Instagram’s Favourite Jackets: Styles Everyone’s Wearing
Few fashion items possess the enduring allure and versatility of a jacket. From its origins as a practical garment for aviators and motorcyclists to its rise as a global fashion icon, the jacket continues to redefine itself across generations. Its adaptability of blending effortlessly with styles ranging from rugged streetwear to polished high fashion cements its place as a wardrobe essential.
In today’s digitally-driven world, social media has become the ultimate barometer of what’s trending. Platforms like Instagram, with its visual storytelling and global reach, provide insight into the popularity of specific styles through hashtags. Jackets, with their blend of timeless appeal and modern reinvention, have taken center stage in this dynamic landscape.
This study, conducted by CLB, delves into Instagram hashtag data to uncover the most popular jacket styles. The analysis not only highlights the preferences of millions of users but also aligns with broader trends in the jackets industry, which is projected to reach 53.25 billion in 2025, while the outdoor jacket industry is supposed to grow at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2025 to 2033. From the universally adored bomber jacket to rising stars like the Shacket, this study paints a vivid picture of what’s resonating with fashion enthusiasts around the globe.
1. Bomber Jacket
Leading the pack with more than double the engagement of its closest competitor, the bomber jacket’s dominance in social media reflects its unmatched popularity and versatility in contemporary fashion. Originally engineered for military pilots during World War II, the bomber jacket has undergone a remarkable evolution to become today’s most versatile garment. Its distinctive features include a knit collar, cuffs, and waistband, which create the signature gathered look that defines the style. The jacket’s ability to pair equally well with everything from casual denim to formal trousers has cemented its position as a wardrobe essential.
Hashtag: #bomberjacket
Posts: 2.5M
2. Trench Coat
Securing a strong second place, the trench coat’s impressive engagement showcases the enduring appeal of classic silhouettes. Distinguished by its double-breasted front, wide lapels, and belted waist, this piece combines dramatic presence with practical design. The traditional elements, the storm flaps, epaulettes, and wrist buckles that take on new life, creating a powerful fusion of heritage and innovation. Modern versions often feature variations in length, from classic knee-length to contemporary mid-thigh cuts. Its adaptability allows for both power dressing and casual sophistication.
Hashtag: #trenchcoat
Posts: 1.6M
3. Varsity Jacket
Claiming third position with substantial engagement, the varsity jacket exemplifies the successful elevation of athletic wear to luxury status. Evolving from its athletic origins as team award wear, the varsity jacket represents the perfect fusion of collegiate heritage and contemporary street style. The distinctive body creates its signature look, while ribbed collar, cuffs, and waistband maintain athletic authenticity. Modern versions often feature premium details like quilted linings, custom patches, and varied pocket configurations. The style has been embraced by luxury fashion houses, who often incorporate high-end hardware, contrast stitching, and innovative leather treatments.
Hashtag: #varsityjacket
Posts: 850K
4. Puffer Jacket
Ranking fourth, this style demonstrates how technical innovation can be successfully merged with luxury materials. The puffer jacket represents an innovative fusion of technical outerwear and modern styles. Its distinctive quilted construction, typically featuring chevron or diamond patterns, creates a characteristic puffy appearance while providing excellent insulation. Modern interpretations often incorporate sophisticated elements like hidden zip pockets, removable hoods, and adjustable waist systems.
Hashtag: #pufferjacket
Posts: 753K
5. Biker Jacket
Maintaining fifth position, the biker jacket proves that authentic rebel style remains a powerful force in fashion. The quintessential rebel statement piece, the biker jacket continues to define edgy sophistication. Its archetypal design features include an asymmetric zipper, wide notched lapels, and strategic hardware placement. Traditional elements like epaulettes, belt loops, and zippered cuffs serve both functional and aesthetic purposes.
