Not denim, not leather, Anita Rani gives a masterclass in how to wear spring's biggest jacket trend

As the temperatures gradually creep up, I've noticed a steady stream of sporty jackets filling my feed - it started with the new viral polka dot adidas Firebird collection that sells out each time new deliveries drop, and now it's hard to ignore this rapidly growing spring/summer fashion trend 2026, that's giving the athleisure look a contemporary rebrand.

Not only is this style of jacket super comfortable, but it's flattering too, and thanks to its fast-growing popularity, it's a very easy way to update your look. And it's a great replacement for classic denim jackets in your spring capsule wardrobe. Celebrities have naturally been quick to jump on board with the silhouette too, with everyone from Alexa Chung and Jessica Alba to Anita Rani adding a sporty jacket to their outfits.

One of the best spring jackets to wear with jeans, don't shy away from this 90s trend nostalgia. And if you're fretting because you did it the first time around, don't. This time we're not wearing as part of a trackpant co-ord, it's got a far more grown-up twist, and is as practical as it is stylish. A windbreaker jacket - as they are also known - can be slipped underneath your best trench coat or even incorporated into your favourite jeans and a blazer outfit for a sporty take on a smart casual outfit favourite.

Sporty to smart

Thanks to the shorter length of most technical jackets, the waist-skimming hem means that this style works with a variety of pieces already in your wardrobe. Wondering how to style a satin slip skirt for spring? Anita Rani used hers to add a pop of colour (and an added layer of warmth) to her monochrome outfit with a bright green adidas jacket, underneath a tailored blazer, finished with a polka dot skirt. The smart casual outfit was a masterclass in how to wear athleisure in 2026, giving the whole trend a grown-up spin.

Shop the look

A funnel neck technical jacket is also a great way to give your best wide-leg jeans a fresh look for the season ahead. Not only will the windbreaker style highlight your waist, but the contrast of fabrics adds a contemporary twist to even the simplest of outfits.

Whether you prefer loose-fitting blouson styles a la Alexa Chung and Jessica Alba or fitted cuts that you can slide under your blazer like Anita Rani's, there's a sporty jacket for every taste right now. This versatile design is the perfect lightweight layer for warm spring days. It will immediately offer an on-trend contemporary feel to every outfit, from your most comfortable jeans to midi dresses.

The key to this trend is to avoid wearing it with other sporty items, as this is what keeps the look contemporary. Apart from trainers, you want to pair your sporty jacket with slightly more structured styles, eg. jeans, tailored trousers, or slip skirts, so that you look like you're going places rather than the gym.

Swap leggings for high-waisted wide-leg jeans, a crisp shirt and adidas Sambas for a laid-back look or juxtapose the sporty cut with a slinky slip skirt or bias-cut dress and kitten heels for a touch of Nineties nostalgia that feels bang up to date for your next date night outfit.

Sporty jackets? It's a case of ready, steady, go!