Wardrobe Staples – The Well Tailored Chino Sportcoat

J. Crew Chino Ludlow Sportcoat – $138.00

It’s back.  J. Crew’s Chino Sportcoat has been absent on JCrew.com since the start of fall, and now that spring lines are starting to pop up it’s once again available for purchase.

Cotton chino sportcoats are an incredibly easy way to upgrade your look for minimal cost. You can wear them with anything, just about anywhere, and it’s bizarre how much better you’ll look after you put one on.  You can even wear it now in the dead of winter to warm up your otherwise cold and drab wardrobe, and don’t be afraid of wearing a black sweater underneath.  They’re also widely available via a bunch of different brands.  From left, below:

• Lands’ End Canvas 3-button Chino Blazer – $89.50
• Kenneth Cole 2-button cotton blazer – $169.50
• LL Bean Signature 2-button Twill Blazer – $135.00
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But honestly the J. Crew Ludlow seems to be a step above the rest.  The cut is great, no third button unlike the LEC, and despite it being half a great looking summer suit, the LL Bean Signature has patch pockets.  They’re not too noticeable, but they’re still there.

Compared to other J. Crew sportcoats, even at $138 the Ludlow is relatively inexpensive.  When they do go on sale size selection seems to tank. Waiting another month might save you serious money by going with a GAP or Old Navy option.  But the quality won’t be as good, and those will absolutely need to get tailored.