Convertible Outerwear

Every once in a while, you can score a piece from a mass retailer that looks, feels and operates like piece you'd find from a more specialized designer brand. Case in point: this technical hybrid jacket from the Gap. It's a 60/40 cotton and nylon parka shell with some smart  military field jacket styling and plenty of secure pocket space. It's also got a dual zipper and a covered placket ready to take on the icy gusts of seasonal precipitation. And underneath? A breathable, water-resistant lining (at left) that zips out and can be worn on its own as a light quilted bomber. The jacket has the same sporty feel as ones three and four times the price, but is also lightweight enough that layering up underneath won't weigh you, or your wallet, down.