There are many downsides to the end of summer, but luckily there are just as many upsides to the beginning of fall. One of the best is that, when cooler temps hit, it’s time to slip into a snug leather jacket that offers total protection from the elements — and pretty much anything else that may come your way. Yes: September is the supreme moment when you get to break out the edgiest member of your wardrobe and channel your inner rebel.
Almost everyone, at least once in their life, has a leather jacket awakening. Usually, it’s inspired by one of the many icons who have immortalized the look throughout history. Heartthrob James Dean turned the military staple into the ultimate bad boy symbol in the 50s and he’s certainly not the only one who reinforced the rebellious side of the leather jacket’s reputation. Twenty years earlier, Amelia Earhart beat him to it when she made a major statement for gender equality flying solo across the Atlantic in her legendary aviator uniform.
These days, the Olsen twins and Kate Moss are probably among the first celebs that come to mind when you consider this practical, utilitarian piece. Donned by superstars from Madonna to Lady Gaga, the look never gets old. And while leather jackets do add a heavy dose of flat-out cool to any ensemble, they don’t necessarily have to shout “don’t mess with me” (though they’re capable of that and more). In fact, you can work these sleek items into sporty, professional and polished outfits alike.
There’s never a time when leather jackets aren’t fashionable, but they are definitely a fall must-have. And don’t forget that bona fide leather’s not a requirement, either. These days, there are lots of faux leather alternatives that don’t lose any points on the durability scale while also having the advantages of being eco-friendly and cost-effective.
No matter what it’s made of, unique details are key to finding the perfect piece for you. That could involve an unusual color, surprising embellishments, an avant-garde cut or something even more inventive. Get inspired by these 10 street style pros and discover how you can put a not-so-classic spin on a timeless leather jacket of your own.
Leather Jackets (Runway Manhattan)
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Jewel-Toned Gem
Dusky emerald green and large silver fastenings make blogger Fer Medina's East of Lost jacket a standout. A steel gray slip dress, a playful animal print handbag and sandals of sapphire velvet complete the ensemble.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Grace Lunn
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Added Attitude
A cropped moto jacket can add just the right amount of attitude to a polished outfit. The unexpectedly short length shows off what’s worn underneath — in this case, a printed dress fastened by a thin belt.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Mondadori
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All for Sport
Layer with a hoodie for extra protection from the elements. Straight-leg pants and Yamaha decals keep things minimalist and sporty.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Mondadori
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Softer Touches
Say yes to leather and lace. The delicate material softens Anouschka Kretschmar's monochrome look accented by bright, fuzzy pompoms on her sneakers.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Lena Juergensen
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Grunge Glam
Go all out with a hardcore item covered in studs and slogans. Model Adesuwa Aighewi amplifies the grunge vibe with black skinnies and chunky New Rock boots.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Zach Chase
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Studied Style
Aviator-style lapels and a decorative scarf help create this combo. While the pattern play is quite scholarly, flared hems and spiky ankle-strap heels make this outfit just a little too cool for school.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Grace Lunn
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Highs and Lows
Layering her snug moto jacket with a long sweater and rolling up the cuffs of her jeans, model Sasha Luss experiments with length. Her Saint Laurent bag punctuates the look with a pop of camo and fringe.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Valentina Ranieri
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Lovely in Leather
This ensemble proves that you can wear as much leather as you like and still get a very feminine result. Over-the-knee boots anchor this ruffled gingham dress topped by a coat sprinkled with floral motifs.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Lena Juergensen
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Mixture of Texture
Stylist Charlotte Gindreau teams her rough-hewn biker jacket with bell-bottoms for some retro-inspired fun. Playing with proportions, frayed edges accent the voluminous folds of her pants.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Lena Juergensen
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Wild Cherries
Blogger Chriselle Lim coordinates bright red accessories with quilted, cherry-toned leather. A wild leopard print dress centers the sharp ensemble.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Mondadori
