AS the famous Miss Congeniality quote goes, this particular time of year is ‘not too hot, not too cold. All you need is a light jacket’.
And as we find ourselves officially in light jacket season, there’s one which is selling out across the board.
The jacket in question? The funnel neck jacket. You’ll know the one we mean, it’s been seen on everyone from Bella Hadid to Meghan Markle and Victoria Beckham.
Burberry debuted a leather funnel neck at its show this year, with the coveted jacket giving the fashion house’s longtime staple, the trench coat, a run for its money.
The funnel neck is having a serious moment, with high street chains Marks and Spencer (if you were lucky to get your hands on that sell out viral red windbreaker then good for you) and Uniqlo leading the pack.
It first picked up pace last year, when the Zara faux leather funnel neck went viral.
The trend has snowballed this spring, with John Lewis reporting searches for funnel necks are up 1000% from last year, and Marks and Spencer recently reporting a surge in sales of a chic chocolate brown cotton rich funnel neck.
As the funnel neck wins over celebrities and fashion influencers alike, its appeal is clear: boxy, flattering with trousers or a dress or skirt, and the high neck can be zipped or not.
First seen in Phoebe Philo’s 2023 debut for her eponymous brand, it’s a trend that works for everyone, which is a relief because at 42, I’m reluctant to jump on viral trends.
Do I need to dress like an influencer on the nursery pick up? That said, as the former assistant editor of a fashion magazine, I like to feel put together.
When I bought a funnel neck jacket ten days ago, I loved it straight away. It goes with everything I own – dresses, trousers and skirts – and has fast become my most-worn piece.
It also hides some of the things I don’t like showing off: my waist line (which two babies have not been kind to) is cinched in by the jacket’s drawstring, and my double chin can be neatly covered by the neckline.
I love a chore or denim jacket, but those can feel quite everyday – the funnel neck makes me feel like I’m reclaiming my style in my forties.
I know it’ll see me through summers in the pub garden, travelling or an evening outing.
It’s versatile enough for both the gym and office and won’t be going out of style anytime soon: it’s safe to say the funnel neck is here for many years to come.
I went for a Cos jacket for its sporty look which elevates the everyday. It’s even wind and showerproof.
Cos is a higher end brand, but I found mine on Vinted for a third of the price.
Three high street picks under £50
This H&M zebra print jacket, £44.99, is a linen blend so perfect for the summer.
Pair with a midi-skirt in a bright pop of colour, silver hoops and a basket bag.
Butter yellow for spring summer? Yes please.
This Next cotton utility jacket, £48, (also in red and khaki) is lightweight and the colour immediately makes you feel happy!
A simple, structured and lightweight option from Marks and Spencer, £40, this funnel neck will last you for seasons.
Water repellent for unpredictable British weather, it elevates a commute or school run.
