style update: The Leather Jacket
Since being popularised by the musicians of the 1950s, the iconic leather jacket has only evolved with age. Fortunately for its fans, who have been granted no such timelessness, the leather jacket has entered a sophisticated age of fitted styles, relaxed colours and compatibility with wardrobes which feature chinos and laptop bags, rather than rhinestones and Fenders.
how to wear it
Massimo Dutti AW 2013-2014 Lookbook, Cabot Place
As with buying any jacket, the right fit is essential. Too tight will feel restrictive and too large will only distort your silhouette. The recent crop of leather jackets are sleek and sporty, designed without collars and with thin, if any, lapels in colours ranging from standard black to tans and olives. Even if you prefer more classic biker styles, the aesthetic to take away from this recent trend is the tailored fit. New leather jackets are often made from lamb or goat hide, which is more supple and streamlined than the horsehide used back in the 1950s. Pick a jacket as you would a blazer – they should hug your shoulders and end at your waist, not slouched over your hips.
What to wear it with
Lambskin Bomber Jacket, £1,425, Dolce & Gabbana, farfetch.com
Resist immediately reaching for jeans and opt for chinos. Chinos’ relaxed style complements the look of leather and makes the wearer appear casual, without trying too hard to be youthful. Stick with flattering earthy tones such as burgundy, moss green and faded navy. With t-shirts, avoid busy logos that will only make you look like the father of someone in a band; collared shirts in soft cotton or lightweight flannel fabrics sit best under leather.
What to avoid
Shearling Collar Leather Jacket, £1,050, Schot t, mrporter.com
Although a leather jacket may look carefree thrown over suit trousers, a white shirt and skinny tie for drinks after work, always err on the side of caution and avoid substituting a leather jacket for a blazer at the office. Deliberately dressing down a suit at work will always come across as careless, rather than stylish.
Where to buy Leather Jacket, £POA, Edwin, edwin - europe.com
Massimo Dutti (Cabot Place), Reiss (Jubilee Place) and Edwin (edwin-europe.com) all sell fitted leather jackets with enough traditional style accents to channel a hint of rebellion.
Look out for Buck Sow Suede Leather Jacket, £375, Reiss, Jubilee Place
Leather may be durable as a material, but as with any item of clothing if it’s improperly tailored it won’t last; so keep an eye out for scuffs or bunched and exposed stitching before making a purchase.