When it comes to living a life of luxury, dressing to impress is a daily endeavour that, for most of us, goes without saying. From sharp suits for the boardroom to the kind of high-end men’s leather jackets that make just about any male look effortlessly stylish, there are certain staples that every sartorial gent should have in his wardrobe, and putting together an outfit for those off-duty days often requires just as much care and attention as getting dressed for a black tie or red carpet event.
If you’ve long been attempting to master the skill of casual dressing, then you’re not alone. Often, it can feel harder to create the desired look when you’re used to being in business-wear, but keeping it simple is undoubtedly the best approach. A plain white shirt, jeans and brogues is a classic combination that will never go amiss, but the piece-de-resistance to any outfit is of course, is a great jacket. Thrown on over just about anything to instantly upgrade your look, it’s the best style investment you’ll make this year.
So, if you’re feeling spoilt for choice for spring / summer 2021 and can’t quite decide which quality designer piece to invest in this year, then look no further – because we’ve pulled together the ultimate guide to help you make the right choice.
The leather bomber jacket
The leather bomber jacket is undoubtedly a true classic, and has been a key wardrobe staple for the rich, the famous and the stylish for decades. This timeless piece will never go out of style, and a good quality, well crafted men’s bomber jacket will last you for years to come, too.
Men’s bomber jackets tend to be available in a variety of colours, but you can never go wrong with a classic black. Tan, navy blue, brown or maroon varieties can add an extra dimension of personality and interest to any look though – so if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, then don’t hesitate to get your wallet out for one in every shade.
How to wear
A bomber jacket looks great thrown on over a t-shirt, polo, button-down or even a turtle-neck for a casual and effortless look. Pair with jeans, khakis or textured trousers made from wool, tweed or plaid for the ultimate in dressed-down cool.
The suede jacket
Nothing says luxury quite like an expensive suede jacket, and men’s leather outerwear would never have evolved as it has without the introduction of this soft and luxurious material. Suede offers up a guaranteed understated style – while adding a hint of visual interest thanks to its subtle texture and richness. Suede can be incorporated into your wardrobe in many ways – the most obvious of which being shoes – but a suede bomber jacket, blazer or vest is a braver and more impactful way to go about it.
How to wear
A suede jacket is a smart way of dressing up your look without the need to put in much thought or effort. Whether you go for a deep blue suede jacket, a black one or perhaps a neutral tone, it’s certain to look great teamed with a crisp white button-down. Add lace-ups or slip-ons in an earthy brown, which will go with many different colours except black. For a black suede jacket, black shoes, a matching belt, a pinstripe shirt and a neutral coloured pair of trousers will add an extra element of style to your ensemble.
The leather trench coat
While a trench coat or two should be a staple item in every UK wardrobe, leather trench coats in particular exude a level of charm and sophistication that will upgrade your look with ease.
Not just functional but able to instantly smarten up your appearance when you need a quick outfit change, if you haven’t treated yourself to one yet, then now is the time to do so. Black is once again the classic colour choice here, but tan, navy, grey and burgundy are equally as stylish and can work well with a variety of different ensembles, too.
How to wear
While leather trench coats work well as a day to day overcoat, you can add some extra drama by teaming yours with something a little more daring. Activewear, for example, can instantly be elevated with a leather trench thrown on over the top, while for a business get-up, it can inject a little style and personality into an otherwise stuffy suit.
Combine with dark tones, a combination of pale and medium colours or a monochromatic themed look that includes different tones of the same colour family. For extra visual interest, add textured fabrics for depth or patterns such as stripes, checks or plaid.
The fur or shearling jacket
Perhaps one of the most popular types of leather jackets for men are fur and shearling jackets. Especially during the winter months, these pieces are luxurious items that have the power to elevate just about any look, but even in the spring and autumn months, when weather can be unpredictable, they add warmth and style in equal doses.
Fur and shearling is often seen incorporated into various different types of leather jackets, including aviators and biker jackets – as well as leather vests, overcoats and peacoats. Fur and shearling jackets, though available in a variety of tones, call for natural colours, and look best in neutral shades of beige, cream and brown.
How to wear
An earthy brown fur or shearling jacket or coat looks great with a contrasting pair of trousers – think khaki, tweed or similar textured fabrics. Add a simple button-down shirt or sweater, and you’re good to go. For longer days outdoors, up the cosy factor with a wool knit beanie hat and you’re all set for an outdoor adventure – whether you’re heading to a cabin in the hills or jet-setting to an especially chilly destination abroad.
If there is one thing you can never say about a man’s wardrobe, it’s that it can be filled with too many jackets, and versatile staple items such as these will see you through every season in style. Why choose just one, when you could treat yourself to an entire collection? The added choice will make daily dressing all the more enjoyable, and elevate the sartorial male to all new heights in the style kudos stakes in the process.