Hashtag: #bikerjacket
Posts: 554K
6. Shacket
At sixth place, the Shacket demonstrates how innovative hybrid designs can capture significant market attention. The shirt-jacket hybrid represents one of fashion’s most successful innovations in recent times. The unique construction elevates this casual silhouette. Modern interpretations often feature refined details like French seams, hidden interior pockets, and sophisticated button plackets. The style’s versatility shines in its ability to function as both a jacket and a heavy overshirt.
Hashtag: #shacket
Posts: 202K
7. Flight Jacket
Seventh position reflects the enduring appeal of authentic aviation inspired design. The flight jacket embodies a rich aviation heritage transformed for modern wear. Distinguished from the bomber by its more structured design, it typically features a stand collar, front zip closure, and angled chest pockets, elements derived from original military specifications. Contemporary versions often incorporate technical updates like climate-control linings, reinforced shoulders, and specialized interior pockets. Design variations might include shearling collars, articulated sleeves, and utility pockets, all while maintaining the jacket’s characteristic slim fit and protective functionality.
Hashtag: #flightjacket
Posts: 177K
8. Peacoat
Eighth place showcases the successful adaptation of maritime classics to contemporary fashion. The peacoat transforms naval tradition into contemporary luxury. Its defining double-breasted front, broad lapels, and length hitting at mid-thigh create a commanding silhouette. Traditional maritime elements like oversized buttons, convertible collar, and slash pockets take on new sophistication. Modern interpretations often feature updated details such as interior breast pockets, back vents for mobility, and refined shoulder construction. The style particularly excels in structured leathers that maintain the coat’s architectural shape while adding a luxurious sheen to its military heritage.
Hashtag: #peacoat
Posts: 152K
9. Moto Jacket
Ninth position demonstrates the continuing evolution of motorcycle-inspired fashion. The moto jacket offers a refined interpretation of motorcycle-inspired design, distinct from its biker jacket cousin. Its streamlined silhouette typically features minimal hardware, mandarin or band collars, and clean linear quilting. Modern versions incorporate technical elements like ventilation zippers, armor padding points, and ergonomic sleeve construction. The style demands high-performance fabric that balances protection with flexibility, often featuring strategic panel placement for optimal movement. Design innovations include hidden pockets, reflective details, and sophisticated ventilation systems.
Hashtag: #motojacket
Posts: 130K
10. Leather Vest
Breaking into the top ten, the vest proves its versatility in modern wardrobes. The leather vest serves as both a foundational layering piece and a bold statement garment. Its sleeveless design highlights the premium nature of the leather construction, with clean-cut armholes and precise shoulder shaping being crucial elements. Modern interpretations range from minimalist designs with hidden closures to elaborate versions featuring multiple pockets and adjustable side tabs. The style excels in both lightweight leathers for layering and heavyweight materials for statement wear. Contemporary innovations include asymmetric closures, elongated cuts, and sophisticated backing materials.
Hashtag: #leathervest
Posts: 110K
“Jackets remain a cornerstone of the fashion industry, not just for their timeless appeal but for their ability to evolve with consumer trends,” says Mahendra Singh, CEO of CLB. “Social media platforms like Instagram allow brands to engage directly with a global audience, influencing preferences and shaping styles. This study highlights the enduring relevance of classics like bomber jackets, while innovative designs like the Shacket reflect the industry’s embrace of hybrid styles.”
This comprehensive analysis of jacket styles on Instagram reveals several significant trends in contemporary fashion. The dominance of the bomber jacket, with 2.5 million posts, signals a clear preference for versatile pieces that bridge casual and luxury wear.
Traditional styles like the biker jacket, while still significant, have been overtaken by more adaptable designs that reflect modern lifestyle needs.
The strong showing of hybrid designs like the Shacket and innovative interpretations of classics like the trench coat indicates a market that values both innovation and heritage. The presence of specialized styles in the top 10, from trench coats to peacoats, demonstrates the diverse ways jackets continue to be reimagined for contemporary wardrobes.