How to Style a Leather Jacket For Men

SaveThe leather jacket is such a classic and versatile item of clothing that’s been on trend since the beginning of time and will never go out of fashion. If you don’t already own one, this is a ‘must’ staple piece missing from your wardrobe. This jacket says some bold statements about your choice of style so be sure to pick the right one for you. If you’re looking for some advice on which one that might be then look no further. This guide on how to wear and style a leather jacket will help you to determine which one is right for you.

Leather Jacket Styles

Biker Jacket

The biker jacket was originally designed for motorcyclists, with their cropped style allowing riders to lean over their bikes without the fastening digging into their bodies. Just putting this jacket on will give you more of an edge. The biker jacket tends to be more eye-catching as it has a lot more features to it, such as buckles, zips, poppers, and more, and almost always features a collar, with large lapels that are designed to fold over each other or snap down. The jacket looks slick during day or night, whether you’re hitting the streets or going out for a drink.

Bomber Jacket

The bomber jacket was the original flight jacket made for pilots back in the day. They’re generally quite simple so that the main focus is the shape, cinching tighter at the waist and wrists. These are great when heading to a ball game with your mates or even going out to lunch during the day. You can pair many different things with this kind of jacket to create different looks. It’s become a seriously popular style in recent times and we’re not surprised as to why.

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Racer Jacket

The racer jacket was originally made for just that, to race. After World Warr II, many men started racing motorbikes between the local pubs and cafes for a bit of fun. This created the need for a minimalist leather jacket that was heavy enough at the back to provide enough protection with a strong zipper at the front. Racer jackets usually are a slimmer fit and have a small amount of detail, including just that front zip. They’re rather ‘minimalist’ when it comes to style and tend to flatter the body, especially if you’ve got bigger shoulders.

Flight Jacket

Flight jackets were originally created for pilots with shearling lining made to keep them warm. Today, both pilots and your average man wear the jacket, making it both practical and fashionable. They’re a must for winter, as they’ll keep you nice and toasty while looking killer at the same time. Don’t go overboard with the layering. Keep it simple and contemporary with plain trousers and a light gauge knit.

Field Jacket

The field jacket was originally created for military wear. It used to be made in a cotton drill fabric but has since been updated into leather. This leather jacket features multiple pockets and can be longer in length than others. The field jacket doesn’t play around; it’s a serious fashion statement. You could even say it looks higher-end than some of your other leather jackets and usually has a snugger fit.

Leather Jacket Outfits

Biker Grunge

Pair a biker jacket with some black ripped jeans and high-top sneakers or Dr. Martins. You could even wear a pair of skate shoes for more of a street-style look. For the top, you could wear a black plain tee or even a band T-shirt. Just remember, the biker jacket always looks best when paired with darker colors to keep the grunge/rocker appearance intact.

Sports Luxe

Keep it simple. Throw on a black pair of slim-fitting black jeans with either a black or white tee that has a logo on it so that it’s not completely plain. To really make this look sports luxe you could even add a zip-through hoodie underneath your leather jacket. Finally, top off the outfit with a pair of converse or any other similar street-styled shoes. If you’re looking to add accessories, a cap works perfectly to finish the look or even some sunglasses. Keep in mind that your leather jacket is the perfect addition to this outfit, adding a bit of luxury to an otherwise, much-downplayed look.

Preppy and Proper

Simply pair a white shirt with some grey trousers and throw on a tie to dress the look up even more. Oxford shoes go perfectly with this, keeping with the preppy style. Then finally add your leather jacket, preferably matching it to the color of your shoes. The preppy look is all about sophistication, but the leather jacket adds a bit of spice to it.

French but Functional

You can always dress up a leather jacket just a little by styling it with a dark turtleneck sweater and a pair of chinos. Finish the look off with some derby shoes and a black belt to really be on trend. This look is the one to go for if you want to wear an outfit on the weekend that’s quite stylish, while still wearing your leather jacket.

Workplace Practical

You don’t always want to wear a suit to work, so a leather jacket is the next best thing. Pair this look with some chinos and derby shoes for the perfect office look. Then try wearing a turtleneck sweater with a vest over the top; finally, add your leather jacket to finish it off. While this look is still workplace smart, it allows you to feel a lot more casual and comfortable at work.

