There are some items that will eternally scream ‘fashion’; avant garde shapes, over the top embellishment, certain It bags. Then there are some things that will always say ‘classic’. The bouclé jacket, in the vein of Chanel, and let’s face it, every chic woman ever, is a style that will always endure. Usually coming in monochrome, or dark hues such as navy or grey, these jackets nod to a heritage look that has verve now. See the new crop of tastemakers who pair theirs with vintage high-waisted Levi’s, on-trend Mary Janes or a stomping boot that plays off the jacket’s feminine look. Is it possible to wear one ironically? The answer is yes. And, surprisingly, you can keep things quite elegant while you do so. Tie a bow in your hair, wear a block heel, finish with a black or white T-shirt, or a navy turtleneck, and fresh-faced makeup. (But do skip the blow-dry: too done.) Jewellery should be small and fuss-free. Traditional? Yes, but it’s a cocktail hour favourite that isn’t set to lose its appeal anytime soon. Shop the best cropped and long-line styles below. 

Main image: Instagram @leiasfez.

Charlee navy tweed jacket, €495, at LK Bennett.

Kemsley jacket, Veronica Beard, €699, at Seagreen.

Bouclé jacket, €39.99, at H&M. 

Double-breasted blazer with top stitching, €39.99, at Zara.

Cotton cashmere blend bouclé blend jacket, €215; www.meandem.com.

Cropped jacket with golden buttons, €149, at Massimo Dutti. 

Cropped bouclé jacket with frayed detail, €305, at Ted Baker.