Isn’t it everyone’s dream to own a nice leather jacket? It’s a true treasure of any wardrobe – simple, iconic, and incredibly chic. Leather jacket styles are versatile enough to cater to anyone wanting to look like a rebellious biker or simply dress up a bit. These styles range from the tough biker jacket to the more sophisticated leather blazer and everything in between and can transform any outfit.
Thus, the question is, how do you decide the right style when there are so many of them? This guide delves deeper into the most common and the more obscure types of leather jackets so you can easily choose the right one for you. En route, we’ll debunk some popular misconceptions, share our best tips for getting the most out of leather, and explain why it’s never a waste of money to invest in this material. Want to discover your style? Let’s dive in!
The History of Leather Jackets
One cannot talk about fashion without mentioning the leather jacket, and here is its history. The leather jacket was first developed for pilots during the early twentieth century and was manufactured to meet rigorous conditions. They were made fashionable by such Hollywood stars as Marlon Brando and James Dean in the 1950s. Leather jackets have developed and changed through the years, combining traditional and contemporary trends, to become essential in every wardrobe.
Classic Leather Jacket Styles
The Biker Jacket
No other style is as unique as the biker jacket. With its zipper that’s placed diagonally, large collars and a rather rebellious look, it is a favorite among those who love to stand out from the crowd. It was designed for motorcycle riders and it protects from wind and abrasion together with a casual look.
How to style it: Pair it with ripped jeans and boots and you have a great casual outfit or wear it over a flowy dress for a different look.
The Bomber Jacket
If there was a title for the most flexible item of clothing, then the bomber jacket would be it. With ribbed cuffs, a snug fit and a simple aesthetic, it is both practical and stylish. What was originally designed for pilots to wear, is now worn daily for no particular reason.
How to style it: Wearing it with chinos and sneakers is ideal for a casual look while wearing it with a turtleneck will give you a smart look.
The Racer Jacket (Café Racer)
The racer jacket is one of those jackets that are as simple as they can get and as trendy as they can be. Originally designed for motorcycle racers, this piece is simple in design, which is ideal for today’s fashion-conscious world.
How to style it: Wear it with dark denim and Chelsea boots for a polished yet casual look.
Contemporary Leather Jacket Styles
The Moto Jacket
The moto jacket can be considered the classy version of the biker jacket. A slightly more tailored fit and some finer finishes make this style perfect for those who like a little attitude.
How to style it: Style it up with slim trousers or opt for a casual look by wearing it with jeans and sneakers.
The Fringe Leather Jacket
Your leather jacket with fringe is the perfect piece especially when you want to look edgy. If you are a fan of retro styles and any kind of fringe detailing, it is certainly to your liking.
How to style it: It looks great paired with denim shorts for festivals or dress it up with a more classic twist to your day-to-day look.
The Quilted Leather Jacket
Searching for some texture and coziness? Quilted leather jackets are more comfortable, elegant and fashionable to wear.
How to style it: It will make you look polished when paired with tailored pants and a scarf.
Colored Leather Jackets
Why wear only black when you can wear other colors as well? Colored leather jackets in shades of red, tan, and even pastel colors are good to be noticed.
How to style it: You can wear a jacket that has a bright or obvious color and make the rest of your clothing plain.
Lesser-known but Stylish Leather Pieces
Of course, some stylish leather pieces are not very popular but deserve to be checked out.
The Leather Vest
A leather vest, in particular, is best seen as the ultimate layering garment. Perfect for day-to-day wear or to spice up any outfit, this piece is easy to wear and easy to make a statement with.
How to style it: Layer it up over a shirt for a smart casual outfit or wear it over a plain t-shirt for a more casual and laid-back look.
The Leather Blazer
Well, who said that blazers cannot be fun and trendy? Leather blazers are both stylish and chic to wear suitable for wear at formal and semi-formal occasions.
How to style it: You can pair it with a tailored trouser for a more professional look or wear it with jeans for a casual style.
How to Choose the Right Leather Jacket Style for You
Consider Your Body Type
Not every type of leather jacket will suit everyone because each style suits a certain type of body shape. When it comes to wearing something that gives your body a more streamlined appearance, then the racer jacket is your best bet. Prefer a more relaxed fit? The best choices are bomber and moto jackets.
Pair up the Style with the Event
Not all leather jacket styles are created equal. You cannot buy any leather jacket and expect it to give you that classy look that you desire. While biker jackets are good for everyday wear, leather blazers will help you to dress up for more formal occasions.
Express Your Personality
Do you want to make a statement or do you prefer to keep things simple? You should let your jacket speak for you. It is advisable to try out different leather jacket styles as you discover the best that fits you.
Leather Jacket Myths and Misconceptions
Myth 1: Leather Jackets Are Only for Bikers or Rock Stars
Think again! From the sleek blazers to the vibrant prints, leather jacket styles are for everyone. While today’s leather jackets are available in tailored fits, minimalistic designs and, yes, pastel shades, they can be worn at any time. If you are planning to attend a business meeting or go for a casual brunch, you can find the best leather jacket for yourself.
Myth 2: Leather jackets are not suitable for wear in warm season
Lightweight options and leather vests are a perfect example that this myth is entirely inaccurate. Wear them in style and you can wear leather in any season. Choose jackets that are made from perforated leather or jackets that do not have much lining to them to stay cool.
Myth 3: Black and Brown Are Your Only Options
Shades of bright and pastel colors continue to be embraced. There is no harm in trying and giving it a go! From bright red to soft blue, leather jackets are no longer limited to a single color that suits every personality type. Custom dyeing services also make it possible to come up with a product that is completely different from the rest to suit your taste.
Myth 4: Leather Is Bad for the Environment
Updated products such as sustainable leather and vegan materials are making it simpler to make that ethical decision. Today many manufacturers of leather products are indeed using environmentally friendly procedures like vegetable tanning.
Styling Tips for Leather Jackets and Accessories
Seasonal Adaptability
Just layer a bomber jacket over a hoodie in the winter or wear a leather vest with a T-shirt in the summer. You can wear your jacket with a lightweight sweater or a scarf to give off a chic look. For spring, you can wear pastel-colored leather jackets for those mornings that may be chilly but afternoons are warm.
Fabric Pairings
Leather also goes well with denim for that relaxed look or with wool for that business look. Combining the leather with cotton or linen will give a very comfortable and laid-back feel that is ideal for the sunny weather. Remember that wearing all leather is not as disastrous as it can sound, especially if the textures are different.
Accessorizing Tips
Feel free to complete the look with scarves, boots or statement bags. To add more sophistication you can layer with accessories like neck pieces; thick chains or delicate pendants.
Conclusion
Leather jackets are not only apparel but they’re a lifestyle. With so many leather jacket styles there is no doubt that everyone will find one that suits them. A leather jacket is a biker jacket, a racer, or a blazer in bold color – whichever way you choose to go, leather is forever in style.
All of these leather jacket styles are great, but which one will you be wearing first? Let your clothes speak for you and always follow the rule – if in doubt, go leather!
