Layering is one of the single greatest fashion opportunities found in the cooler seasons, and a great shell should fit as well over a single oxford as it should a sweater, serving its function as protection from the elements. Last year, we first learned of the Aether brand and checked out the Aether Summit Jacket and Space Hoodie, both to our liking. This year, we got our hands on the new Aether Stormy jacket, in a shade Aether seductively calls total eclipse. Indeed.

This jacket is all business. Forgoing unnecessary frills, the Aether Stormy is obviously constructed with a purpose that goes back to Aether co-founders Jonah Smith and Palmer West’s mission statement: stylish performance gear, designed for the metropolitan weekend warrior.

Constructed of an Italian heavy duty bonded cotton/poly fabric, the Stormy’s monolithic presence is noticeable. Details like direct embroidery at the pockets, covered storm flap with Riri zipper, back vent, and articulation points at the elbow prove the technical capabilities of the Stormy, while buttoned epaulettes and cuffs provide the slim fitting jacket with a sense of poise that works as well with denim as it does a shirt and tie.

Editor’s Tip: Say pass on the suit jacket and wear the Aether Stormy instead. Best describe as a jacket that lives somewhere between a dark, tailored, cropped trench and a technical rain jacket, you’ll be able to replace two coats with one that manages to excel at being both.

Cost: $625