Jacket (from the French. Jaquette) is called a shortened version of his jacket, which usually has a length of up to the waist, but sometimes up to mid-thigh. It may be crosslinked or knitted fabric.
This type of clothing appeared in France in the XIII-XV centuries. Initially it was the subject of a man's wardrobe - coat with divergent sides, with stand-up collar and sleeves. Grab it at the waist belt.
Then he began to wear jackets and women. This happened only in the 1930s. XX century. First female models were made of fine fabrics and blouses looked like, then they were made of more dense materials.
Today jacket is very popular. It can be anything - the usual length or truncated (bolero), direct or short-cut, long and cropped sleeves, a collar and without. It is convenient and practical, suitable for different clothes - dresses and skirts to pants, jeans and shorts.