Cleared for Takeoff

An aviator jacket feels cool the second you put it on. The big fluffy collar keeps your neck warm, the leather look body blocks the wind, and the whole thing pairs with almost anything.

This year the shapes are roomy and slightly cropped, with cream or brown shearling showing at the collar, cuffs and hem.

I split the edit into two groups: brown and tan aviator jackets first, then black aviators.

These are the classic aviators. The dark brown jackets with cream collars and cuffs are the most classic, while the cropped zip styles and the tan suede look jacket feel a little younger.

The longer brown style with a notch collar works over a skirt, the hooded reversible jacket is two looks in one, and the moto shape with an off centre zip adds an edge.

My fitting room test: zip it all the way and raise your arms. The jacket should not ride up past your waist. What I would skip: faux leather that feels stiff or smells strongly of plastic.

Black aviators look a little sleeker and go straight from day to night. The jacket with a cream collar is the boldest contrast, and the style with a buckle at the neck has a cool utility feel.

The cropped jacket with tan trim at the hem and cuffs adds a pop of warmth, and the moto style trimmed in black shearling looks polished.

What I check: the collar. It should sit up on its own and not flop open. What I would skip: thin shearling trim that looks flat after a few wears.

Wear a brown aviator with straight leg jeans, a cream turtleneck and loafers. A black aviator looks great over a slip skirt with knee boots.

Let the collar be the focus. Skip the big scarf and keep your hair pulled back or tucked behind your ears.