 Best Men’s Leather Jackets

1. Wantdo Men’s Faux Leather Jacket with Removable Hood

Turn up your street style with this faux leather jacket from Wantdo. It features a padded cotton lining for comfort and a polyester outer, which is both waterproof and wind-resistant, so you stay warm. In classic bomber jacket style, it also has elastic cuffed wrists and waist for a secure fit and to keep your body heat in. Wear it with the hood attached for a more urban look. Alternatively, if you need to dress up more, you can easily remove the hood, as it zips off easily. Lastly, while classic black is an excellent choice, there are other variations, including brown, coffee, dark chocolate, and wine red.

2. Flavor Men Brown Leather Motorcycle Jacket with Removable Hood

Add an element of ruggedness to your look with this lumbersnack-worthy bomber jacket. It has lots of internal and external pockets for keeping your belongings safe and your hands warm. There is also a zip-off hood so you can wear it up or take it off for a dressier look. The exterior is genuine leather, while the lining is polyester with cotton stuffing to keep you toasty. Plus, the central zip closure and ribbed waistband and cuff will keep any frosty wind or snow out. Best of all, it comes in an extended size range from extra-small to six-X tall, so no matter your build, you can rock this leather jacket.

3. Chouyatou Men’s Vintage Stand Collar Pu Leather Jacket

This slimline cafe racer is a great option for stylish men who prefer a sleeker look. It still has just as much attitude as a biker or bomber but fits snugly to your body, accentuating broad shoulders. The construction is made from good quality faux leather, so it’s very reasonably priced and a good option if you’re unsure about rocking a leather jacket. There is a center zip-closer, as well as zips on the cuffs and paneling for added detail. There’s also a huge variety of color and styling options. Choose from a range of browns, charcoals, burgundies, and black, some with ribbed panels and crosshatching.

4. MR P. Shearling-Trimmed Leather Bomber Jacket

You’ll be as snug as a bug in a rug in this shearling-trimmed bomber from Mr. P. The comfortable cut is great for layering but doesn’t look untidy, thanks to the ribbed cuffs and waistband. When it comes to the materials used in this leather jacket, the exterior is genuine cowhide, the shearling is lambskin, and the lining is acetate, a semi-synthetic fabric. Plus, if you get too hot with the fuzzy collar, it is easily removable. You’ll be rocking this for years to come, as an investment piece like this is going to age like a fine wine with the right care.

5. Kingsman Burnished-Leather Jacket

This timeless leather jacket is part of the exclusive line at Mr. P that is inspired by The King’s Man movie. In collaboration with the film’s director, Matthew Vaughn, the line features military styling, classic lines, and signature tailoring, all of which echo the movie’s wardrobe, designed by Michele Clapton. The jacket features beautifully burnished sheep leather that will develop its own unique character over time. It also has a retro camp collar and buffalo horn buttons to round out the style’s timelessness. Pair this jacket with tailored slacks and a knitted wool jumper for a 1960s British secret spy vibe.

6. Philipp Plein Leather Biker Jacket

Keep it sleek and edgy with this leather biker jacket from Philipp Plein. It’s classic, stylish, and sure to fit easily into your wardrobe. The buttery soft lambskin leather feels incredible on and allows plenty of movement and flexibility. It will also wear exceptionally well, softening more with age and molding perfectly to your frame. The banded collar and feature zips break up the dark black, as does the paneling along the arms and sides. Finally, there is also a metal-finish logo plaque on the rear of the jacket. Create a dark and broody rock’n’roll look, by matching this jacket with skinny black jeans and a pair of combat boots.

7. Flavor Men’s Leather Flight Bomber Jacket Air Force Aviator

Channel your inner Indiana Jones with this flight-style bomber jacket from Flavor. The outers are genuine pigskin leather, which is dense and durable, yet also feels supple and moves well. Meanwhile, the lining and padding are made from 100% cotton and feature a printed American flag. With lots of room throughout the body, the fit is comfortable and suitable for layering in the colder months. When it is cold, the jacket also comes with a removable hood for that extra level of warmth.

8. Diesel Logo Patch Jacket

Choose a streamlined design with this logo patch leather jacket from Diesel. Its symmetrical silhouette features two chest zip pockets and two waist ones, as well as zippers on the cuffs. The banded collar also stays closed with snap clasps. Meanwhile, lambskin outers are exceptionally soft and flexible, while the paneling and branding down the arms add interest and better movement. If you’re a classic gent, who’s looking for something easy to incorporate into your daily style, this is an excellent option.

