Leather is a wonderful clothing material. It’s remarkably tough, virtually windproof, and ages beautifully. There are few things better than a time-worn patina. A leather motorcycle jacket is a great way to add both some leather and a little bit of edginess into your look. I think the trouble with branching out into this style is that most guys think they have to load up a shopping cart full of motorcycle accessories in order to feel “qualified” to wear the jacket. Don’t get me wrong, it doesn’t necessarily hurt if you have a couple boxes of spare Kawasaki parts and EBC brakes sitting in your workshop at home. But consider some of Tailor & Barber’s favorite style icons like Steve McQueen, Patrick Dempsey, and Daniel Craig who wear (wore) leather motorcycle jackets for style as much as, if not more than, for functionality.
The key to wearing a leather jacket for style is to keep the fit trim and sharp. Use the tight lines. Make them work for you. Don’t hide under an oversized, draping sheet unless it’s a duster and you’re rocking two six-shooters. Pairing fabrics is key with most outfits, and leather is no exception. Leather is typically a thick material with some heft to it (however, it can be quite delicate and supple if desired). I think it works best to match that heaviness with complementary materials like denim, wool, oxford cloth, and leather boots. Another important point to remember is to keep colors consistent. Match the leather of your belt and boots to your jacket (i.e. black). The colors don’t have to match exactly, but keep the tone consistent.
Look 1
Jacket: Z1R 357 // Trousers: Brooks Brothers // Boots: To Boot New York
Shirt: T.M. Lewin // Tie: The Tie Bar // Belt: Allen Edmonds // Sunglasses: Ray-Ban
Look 2
Jacket: Scorpion EXO 1909 // Jeans: Levi’s 501 // Boots: Red Wing
Shirt: Urban Outfitters // Belt: Frye // Sunglasses: Ray-Ban
So the next time you’re feeling like your style has gotten a little “soft”, take a look at a leather motorcycle jacket, let your inner badass out, and have a little fun!
This post is sponsored by BikeBandit.com. The thoughts and opinions expressed herein are mine alone.
