The Unscripted: How to Wear Biker Styles in Summer
Along with roaring engines and the freedom of the open road, the biker lifestyle is famous for its killer fashion. From Marlon Brando to Bikercore, bike-enthusiasts and movie stars alike have been adopting this timeless style for decades.
But, with leather jackets and heavy-duty denim as fundamental pieces, wearing biker styles in summer comes with its challenges. So, we put together a guide to show you how to bring that biker attitude to your summer outfits and stay cool at the same time.
What is Biker Style?
Inspired by 1950s motorcycle culture, biker style is an aesthetic with rebellion at its core. It was Marlon Brando’s devil-may-care character in The Wild One (1954) that defined this style and, ever since, it’s been a pillar of men’s fashion.
Black leather jackets, distressed denim jeans, and graphic t-shirts, are all biker fashion staples, combining to create an outfit that’s brimming with attitude.Read our blog to discover more about the history of biker styles.
Men's Biker Styles for Summer
The Jacket
The biker jacket is the most important part of your outfit. It’s the item that’ll bring your look together and make it feel like an authentic biker outfit.
Black leather jackets are the classic choice, instantly recognisable as a biker staple. However, not only are traditional leather jackets dark – meaning they absorb heat quickly – but they’re designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. This makes them excellent for windy days on the road, but not so great for handling the heat.
To adjust this biker style for the summer, swap it for a suede jacket in a lighter colour, like cream or beige. This way, your outfit will maintain that signature attitude whilst keeping you cool under the sun.
The Bottoms
For casual biker outfits, we often reach for denim jeans. Just like leather, jeans are sturdy and rugged, fitting with the lived-in feel of biker clothing.
However, when temperatures rise above 25 degrees, you’ll need trousers that are more suited for the summer – and that are equally as gritty.
Denim and cargo shorts fit the bill perfectly. Denim shorts bring the same rough-around-the-edges feel that traditional biker trousers do. Cargo shorts add a tough, utilitarian energy to the look.
Carpenter shorts can also work really well. Their workwear design and baggier cut keeps the outfit from feeling too polished, making them a perfect alternative for jeans.
Graphic Tees & Shirts
Another biker style essential, graphic t-shirts are a great way to adjust your look for the summer. These short-sleeved tops are lightweight and breathable, making them ideal for layering.
Show off your passion for the road with a bike-themed graphic. Whether you go for a vintage garage print or a skull motif, your t-shirt will keep that gritty aesthetic, even if it’s too warm for a jacket.
If you’re taking your outfit to a BBQ or beer garden, spruce things up with a printed shirt. This way, your biker style will keep its edge and it’ll still meet the dress code.
Chelsea Boots or Casual Trainers
Traditional riding boots are typically made of heavy-duty leather, which is not ideal for warm summer days. You’re going to want some shoes that are just as sturdy and hard-wearing, but that are light enough to keep your feet cool.
For an authentic look, wear a pair of Chelsea boots in leather or suede. These are a great alternative as they’re lighter on your feet but they’re just as tough as classic biker boots. Opt for tan or light brown tones as they’ll reflect heat better and they fit the mood of the season.
White canvas or leather trainers are the perfect choice for a more laidback summer-ready biker style.
With lightweight jackets, graphic t-shirts, and cargo shorts, our Unscripted collection features everything you need to create the ultimate biker style for summer.
Shop the collection today, and visit our Inspo & Ideas page for more men’s fashion guides and behind the scenes content.