9. Karl Lagerfeld Ikonik Biker Jacket

Karl Lagerfeld’s legacy continues with this sexy black biker jacket. The off-center zip and statement lapels are quintessential features of a classic biker jacket. Combine this with the slim fit and you have a flattering style that accentuates broad shoulders. It also has plenty of storage with zipped pockets on both sides and at the chest. Plus, lambskin outers will keep you warm and age nicely with each wear, as the shape conforms to your body. Keep with the design’s edginess by wearing this with ripped black jeans, a band t-shirt, and your favorite hi-top sneakers.

10. Salvatore Santoro Zip-up Leather Jacket

Made in Italy, this leather jacket from Salvatore Santoro wouldn’t seem astray in a forest cabin in the Canadian Rockies. It has paired back detailing that complements the discreetly distressed sheepskin suede. The lining is 95% cotton, so it breathes exceptionally well while still keeping you warm. This is the kind of jacket that becomes a stylish gent’s signature look. Wear it paired with a pair of classic blue jeans, a pair of Timberlands, and a casual flannel shirt.

11. Juun.J Crinkled Hooded Jacket

If you’re a gent looking for an unconventional leather jacket, this design from Juun. J is ideal. The South Korean label combines urban dressing with flattering cuts and elegant structure. As such, this jacket brings elements of a hoodie and a bomber jacket together in one style. The faux leather features a crinkle finish, which extends to the padded hood. Zip front fastening and elastic cuffs and hem keep the warmth in, while the pockets are perfectly placed and large enough to keep your hands nice and warm. Rock this casually, or team it up with black trousers and work boots for a modern interpretation of office casual.

12. Iceberg Logo Leather Jacket

Iceberg mixes together sports luxe and American Pop Art in an aesthetic that’s synonymous with the brand. This logo jacket is no exception to this design inspiration. It’s made from the softest lambskin, with plenty of detail thanks to the embroidered sleeve logo, striped sleeve panel, and bold logo print design on the back. Elasticated fabric features at the cuffs, hem, and neckline, ensuring the ultimate comfort in those high-movement areas. While it’s not as classic as some leather jacket options, it’s a great addition to a healthy wardrobe that needs a big statement.

13. Schott LC5331X Pilot Premium Leather Jacket

Schott was the first manufacturer of leather motorcycle jackets, having designed one specifically for Harley Davidson back in 1928. It was a significant deviation from the raincoats that the New York-based company ordinarily produced, but lead to a long legacy of creating excellent quality leather jackets for distinguished gentlemen. Customers include Marlon Brando and The Ramones. As such, rocking this pilot jacket will put you firmly in the same style category as these icons. It’s made from beautiful leather, with a faux fur collar, which can be removed. It also has a regular fit, making it ideal for layering in the winter months.

14. Tommy Hilfiger Shearling Leather Jacket

You’ll be looking ever so flying in this shearling leather flight jacket from Tommy Hilfiger. It keeps with the classic, contrasting colors of deep brown lambskin outer and warm cream sheepskin shearling lining. The natural fibers are durable, breathable, and exceptionally warm. A zip closes the body of the jacket, while there’s a double buckle fastening at the collar. Flight jackets first came into rotation in 1917, when the US Army Aviation Clothing Board brought them in to keep pilots warm in their open-air cockpits. Consequently, it channels a distinguished, proud history and masculine energy.

15. Yves Salomon Homme Leather Bomber Jacket

The Yves Salomon fashion house has a 100-year history of designing creative and distinctive garments for both men and women. Choose a different look with this grey leather jacket featuring bomber jacket styling. It has a stand-up collar, and elasticated leather cuffs and hemline. It’s also made from ultra-soft lambskin, which tends to have a smoother, more even finish, which is ideal for light colors. Wear this with slim-fit trousers, a white button-down shirt, and a simple tie for a proper and preppy look.

