THE JOURNAL
3 MINUTE READ
What’s Missing From Your Wardrobe? A Leather Jacket
Words by Lucy Kingett
6 February 2024
Despite their ubiquity, leather jackets can seem somewhat an advanced fashion item. If you’ve been put off trying one because you’re worried you’ll look like you’re playing Danny Zuko in a school play, you’re certainly not alone. While we’ll defend biker styles to the death (and our belief that just about anyone can pull off the right one), there is so much more to explore. From western and bomber designs to shearling-lined flight jackets and casual suede options (yes, suede is leather, too), there truly is a leather jacket for every man. To top it all off, they’re easy to dress up or down, suit almost any season and are incredibly hardwearing, so are a guaranteed good investment. We promise that once you slip on your perfect match, it will be game over for the rest.
01. The quintessential SAINT LAURENT biker jacket
OK, we know what we said about not looking like a character from Grease, but trust us and let go of that preconception. A beautifully made biker jacket like this slim-fitting example from SAINT LAURENT will last for ever and never go out of style. Pair it with an all-black fit for a bit of Parisian cool or try layering it over sweats for an instantly more interesting weekend look.
02. The understated Brunello Cucinelli suede blouson
If you’re just dipping your toe into the world of hide jackets, then this casual suede number, expertly crafted in Italy by Brunello Cucinelli, is our suggestion. With subtle nods to western styling thanks to the practical chest pockets and an easy boxy shape, you’ll find that it won’t spend much time in the closet.
03. The signature CELINE HOMME bomber jacket
Since Mr Hedi Slimane took over at CELINE HOMME in 2018, the bomber jacket has become a signature piece for the brand. This supple leather version brings a smarter, considered edge to your casualwear rotation – and goes to show that leather suits almost any silhouette.
04. The Loro Piana shearling flight jacket
While leather is practical for keeping out chill winds, it’s not always the cosiest option. That’s where soft and insulating shearling comes in. Channel a bygone era of style in Loro Piana’s sumptuous flight jacket – the classic masculine shape is cut from deep pile shearling and detailed with tonal calfskin.
05. The textured LOEWE bomber jacket
For a brand that started out as a collective of leather craftsmen from Madrid way back in 1846, it’s no wonder that LOEWE knows how to cut a fine leather jacket. This relaxed longline bomber is a MR PORTER favourite. The grained nappa leather brings a satisfying tactile quality that will age beautifully over time.
06. The sleek Mr P. coach jacket
Mr P. knows a thing or two about premium everyday staples, so if you’re looking for a quietly sophisticated leather option that will earn its keep, this may be your pick. The stroke of genius is in combining the smart, full-grain leather with a clean-cut coach shape (more often made from shell or canvas), which gives the jacket a clever contemporary twist.
07. The Enfants Riches Déprimés western jacket
Founded by conceptual artist Mr Henri Alexander Levy, Enfants Riches Déprimés’ collections are influenced by the punk and avant-garde culture of the 1970s and 1980s. This structured suede jacket is exclusive to MR PORTER, and while it will certainly look the part over a vest and layered necklaces, it would also be a fine choice (dare we say it) over a shirt for those smart-casual occasions.
