Soft Start

Cooler days are upon us. Which means a few things: more layers, textures and the desire to outfit yourself for a new season. Well, this jacket serves all three without causing you to dip into your savings. Made by Alfani Red, it's cut from a lightweight cotton jersey (think a refined sweatshirt) and doesn't slack on details like narrow lapels, a felt undercollar and hacking pockets. The fit is trim, but for a true slim fit you'll likely want to go down a size. The slight stretch makes it as comfortable as it is versatile—dress up the heathered charcoal with a white oxford and a tie or throw it over a V-neck and be the best dressed guy flying coach. Polish off the look with your favorite jeans and a handsome yet hardy pair of lace-up boots. More on those later this week.

$69, at Macy's (available in stores only).

• The Alfani Red line launched in 2009 as a more tailored supplement to the Macy's private label.