Leather jackets are a staple addition to any wardrobe. Whether it is a cold summer night or a chilly fall day, pair it with your favorite blue jeans or top it over a fitted dress with high heels – a leather jacket makes the perfect fashion statement.
However, leather jackets are expensive, and when buying one, it is vital that you keep a close eye on the details. It is especially relevant if you are making an online purchase. Since 48% of online shoppers purchase on impulse, it is essential that you are aware of all the fine details that go into the making of a perfect jacket.
To help you make the right choice, here are some tips that will assist you in finding the good quality coat that will last you for many occasions.
Know your Leather
Identifying the leather in the jacket you select is a huge determining factor in the coat’s feel, and price. Some common types of leather used in the making of jackets include:
Cowhide
One of the most common type of leather for jackets – the cowhide, is popular for its toughness, durability, and water-resistance. It is widely available and is the most affordable option. In fact, most motorcycle jackets are created using cowhide.
Goatskin
Goatskin is a rare type of leather that looks better even after years of wear. It is soft, light, and durable. It is also the go-to leather for the Navy and Air Force who use this type in their G-1 and A-2 flight jackets.
Lambskin
Jackets crafted out of lambskin are ideal for wear all-year-round. The leather is soft and supple. It is also versatile and works well in different styles of jacket. Unfortunately, lambskin jackets are not very durable and more prone to tearing than any other type of leather.
Calfskin
Typically, calfskin jackets are ideal for making shoes while jackets of this type of leather are less common. However, they are soft and lightweight but still capable of providing the much-needed warmth in winter months.
Deerskin
Deerskin is not only perfect for jackets but also for gloves and handbags. It is durable and soft. In fact, it becomes softer as you wear it. Sharing the same qualities as the cowhide leather, the deerskin material is the ideal choice for consumers looking for more elegant texture.
Consider your requirements
Each leather jacket buyer has his or her requirement. Some are looking for something to wear to bars and clubs while others use it as outerwear for daily tasks. Some popular jacket styles include:
Biker jacket
The biker or the double rider jacket is the most common type of leather jackets. In fact, after witnessing Marlon Brando in The Wild One, most of us generally associate the biker jacket with the classic leather jacket.
Common with motorcyclists, the biker jacket is ideal for a casual outing and looks perfect with slim jeans.
Bomber jacket
The bomber jacket is versatile outerwear and looks best paired with a white shirt and blue jeans. You can also, however, replace your suit jacket with a bomber at some occasions except weddings of course. Favorite with the ‘king of cool’ Steve McQueen, the bomber features a central zip and fitted waist and cuff.
Field jacket
The field jackets are longer than the traditional styles of jacket. They come with multiple front pockets, and you can belt at the waist. Favorite in hues of brown, the field jacket is a perfect choice for the winter months as it keeps the user warmer and better protected from the elements.
Racer jacket
A center front zip, band collar, and minimal designs are the staple features of a racer jacket. Sometimes color-designed zippers enhance the appearance of these jackets as well.
Since it flatters the body, fashion blogger claims the racer jacket to be perfect outerwear for those with broad shoulders. Easy-to-wear, the racer is an ideal companion to jeans and plain shirts.
Flight jacket
As the name suggests, the flight jacket was initially crafted for pilots. The heavy leather and the sheepskin collar and lining are sufficient for the much-needed warmth in the winter months. It is popular in shades of brown with contrasting colored sheepskin.
Check the fit
Proper fitting of a leather jacket is critical. Although an online store will not allow you to try on the piece of apparel, you can enhance your chances of getting the right fit by following a few simple tips.
High-cut armholes
The armholes of a jacket are the critical components of a fitting. High-cut armholes ensure perfect fitting and freedom of movement while low-cut represents poor quality craft.
The sleeves of the jacket should also not be too long. In fact, an inch or two above your cuff is perfect.
Shoulders
Similar to other pieces of outerwear, the leather jacket should not droop from your shoulders but stand aligned with its length.
Length
Last but not the least; consider the ideal length for your requirement. As a general rule, the waist of your leather jacket should hover right around your belt. However, if you are planning to wear the jacket with dresses, you can easily go for a cropped style and opt for a shorter length.
Choose your color
Black and brown are the king if you are looking for a jacket to wear almost every day. They are versatile, and you can easily pair them with different color pants, shirts, and dresses. You can also go for colors like red, green, and pink leather jacket if you are looking to make a style statement.
Fashion extras
Different brands experiment with various styles to create their forms stand out amidst the competition. However, we suggest that you avoid anything that is too extraordinary and keep in mind the detailing such as zippers, collars, and belts.
Another aspect to look for in a jacket is the lining. A luxuriously lined jacket with the right material offers the perfect warmth and fitting. Nevertheless, avoid jackets with bright, colorful lining that clash with the primary color.
Take care of the jackets
Leather jackets are an expensive purchase. Luckily, they are durable if you take proper care of them. Make sure that you always read the label on the jacket and follow the guidelines mentioned. Ensuring proper storage and cleaning will increase the longevity of your leather jacket and last you for many years. Check out this helpful guide on how to maintain your leather jackets.
Get inspired
Over the years, Hollywood has inspired us with an array of fashion. One popular trend amongst celebrities is the use of leather jackets at various occasions. From Jessica Alba’s pink leather jacket to John Lennon’s dark bomber – the world of glamour has countless examples of differently styled leather jackets. Get inspired by their looks. After all, they did it right!
With these tips in mind, we are sure you would have no trouble finding the perfect leather jacket. Good luck in your search!
