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How to Wear a Leather Jacket

A leather jacket is arguably one of the most versatile pieces of clothing. Perfect for any age and any gender, a leather jacket is a true must-have for everybody's wardrobe. 

Whether you’ve got a classic black or brown leather jacket that matches any outfit, or you’ve chosen a red leather jacket to add a pop of colour to your wardrobe, it’s easy to create an effortlessly cool, chic and edgy ensemble. 

To help you style yours, the Joe Browns team have come up with their top tips for how to wear a leather jacket.

Dress Up Your Sportswear


If you’re heading out the house to run errands, collect the kids or pick up coffee, throw on a leather jacket over your casual wear to create a stylish look in seconds. Whether you pair it with leggings and a hoodie or tracksuit bottoms and a sweatshirt, you’ll dress up your outfit with ease.

Men and women alike can sport this athleisure leather look and look instantly cool. However, when planning this sort of look, we recommend pairing with a lightweight hoodie to ensure your leather jacket doesn't look overly bulky.

If your leather jacket is a neutral colour like black or brown, some bright sportswear is a great way to add an interesting edge to a classic piece. While a bold-coloured leather jacket can be toned down by wearing a neutral colour underneath, such as black or grey. All that’s left to do is pop on your favourite trainers and you’ll be ready to go!

Green With Envy Leather JacketGreen With Envy Leather Jacket

Add Edge To Your Everyday Dress


Take your dresses through the seasons with a leather jacket. Go from spring to summer and autumn and winter with the same dress, all by making tweaks so that it’s weather and temperature-appropriate. Adding boots instead of trainers or sandals, throw on tights instead of bare legs, and add a leather jacket to wear your dress all year round. 

A leather jacket is also a great way to add a bit of edge to a sweet, girly summer dress. Choosing a black leather jacket that has bold metal hard hardware and wearing it over a pastel summer dress will create the ultimate rock-chic look.

Soft And Sweet Suede JacketSoft And Sweet Suede Jacket

Style It Out With A Monochrome Look


Monochrome is always in season and it’s a great option for both men and women. Whether you're creating an all black outfit, or choosing other monochrome alternatives such as grey and white, you will instantly look chic and put together. It’s also a great way to wear a leather jacket that doesn’t look too bold or make you feel out of your comfort zone. 

Simply wear black jeans and a simple black v-neck t-shirt with your ever-loved leather jacket draped over your shoulders. Alternatively, to add a bit of spice, try wearing a graphic tee for that rocker-styled look!

Luna Lattice Leather JacketLuna Lattice Leather Jacket

Choose Your Denim


Leather jackets paired with denim are a great combo. Whether it’s jeans, skirts or even a denim shirt, your leather jacket will easily style up an everyday denim outfit. Whether you’re heading into the office for a day at work or for drinks with friends, you can easily dress up your casual denim for a chic and fabulous ensemble.

Ladies, look fierce with a pair of fabulous heels or go casual with a pair of white trainers. Men can easily create the perfect leather jacket outfit that can go from day to night time with blue denim jeans and boots.

Good Times Suede JacketGood Times Suede Jacket

Add a Pop of Colour


A leather jacket is a great way to add a pop of colour to a monochrome outfit. Whether you want to go bold and bright with a red leather jacket or sweet with a pastel pink or cream, it’s perfect for adding a little something extra to your outfit. 

While you may be tempted to go classic with black or brown, if you’re thinking of going bold, opt for a colour that features heavily in your wardrobe. If it doesn’t compliment your clothes, you may risk not wearing it and any leather jacket is far too special for that to happen!

Wear a bold red leather jacket with a polka dot skirt for a unique retro look. Alternatively throw on your favourite black figure-hugging jeans and wear a pair of red shoes to match your jacket. For men, a bright leather jacket pairs perfectly with a classic shirt.

Full Throttle Leather JacketFull Throttle Leather Jacket

Integrate Biker Style


A biker style jacket is a classic look that’s been around for decades. One of the first uses for a leather jacket was for motoring and today, that look is still as popular. In fact, the original biker jacket is almost exactly the same as the styles we see on the high street today. 

Biker boots for men and women are all the rage, and are the perfect way to recreate that biker look. All you need to do is choose a pair of black ripped skinny jeans to really finish off the whole look!

On Tour Leather JacketOn Tour Leather Jacket

Update Your Work Look


It goes without saying that a leather jacket is an extremely versatile piece of clothing that can be worn with almost any outfit, so why not wear it to update your work wardrobe? Whether your dress code is smart-casual or you wear a white shirt, tie and trousers on a daily basis, a leather jacket is a great way to switch it up. 

Your leather jacket will effortlessly add that cool casual edge to your work day attire, making the perfect outfit for going for a couple of drinks after work on an evening. Remove your tie and undo the top couple of buttons on your shirt to make it even more casual.

https://www.joebrowns.co.uk/the-marty-leather-jacket-wl047#colour=751https://www.joebrowns.co.uk/the-marty-leather-jacket-wl047#colour=751

How Should Your Leather Jacket Fit?


While styling is crucial, it’s essential that your leather jacket fits you properly. To ensure yours is just right, here are a few top tips to get the best fit out of a leather jacket:

  • Because leathers tend to be more fitted than other styles, the seam of the shoulder should always line up with your shoulder, otherwise it may feel uncomfortable to wear
  • The sleeves should be tight to your arms but not restrict your movement
  • The length is often about personal preference but the general rule is that your leather jacket should meet the waistband of your trousers or skirt
Burner Leather JacketBurner Leather Jacket

How To Treat A Leather Jacket?


Whether you’re trying to bring an old leather back to life or you’re thinking of buying a new one, caring for it correctly will ensure you can wear your leather jacket for years to come.

When you’re looking to clean your leather jacket, alway ensure you abide by the washing instructions so you don’t cause any harm. The best way to remove dirt or dust is simply with a damp cloth and then let your jacket air dry — never iron or leave crumbled. 

Once dried, there are several leather conditioners on the market that will keep your leather jacket soft and looking brand new. Simply apply and make sure you leave it to air dry.

Burner Biker Leather JacketBurner Biker Leather Jacket

Find out more about the history of the leather jacket, and share how you'll be styling yours on Facebook or Instagram.