This post shows you how to style a leather jacket!
Have you ever wanted to wear a cute clothing item but you changed your mind because it wasn’t exactly your fashion style?
Between celebrities, online influencers, and the industry itself, fashion has become a rigid set of rules and of trends that come and go.
It seems finding an aesthetic that is acceptable and authentically you is a never-ending battle.
The moment you find something to add to your wardrobe, the fashion gods are yelling at you about how so-and-so piece is too old or a certain style of jacket is only for one group.
After years of trying to people please a society that never saw me as an individual in the first place, I’ve decided to step out of my comfort zone with a piece I’ve never felt confident to wear, until now.
The leather jacket!
Whether I’m layering with more feminine pieces or putting together an edgy outfit, these leather jacket outfit ideas will inspire you to elevate your wardrobe with unique pieces that stand the test of time!
Understanding the Basics of Shopping for a Leather Jacket
Although there are many varieties of leather jacket that range from rocker glam to chic bold colors, it’s important to that your first jacket not only be more “classic” to go with other elements in your wardrobe, but also high-quality!
Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Start with black. A simple one or two buttoned black jacket will take you anywhere you want to go whether it’s to the office or for evening cocktails with the girls.
Is it soft? You want something comfortable and pliable to move in, not hard constructed. Buttery soft leather will look amazing no matter where you go.
Do the scratch test. Use the back of your fingernail to scratch the leather carefully in an inconspicuous place. If it bounces back easily, the quality is good!
Be realistic. Just because a leather jacket is buttery soft doesn’t mean it will last forever which is why I always recommend thrifting!
In the following sections, I’ll give practical tips for wearing a leather jacket with clothes you already have in your closet to inspire your own outfits!
How to Style a Leather Jacket: 5 Outfit Ideas
Now that we’ve established how to shop for a leather jacket, let’s go over how to style one to elevate your wardrobe.
These tips will help bring the best out of your wardrobe to not only transform the way you look in clothes, but change your attitude in how you feel!
#1 Leather Jacket Layered Over a Basic Dress
Dresses are a delicate, classic, and feminine option to pair with a more hard and edgier leather jacket. It balances the look and can elevate any basic piece.
If you like the look, I recommend that the secondary purchase should be something in brown, possibly cropped and fitted.
Easy Styling Tips:
- Wear a brightly-patterned dress or bold color to make the jacket and dress pop.
- For black dresses, change up the texture to avoid looking like an abyss of black. Think metallics, sheer, velvet, lace.
Money-Saving Tip
- Find leather jackets at thrift stores in the men sections. Oversized jackets look really cute on petite frames.
You may also enjoy:
#2 Leather Jacket Paired With Metallic Sweater and Skirt
This sweater reminds me of Blanche from on the Golden Girls and I’m obsessed with it. The glittery sparkle is perfect against a canvas of black.
Black and gold naturally look like they go together to create a luxurious and timeless look.
I would wear this to a holiday work event or for dinner out during winter.
- Play with different textures to bring out the details that make your outfit look more luxe.
- Go with knee high leather boots and add a scarf for perfect balance.
You May Also Like:
#3 Go Classic With Jeans and White Lace Cami
Enhance the traditional outfit of a t-shirt and jeans with a cami against leather and jeans.
This works for petite girls who can wear tight and fitted on top like a cami with wide leg jeans on the bottom.
It’s an effortlessly chic look that can be dressed up and dressed down easily.
Styling Tips:
- For a more high fashion look, wear a bold red lip with no other facial make-up.
- Easily switch up the look to be more casual with white sneakers or upgrade with skinny jeans, a loose t-shirt and heels.
#4 Leather Jacket with Full Black Monochrome Outfit
Monochrome is the go-to aesthetic for every scenario.
Black can fit into any mold including sophistication, grief and depression, work professional, or goth punk.
It is a universal color for all no matter how you express yourself!
- To avoid looking too much like one aesthetic, use jewelry, make-up, and accessories to personalize.
- Mix different textures is essential to prevent your outfit falling flat.
You May Also Like: How to All Black Outfits Without Being Boring
#5 Leather Jacket Layered Over Hoodie Sweatshirt
Layering is the secret to every stylish outfit. Throw your jacket over a hooded sweatshirt for a chic and casual look that is still comfortable.
On the bottom, you can go with a thick pair of leggings and ankle boots.
Try to keep the hoodie more on the thin side to prevent illusions of extra bulk on top.
- Elevate loungewear. If you’re super into the loungewear look, throw your jacket on a matching lux set for that effortless I-woke-up-like-this look.
