Fewer things are more all-American than the denim jacket. In 1880 Levi Strauss invented the denim jacket as a functional garment for cowboys, miners and railroad engineers. Since then it has become an iconic apparel item made popular in the 50s by a bad boy image à la James Dean, adapted into the music culture, and then the fashion runway—the denim jacket is a timeless clothing item all must own.

Although the denim jacket is as classic and American as apple pie, finding the perfect denim jacket can take some work. However, I feel strongly that it is a worthwhile endeavor as the denim jacket is a jacket for all occasions. If you are from a “four-season” kind of climate like I am, it can serve as a spring jacket, a cool summer night jacket, fall jacket partnered with a scarf and even a top layer during the frigid winter months. This piece can be worn casually and in some instances, can be dressed up.

Because the denim jacket is a classic, you will find designer name-brand versions (pictured: this Calvin Klein version I scored for $8!) and no-name versions that do the job just as well. And don’t forget the variations that are out there, like this denim jacket vest I found for under $5! Whether worn as high fashion or western wear, the denim jacket is always a good choice.