When it comes to luxury women’s fashion, few items have achieved quite the wardrobe essential status as the leather jacket. Stylish and sophisticated, this versatile over-garment works effortlessly to dress up or down a wide variety of different outfits, and looks just as good thrown on with a pair of designer jeans and trainers as it does a ball gown and boots.
Like the beautiful black dress and your favourite pair of jeans, a premium leather jacket is an enduring wardrobe staple, and a mirror of individuality. Always iconic, with a daring edge, leather jackets are at home everywhere from the runway to in the city, and although styles and trends change through the ages, in their essence they are unlikely to ever fall out of favour.
As with all luxury items, a quality leather jacket is an investment that is guaranteed to be money well spent and will last you for many years to come. But any fashion-conscious female knows that one jacket just isn’t enough, and from bombers to bikers, leather jackets are as varied as they are chic.
Whatever your style, there’s a jacket to suit – and these iconic varieties should be at the very top of your list.
Hello, moto
When it comes to leather jackets, you can never go wrong with the classic moto, so if you only have one in your wardrobe, then make it one of these. A go-to outerwear piece for carefree elegance with a dash of flair, the moto, which is short for motorbike, is a modern twist on the traditional motorcycle jacket, typically in heavier and more protective leather. The moto’s supple, smooth leather gives it a rebellious look, but appearances can be deceptive, as it’s not actually designed to be protective gear.
Moto jackets have always been a traditional choice, but over recent years, we’ve seen some of the world’s leading luxury brands give it a series of unique new spins and twists. With this in mind, you could easily add a new one to your wardrobe each and every year – but given their timelessness and durability, there really is no need. A classic black leather moto jacket will last a lifetime, and will even get better with age.
Aviator chic
For those with a sense of adventure, the bomber jacket is a no-brainer. Also known as the flight jacket, this historical classic was initially designed to be worn by pilots in the cockpit, but today, they can regularly be seen on the city streets throughout the season, having become one of the most sought-after styles of women’s leather jackets and one that is deserving of a place in your wardrobe this autumn.
Featuring a typically fleece-trimmed collar and iconic features including shoulder epaulets and adjustable buckles, the aviator jacket is warm and comforting but with a distinctive edge. Wear yours with jeans, a T-shirt, and aviator glasses for a minimalistic off-duty look, or embrace rock chick style with straight-legged jeans, a graphic tee and a chunky necklace. For something a little more glamorous, team with an embellished dress or tailored trousers and a pair of killer heels.
Go long or go home
Leather isn’t just meant for cropped jackets, and longer leather overcoats exude a classic elegance. Three quarter length stroller jackets offer a beautiful A-line shape in a style that is casual yet cool, while full-length leather trenches create an air of mystery.
Most long leather jackets feature button-up fronts with simple features like slip pockets and a rear slit for freedom of movement. The traditional belted trench coat is an iconic style that will never look out of place in your wardrobe or out and about – wear with jeans and a cosy woollen knit for relaxed autumnal days, or throw on over a mini skirt or cocktail dress for an evening event.
Oversized
When it comes to autumn and winter fashion, ‘the bigger, the better’ is the rule, especially when it comes to outerwear. This season, it’s set to be all about chunky knits and oversized jackets and coats, including the classic oversized leather jacket.
Timeless elements such as the collar, elasticated hem, and ribbed lining on the sleeves are all timeless elements that offer a vintage appeal, but wearing it over fitted outfits that emphasise the contrast between shapes gives it a thoroughly modern twist.
In recent years, we’ve seen some of our favourite luxury brands coming up with quilted, down-inspired finishes and high collars for added warmth and style. Wear yours with a pair of jeans and vintage shirt or over a fitted dress with tights and boots for an alternative, rock-chic look.
