Let’s just say it: Maslow missed a big one. Right under food, water, and shelter, there should be leather jacket. Because honestly, what’s the point of survival if we’re not doing it in a killer outfit?
If you found your way to this article, chances are you already own a leather jacket—or three. And if you don’t yet, don’t worry. There’s still time to course-correct. Owning one is step one. Step two? Learning how to actually wear it.
We believe a leather jacket is a forever staple—classic, versatile, always cool. But we also know it can be weirdly hard to pull off. One wrong move and you’re suddenly starring in a middle school production of The Outsiders. But get it right? You’re main character material. We’re here to make sure it’s always the latter.
Here’s how we rock it—dressed down, dressed up, and all the way badass.
Dress It Down
Let’s start with the easiest win. A leather jacket and a T-shirt? Unstoppable duo. We go for looser fits to avoid that Greaser cosplay look. Plain tees, vintage band tees, or even a graphic tee—we’re in.
Another go-to for us? Hoodie underneath. Think “A-lister dodging cameras at the airport.” Oversized jacket, hoodie, baseball cap, sunglasses. Done. If hoodies aren’t your thing, try a henley. It’s chill, rugged, and layers beautifully.
Jeans are our trusty sidekick. But chinos can switch it up nicely—especially with brown leather bombers or racers. For shoes? Sneakers and loafers are always safe, but if we’re feeling adventurous, boots it is. Cowboy, Chelsea, or chukka—we’ve done them all.
Dress It Up
Yes, we dress our leather jackets up too. Don’t let anyone tell you they’re just casual wear.
One of our favorite combos: leather jacket, button-down shirt, and a tie. Any style of jacket works. With pleated trousers and a matching leather belt? Chef’s kiss. Skip the tie and go for a patterned shirt with dress pants, and you’re still golden.
We also love pairing leather with a soft, luxurious sweater. There’s something about that contrast—tough meets cozy—that always looks right. And naturally, we finish off with leather shoes. Oxfords, loafers, ankle boots—you can’t go wrong.
Lean Into the Leather
Sometimes we say forget all the rules and just go full leather energy.
Leather jackets have that rebel spirit. That rock star soul. When we lean into it, we think tight pants, heeled boots, ripped jeans, maybe even leather-on-leather if we’re feeling bold. Sunglasses? Always. Jewelry? Absolutely—rings, necklaces, statement belts. A scarf, even. It works.
Our rule here? Ask: “What would Lenny Kravitz wear?” Then do that.
Bottom line: A leather jacket isn’t just something we wear—it’s something we live in. It’s our go-to when we want to feel cool, confident, and unapologetically ourselves.
So let’s wear it proud. Let’s wear it often. Let’s wear it like we mean it.
And if you’re looking to add (or upgrade) your collection, here are some of our favorite picks:
- COS Leather Bomber Jacket – $590
- Thursday Boot Co. Racer Jacket – $349
- Banana Republic Moto Jacket – Now $420
- Todd Snyder Grant Jacket – $2,498
- Alexander McQueen Biker Jacket – $4,850
- Schott NYC Perfecto – $975
- Mango Faux Leather Jacket – $130
- Quince Washed Leather Bomber – $250
- Levi’s Faux Aviator Bomber – Now $95
Now let’s go out there and show the world how it’s done.