If you’re looking for a great layering piece for spring and fall wear, the Americana Jacket by Mountain Khakis will fit the bill quite nicely. Gaining its inspiration from the typical tough-as-nails Jackson, Wyoming cowgirl (or all-round outdoors-woman), the Americana is somehow both stylish and rugged.
 
Made of slightly weathered-looking garment washed cotton with a soft cotton herringbone lining, the Americana is nicely cut to really pull together an outfit while still doing its job of keeping you warm. It will dress up jeans and a blouse nicely, but still be right at home on a casual hike or city stroll. I really like the oversized collar (which can zip up over the chin if needed, but folds down for a nice collared touch when not) and the full coverage of a zipper plus snaps up the front. Fully zipped, it does a very good job of keeping out the wind (though it’s not rainproof).
 
You get four (yes, four!) front pockets, two of which are pretty deep and snap securely closed, as well as two nifty little zippered compartments along the sleeves (good for storing lip balm, a few bills, or a metro card). The jacket snaps at the wrists, so you could fold the cuff over to roll up the sleeve a bit. It’s fairly thin, which means two things to the traveler: it will roll or fold well in luggage, not taking up too much room, and it will make for a great layering piece. It won’t be your sole layer during chilly weather, but its weight means it can comfortably layer over a sweater. On nicer days, I’ve worn it over a tee or lightweight blouse and felt both warm enough and just a bit dressed up (which is a plus). 
 
I found the Americana to fit pretty true-to-size for a contemporary women’s fit (tailored to be feminine), but the arm length is a little longer than most. Check the Mountain Khaki size chart for exact sizing information. Bottom line: this jacket is perfect for completing a look. Would a fleece hoodie or sweatshirt work for spring and fall days? Sure, but the Americana will look better, pack better, and feel better. I can see this jacket being my go-to travel piece that will work for just about any outfit, in just about every season.
 
Pick one up in granite, moss (shown), or khaki at the Mountain Khakis site for $154, a pretty decent price for such a versatile travel piece. It’s also available at Amazon for the same price.