It may only be February, but we’re desperately looking forward to spring and (dare we say it) some sunshine. While bundled up in our winter coats – which, let’s be honest, never really look that chic with a runny nose and rain-soaked hair – we’re thinking ahead about the lighter jacket trends we’ll be wearing as soon as we get the chance.

One style we’re really excited about? Leather shackets. It gives all the effortless cool of a leather jacket, but it’s thinner and comfier (and you can actually move your arms).

A favourite of ours is Max Mara’s Kaya Leather Jacket. The purveyors of quiet luxury (and a favourite of celebrities from Meghan Markle to Alexa Chung) are known for their stylish and supple leather goods, and this hip-skimming shacket is no exception. Described online as a ‘buy-now wear-forever piece’, we love everything from the indulgent chocolate brown shade (perfect for pairing with neutrals like creams and greys) to the slightly cropped sleeve which lets your underlayer stylishly peak out.

Kaya Leather Jacket, £620, Max Mara via John Lewis

The only bit we’re not so keen on? The price. As you’d expect of a pure leather piece, the Max Mara buy comes with a hefty £620 price tag. Yet it’s still sold out in most sizes, which we see as pretty solid evidence of what a stellar jacket this is.

But how about if you’ve not got hundreds of quid to splash on a jacket, no matter how nice it might be? Well, good news: we’ve spotted a very similar shacket in M&S’s new-in section, and it’s less than 10% of the price.

M&S’s £59 Faux Leather Jacket is a similar perfect hip-skimming length to the Max Mara version, and has the same pocket detailing and dark tortoiseshell buttons down the front. The colour is described as dark olive, so it has a slightly more khaki undertone than its designer inspiration, but it’s still neutral enough to pair with your preferred denim shade, whatever that should be. 

Faux Leather Jacket, £59, M&S

It’s not just us who are fans. Despite only dropping in the last few days, shoppers in the review section have already labelled the jacket an ‘absolute steal’ and ‘fantastic value for money’. ‘I had so many compliments when I wore it,’ one wrote. ‘Everyone thought it was real leather.’

At £561 cheaper than Max Mara’s leather jacket, we’re betting that M&S’s version will sell out in no time. Shop at the link above (and scroll down on the M&S website for some helpful styling tips courtesy of the team too).