Herringbone Jackets for Men

Herringbone is the pattern that looks like a pattern up close and reads like a textured solid from a distance — which is exactly what makes it one of the most versatile weaves for a jacket. The V-shaped zigzag adds visual depth and character without the commitment of checks or stripes, making a herringbone jacket easy to combine with almost anything in your wardrobe. The problem off the rack is that herringbone jackets tend to come in one or two colors, usually gray or brown, and the fit is generic. At Hockerty you choose from herringbone in wool, tweed and blends across a full range of colors and weights. Every jacket is cut to your measurements so the pattern sits flat across the chest and the V-lines flow uninterrupted from shoulder to hem. Pick your lapel, buttons, pockets and lining. Delivery in about 4 weeks, free shipping and a Perfect Fit Guarantee.

What exactly is a herringbone pattern?

Herringbone is a V-shaped zigzag weave created by alternating the direction of the twill at regular intervals. The result looks like the skeleton of a herring fish, which gives the pattern its name. It appears as a subtle, textured surface rather than a bold graphic pattern, making it one of the most understated and versatile weaves available for jackets.

Is herringbone formal or casual?

It spans both. A fine herringbone in wool worsted reads as professional and works in corporate offices alongside solid suits. A heavier herringbone in tweed leans casual and pairs naturally with jeans and boots. The formality depends on the fabric weight, the colour and how you style it. This range is what makes herringbone one of the most adaptable jacket patterns.

What colors work best for herringbone jackets?

Gray is the classic herringbone colour — it works year-round and pairs with everything. Brown and tan herringbone suit autumn and casual settings. Navy herringbone adds subtle texture to what would otherwise be a standard blue jacket. Green and charcoal herringbone offer variety without straying into difficult territory. The pattern flatters every colour because the zigzag adds depth.

Can I wear a herringbone jacket with patterned shirts?

Yes, more easily than most patterned jackets. Because herringbone reads as texture rather than a distinct pattern from normal viewing distance, it pairs well with checked, striped and solid shirts alike. The key is avoiding another zigzag or V-pattern of similar scale. Otherwise, herringbone is one of the safest patterns for mixing with the rest of your wardrobe.

What is the difference between herringbone and tweed?

Tweed is a type of fabric — a rough-textured wool traditionally from Scotland and Ireland. Herringbone is a weave pattern. A jacket can be both tweed and herringbone if it uses a tweed fabric woven in a herringbone pattern. But herringbone also appears in smooth worsteds, cotton and blends. Think of tweed as the material and herringbone as one of several patterns that material can take.