The blouson jacket has become my lightweight solution to those in-between autumn days - here are the best from £40

As mornings turn crisp but afternoons stay bright, the search for the perfect in-between-season jacket begins. From leather jackets to cropped trench coats, there's a conveyor belt of throw-on-and-go outer layers light enough to solve your wardrobe woes but versatile enough to carry you through unpredictable weather.

Luckily, after some thorough research (also known as shopping), we here at GH have found the essential jacket to see you through those awkward autumn days. The style in question? The blouson.

Somewhere between a bomber and a barn jacket, the blouson is a boxy, cropped style typically finished with a stretchy hem that, when zipped up, creates a softly ballooned silhouette. Incredibly versatile, it pairs brilliantly with key pieces already in your rotation, meaning there's no need to rethink your whole wardrobe.

Prada, Loewe and Chloé all have their own take on the style, but unless you’re ready to part with a hefty sum, it might be worth holding off. The good news? The high street is full of affordable alternatives, some of which are even waterproof: a welcome bonus with drizzly days upon us.

Take Mango, for instance. The Spanish retailer offers an easy to style tan puffed jacket featuring the classic blouson-style stretchy hem. On the other hand, H&M has a brown suede version with an adjustable tie hem, which is great for customising the fit to suit your style.

Elsewhere is Arket, whose checked zip-up jacket features two flap pockets and looks great styled over cardigans or button-ups. Zip it up halfway to create a subtle V-shape at the hemline, reminiscent of a summer style we all know and love: the waistcoat.

If a leather jacket is usually your go-to, consider Uniqlo’s black leather blouson. Pair it with blue straight leg jeans or wide leg trousers, and you’ve got a chic outfit perfect for any event on your social calendar.

Predictably, some blouson styles have already started to sell out. So, if you’re looking for an easy-to-wear (and incredibly stylish) jacket that’ll become your go to for the in-between season, take a look at our edit below.

Shop the best blouson jackets we could find