super wearable yet chic everyday wardrobe staples that are investment pieces without costing the earth. We love this belted safari jacket — crafted from wool, it will keep you cosy on cooler days. Wear with white trousers. 

Belted wool jacket, £490, Low Classic at Net-a-Porter