16. Eleventy Zip-up Leather Jacket

With all pieces made in Italy, Eleventy’s focus is on refined staples that revere the idea of humble luxury and timeless design. Consequently, this leather jacket is a perfect investment as it will undoubtedly stand the test of time in terms of style and durability. The leather exteriors are guaranteed to age well, while the slim fit is flattering for most body types. The simplicity of the design also makes it easy to wear. Match it with slacks, loafers, and a roll-neck jumper, or rock it with jeans, a t-shirt, and Chelsea boots.

17. Neil Barrett Panelled Leather Jacket

What do you get when you mix a letterman jacket with a leather bomber? This incredible style from Neil Barrett brings modern minimalism and sportswear together. The front panel is made from 100% leather and boasts angled pockets, a high neck collar, and zip closure. Then, the arms and back panel are made from a stretchy viscose and spandex blend that is soft and comfortable. Ribbed cuffs and hemline keep the design neat, emulating both the letterman and bomber styles. This leather jacket is perfect for gents looking for a different interpretation of traditional styles.

18. Landing Leathers Men’s Air Force A-2 Leather Flight Bomber Jacket

You’ll be feeling like an elite airman in no time with this bomber jacket from Landing Leathers. It has a roomy fit that’s great for layering and comes in an extended size run from extra-small to double extra-large tall. YKK zips feature on the closure, while the ribbed cuffs and waistband help insulate you against the warm. It’s also made from genuine leather, coming in both distressed brown and sharp black.

19. Versace Black Leather Blouson Jacket

Versace brings its recognizable motifs and confident design to this leather blouson jacket. It uses a mix of luxury lambskin leather across the upper chest, back, and sleeves, and nylon fabric around the midsection and underarms. The nylon features the tonal Greek key pattern and white piping. There’s also a large logo appliqued across the chest — there’s no mistaking which house is responsible for this jacket! If you’re a Versace devotee or looking for an interesting take on a leather jacket, this style is a flawless choice.

20. Mackage Black Leather Mangus Jacket

Mackage’s Mangus black leather jacket is a quintessential biker style that oozes cool. Beyond the lambskin body, it also features a removable jersey fabric hood, heavy metal features, and asymmetrical zippers. It has a slim silhouette that shifts easily with your body and an action back cut to allow bigger arm movement. It’s the perfect style for light layering in the transitional seasons. Rock this jacket with combat boots, black joggers, and a simple black t-shirt.

How Much Should I Pay for a Leather Jacket?

Leather jackets can vary hugely in price. Real leather is more expensive than faux leather but will last for years and years. As such, it’s definitely an investment, with prices ranging from $500 to several thousand. Generally, the more you pay, the better the quality. However, for designer brands, you will, to an extent, also be paying for the name. Material-wise, look for full-grain leather as it’s the least modified or top-grain leather that has been treated for a softer, smoother finish. You’ll also need to consider hide type, with cow, lambskin, and calfskin as the most popular. Next, look for minimal, sensible stitching. Cheap manufacturing uses as much hide as possible, resulting in lots of seams, affecting the shape and durability. Finally, faux leather can look just as good, without the price tag or animal impact. Just remember, though, that it probably won’t last as long.

Caring for a Leather Jacket

Looking after real leather is straightforward but does take a bit more effort than fabric jackets. Always give your jacket a couple of coats of waterproofing to help resist damage from the rain. Do this when you first purchase it, each season, and whenever it gets wet. If it does get wet, let it air dry away from direct heat; otherwise, it can become stiff and brittle. Once it’s dry, use a clear leather conditioner and a soft cloth to add hydration back to the material before finishing with another coat of waterproofing. To prevent the jacket shoulders from stretching and deforming, use a padded hanger for storage, and never put it away damp. Finally, when it comes to cleaning, spot clean with a damp cloth. You can try dry cleaning, but make sure you choose someone with experience in leather jackets so they don’t inadvertently damage it.

How to Wear a Leather Jacket

• Style is important. Pick the leather jacket that suits you best and matches the clothing you already have.
• Black is your best option, it goes with practically anything, therefore, you’ll get the most use out of your jacket, otherwise try brown.
• When pairing your outfit, keep to neutral colors, the look should be simple.
• If you’re going to wear a leather jacket, make sure you have the confidence to match. The leather jacket is a bold statement piece of clothing.
• Leather jackets age nicely if you take good care of them. Be sure to keep them out of the rain and when storing, put them on a padded hanger so that they keep their shape. You don’t want them forming points at the shoulders.