A lightweight jacket in a bright shade lifts neutral outfits instantly. Anine Bing's red Leon bomber, the adidas Originals and Wales Bonner pink track jacket, Skims' blue cropped track jacket made with Nike and Loewe's yellow layered hooded shell jacket each make a strong start.

The easiest way to wear a bright jacket is over jeans and a white tee. Moncler's pink Pointu hooded jacket works with Guest in Residence's light denim Weekender jeans and Leset's white pointelle T-shirt. Maison Margiela's white Replica sneakers keep it relaxed.

A sporty jacket over a long skirt is an unexpected mix that really works. Jil Sander's red shell jacket with Rabanne's brown floral-jacquard maxi skirt is the bold version. Bottega Veneta's pink Rosa ballet flats and Gucci's black Paparazzo shoulder bag add a softer, ladylike touch.

Swap a blazer for a track jacket and tailoring feels new again. Gucci's yellow satin-jacquard track jacket over Róhe's white poplin shirt and Dolce & Gabbana's black pleated wool trousers is sharp but playful. Manolo Blahnik's tan tasselled Bucky loafers finish it.

Sporty accessories pull the look together. Polo Ralph Lauren's sky blue cap and On's pink Cloudsoma sneakers pick up the colours of the jackets above. Chloé's brown aviator sunglasses and Rick Owens' black leather crossbody wallet keep your hands free.

Windbreakers and track jackets are an easy way to bring colour into fall, and they are light enough to layer. If you take one thing away, let it be to treat the jacket as the statement and keep everything else neutral. They look best against a contrast, such as a long skirt or crisp tailoring, rather than head-to-toe sportswear. Pink, red and yellow are the most cheerful choices, but light blue is easier to mix. We would skip matching track pants unless you want a full tracksuit look. On cold days, wear one under a longer wool coat so a flash of colour shows at the collar.