WORDS BY TONY COOK & STEPHEN YU
The biker gang uniform has evolved into an indispensable wardrobe staple, but if you’re wondering how to wear a leather jacket without looking like a biker, you might need some help. Fortunately, this season’s leather jackets are so wearable you won’t even need any rock god swagger to pull them off – though if you’ve got it, flaunt it!
From a skinny fit Saint Laurent to a classic cut Valentino, we’ve found everyone’s motorcycle jacket soul mate, so read on to find yours.
ROLL UP
Make an impact this fall by mastering a mix of fabrics and texture. A structured leather jacket with a soft wool roll-neck sweater strikes just the right combination.
Style Tip: A chunky roll-neck is a great way of adding that extra luxury element to your outfit. Opt for rich colours such as gold or bottle green.
Saint Laurent Studded Slogan Biker Jacket // Ermenegildo Zegna Turtle Neck Jumper // Pt01 Slim-Fit Trousers // Prada Lace-Up Derby Shoes
ROCK ON
Since the days of The Ramones the leather jacket has been a sartorial gateway to rock god cool, and it’s substantially easier to come by the ability to write an iconic guitar lick!
Style Tip: Update classic rebel style and wear your leather with a printed t-shirt, slim-cut jeans and silver jewellery like your favourite rock legend.
Givenchy Small Logo Biker Jacket // Northskull Atticus Skull Seal Pendant // Philipp Plein Crew-Neck T-Shirt // Balmain Biker Jeans
BEST DISTRESSED
Like a fine wine, an investment leather jacket will only get better with age. If (like us) you’re on the impatient side, buy a leather biker jacket that’s already been treated to look distressed. No one will know!
Style Tip: You can afford to go fully monochrome with your outfit, as many distressed versions will appear slightly lighter in colour and tone.
Prada Band Collar Biker Jacket // Comme Des Garcons Play Striped T-Shirt // Balmain Distressed Jeans // Dolce & Gabbana Shopper Tote Bag
WEAR WITH NATURALS
A heavy biker jacket doesn’t have to be worn solely with your winter wardrobe. For an early spring look try wearing yours with shades that echo nature.
Style Tip: Keep your palette pure by wearing a classic pair of relaxed cream chinos with a soft long sleeve white t-shirt. Pair with all-white trainers to finish off this clean, crisp aesthetic.
Valentino VLTN Cropped Biker Jacket // Prada Long-Sleeve T-Shirt // Gucci Classic Chinos // Grenson Lace-Up Sneakers
TANGERINE DREAM
It’s true that black never falls out of fashion, but sometimes a burst of colour in your everyday dress can lift you to that next level of style.
Style Tip: Wear a silk shirt in rich orange tones underneath a tough black biker jacket to sweeten up your look.
Philipp Plein Biker Jacket // Jacquemus La Chemise Jean Shirt // DSquared2 Fitted Slim-Fit Jeans // Jil Sander Chunky Sole Derby Shoes
MORE IS MORE
For high impact dressing, embrace a maximalist approach when it comes to your wardrobe by loading up on accessories to compliment your statement jacket.
Style Tip: Keep things rugged yet relaxed by mixing true Americana accessories such as Stetson hats, aviator sunglasses and bandana-style neckties alongside distressed denims.
Unravel Project Worn-Out Effect Biker Jacket // Borsalino Wide-Brimmed Folar Hat // Etro Floral Print Scarf // Philipp Plein Stonewashed Slim Fit Jeans