Picture this: it’s too chilly to just wear a shirt, but too warm for a heavy jacket. Enter the shirt jacket (popularly known nowadays as the “shacket”), the ultimate layering solution for those transitional days. The style is effortless and easy and the comfort is irresistible from spring to summer to autumn. Historically, shirt jackets are modeled after traditional military fatigues, both in style and materials. Fatigue shirts generally had a straight silhouette with a fold-down collar, a simple button-down front closure, and had large front pockets. All of these features made layering easy while providing functionality and full coverage protection. They had the advantage of being breathable as well, made with sturdy cotton and cotton blends.

In 1952, the first OG-107 fatigue uniform was designed for the US Army. This served as one of the military’s longest-running standard service uniforms until the late ‘80s, when it was replaced by the Battle Dress Uniform (BDU). The OG-107 design consisted of a sturdy, 100% cotton sateen shirt and trousers in the standard olive green shade (which is where the OG-107 gets its name), with the shirt featuring a button-down front and patch pockets on the upper chest.

The cotton fabric was later updated to a cotton-polyester blend in 1975 with the creation of the OG-507. The new cotton blend fabric was more durable and more resistant to color fading. This was the most significant change to the uniform design until it was fully replaced by the BDU in 1989.

Since its military days, the fatigue-inspired shirt jacket has stood the test of time and incorporated seamlessly into streetwear style. The use of strong, canvas-like cotton and cotton blend fabrics make fatigue shirts the ideal choice for light layering while offering a casual yet refined silhouette—a win all around.

A household name in both military heritage pieces and outerwear, Alpha Industries has taken on the shirt jacket and refreshed the style for a new generation.

The Fatigue Shirt Jacket is reminiscent of the US Army’s classic fatigue shirts. Since it’s constructed from a cotton-polyester blend, its most direct predecessor is the OG-507. This ensures its ability to withstand many wears and resist color fading for seasons to come. It also features a button-down front, button-down exterior pockets, and a casual, straight-fit silhouette that’s both lowkey and instantly recognizable.

Being a lightweight outer layer, the Fatigue Shirt Jacket is perfect for layering and mixing with a wide range of wardrobe pieces. The shirt jacket can be thrown over a simple tee, crewneck sweaters, or hoodies, making it a wardrobe essential for any season.

Another fashionable option is the P44 Mod Shirt Jacket, which is inspired by the US Marine Corps P44 jacket that was standard issue during World War II and traditionally made from 100% herringbone twill (HBT). The P44 Mod Shirt Jacket is made of quality cotton and features two exterior chest entry pockets, which have the advantage of preserving the shirt’s classically clean silhouette.

If your style leans toward more direct military inspo and references, the Deco Fatigue Shirt Jacket is for you. It’s decorated with Alpha-branded patches and grosgrain detailing and captures all the specs of the OG-107 fatigue shirt it’s inspired by. Throw this on over a simple tee and pants combo to add some visual interest while maintaining a cool, laid-back profile.

Got too much stuff? Carry it all in the Jungle Fatigue Shirt Jacket. With four large cargo pockets, it’s an essential jacket for carrying all your essentials. It features a hidden button closure for a clean, retro look, and comes in two jungle-inspired colorways: desert camo and forest green.

No matter which variation you choose, the shirt jacket is a true one-size-fits all outerwear piece. It’s a style that suits most occasions and features a comfortable silhouette that’s easily pulled on and off and worn all day. Above all, you’ll live in this shirt jacket through the mid-range temperatures of spring, summer, and fall, guaranteeing its longevity in your wardrobe. In short, if you don’t own a shacket, you’re for sure missing out.