Last time we talked about interesting ways to start layering up for fall.  No one really double-layers their cardigan, dons a turtle neck, or wears a grandpa blazer, so I suggested these tips to try and add some pop to your fall/winter wardrobe.  But this next article is going to take a page from the ladies.  Its time that more guys start wearing the Basic Green Jacket.

Don’t act like you don’t know what the Basic Green Jacket is.  You’ve seen girls from all walks of life wear one, whether its a casual Cali girl or a NYC fashionista.  There’s nothing wrong with wearing a basic piece, since its easy to be built on with other pieces from your wardrobe.   Even though these women are wearing a similar jacket, they each wear different pieces under it to let their personality show.

Now lets make one thing clear:  the Basic Green Jacket isn’t a specific type of jacket.  It usually takes the form of a Fishtail Parka, Utility Jacket, or a military jacket, with varying lengths.  Some have fur hoods, some are made of waxed cotton (Barbor jacket) and others can have a belt!  Either way, it’s going to be some shade of military/olive green. And it’s going to look fantastic.  Just check out some ways our guys have been wearing their Basic Green Jackets.

1. Tim, With the Fishtail Parka 

Tim’s showing us a great way to pull off the fishtail variant of the BGJ.  His is about 3/4 length, meaning it ends a little above the knee, and is best worn with a “high-low” look.  This means that the top is loose and long while the bottom very fitted and skinny.   He pairs his parky with a boat-collar sweater, which adds to the “loose look”, and keeps the bottom half tight with some indigo jeans cuffed with Clark Desert Boots.

Its an overall very simple look and very repeatable.  I’d recommend this with sweaters or even long sleeve Tees, if it doesn’t get too cold where you live.

2.  Raj, With the Utility Jacket  

The utility jacket (or military jacket) is characterized with a shorter length and usually has bellowed pockets.  Raj wears his with a preppy ensemble:  hemmed khakis, monkstraps, and a plaid shirt.  if you want to go the extra mile, you can definitely wear this with a tie. It’s pretty sprezz and will definitely help you stand out from the usual casual fare that don this jacket.

3.  Ethan, With the Barbour Jacket 

I’m just kidding, this isn’t a barbour jacket.  A real barbour jacket is made from shiny, texturized waxed-cotton with brown corduroy collar;  my jacket has the latter.  I bought this one at H&M and it gets the job done!  Its made of a wool blend, giving it some texture, patch pockets (including an internal pocket) and even has surgeon cuffs (functional sleeve buttons).  It’s typically boxy, so just like Tim’s parka, you could attempt to wear it with a high-low style.

Personally, I gave my outfit an “umph” by putting my jacket over a shawl collared sweater.  The roominess of the sweater helps make the jacket more fitted and kept me warm all night.  If you’re not feeling indigo jeans, black jeans also go with everything; you can also try some grey wool pants.  Do not wear your BGJ with khakis, you’ll end up looking like a dad and not in the good way.  Keep the pants dark!

4. Ben, With the Camo Jacket

Is the green too boring for you?  Change it up with some camo! It’s still got the same earth tone theme going on, but it’s got a pattern and is definitely harder to rock.  Kudos to Ben here, who keeps the rest of his ensemble plain to give all the emphasis to the jacket.

On a side note, just check out Ben’s details.  I’m definitely going to be featuring him more on this blog!

  Where can I find it?  

Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to get your very own Basic Green Jacket.  However, quality will depend on how much you’re willing to spend. You can go try H&M, jump up high to J. Crew, or even go all out and get the real thing at a department store. Which ever one you get, just make sure it’s comfortable and fits right.  I prefer a more fitted jacket, which is why I prefer the barbour (or similar variants) over the parka, but its all up to you!

I hope you enjoyed this feature! Now get crackin’ on those fall fashions!

Always a pleasure,

Ethan W.

Street x Sprezza

*Girl pictures are not owned by Street x Sprezza

Photography by Ethan W. and Jon H.