BEST LEATHER JACKET BRANDS FOR MEN AND WOMEN
Some looks never go out of style, and certain materials are sturdy enough to stand the test of time. Leather jackets check both boxes.
Fast fashion and micro trends have many craving long-lasting pieces in classic styles, so it’s no surprise that leather jackets remain an it-piece. Respected fashion houses use premium materials and expert artistry to make heirloom pieces that can be cherished for years.
And the options are more diverse than ever. Depending on the style, a designer leather jacket can evoke edgy punk-rock energy, rugged outdoor aesthetics, or sophisticated elegance. We’ll break down various leather jacket styles, the statement they make, and the best designer brands for men and women.
TYPES OF LEATHER JACKETS
When choosing a leather jacket, consider it a long-term investment in your wardrobe—something you’ll never tire of wearing. Timeless silhouettes can be reimagined with new ensembles each season.
Leather jackets come in many forms: leather motos, suede bikers, faux-leather blazers, and shearling bomber jackets, among others. Here are some popular examples and the styles they’re suited to:
Leather biker jackets
Also known as a motorcycle or moto jacket, this style reigns supreme among leather jacket designs. Biker jackets feature a cropped design with either a diagonal or straight zip, a belt, and snap-down lapels. The distinct cut was originally donned by motorcyclists for protection from cold winds and rough roads. Since then, it’s become a symbol of freedom and rebellion, adopted by rockstars and nonconformists alike.
Leather trench coats
This chic outerwear style merges the timeless silhouette of the classic trench coat with provocative leather. Slouchy shoulders and a cinched waist belt lend leather trench coats an air of mystery without sacrificing comfort—the perfect outerwear for a chilly night out.
Aviator jackets
Designed initially as a flight jacket for pilots, the aviator is synonymous with warmth and reliability. This style features a sheepskin or sherpa collar and lining, appealing to those with an eye for vintage flair and a desire for coziness.
Leather bomber jackets
Like the aviator jacket, the bomber has a storied history in aerial reconnaissance. Customarily crafted from nylon, bombers feature loose-fitting sleeves and drop shoulders, granting the wearer unrivaled mobility. Leather renditions of this style typically come in soft suede, providing long-lasting comfort.
Leather blazers
A leather blazer makes for a sophisticated statement piece. Wear one at your next after-work event to add a daring edge to polished attire. It may be worn open or closed to complement a variety of looks. Pair with matching leather pants, casual denim, refined slacks, or even a cocktail dress, and finish the look with bold heels.
Leather puffer jackets
Quilted leather puffer jackets are reimagined versions of the ever-popular down-filled neon styles but with a rebellious twist. This design is guaranteed to keep you warm on treks through icy weather. Go with button collars, durable zippers, accent belts, or other stylish details to accentuate the look.
Vegan leather jackets
A faux-leather alternative captures the look while staying leather-free. Designer brands have crafted bikers, bombers, trench coats, and more using synthetic and natural materials, so those who don’t wear animal products still have a luxurious option.
FIVE LEATHER JACKET BRANDS FOR WOMEN
Leather is having a moment, but it’s more than just trendy: Leather jackets are a classic staple and a wardrobe mainstay. These labels have designed women’s leather jackets with impeccable style in mind.
Saint Laurent
Saint Laurent Belted Crop Leather Aviator Jacket
Established in 1961, Saint Laurent is known as the first couture house to launch a luxury ready-to-wear collection. Today, the brand offers sophisticated womenswear distinguished by daring, youthful designs and exquisite materials. The label presents exceptional leather jackets in classic shapes that exude simple sophistication.
Nanushka
Founded in 2006 by Sandra Sandor, Nanushka embraces femininity to inspire effortless confidence through timeless designs. The label offers outerwear in genuine leather and printed faux leather, creating elegant pieces that transcend trends. Within the collection, snake-print faux leather trench coats, blazers, puffers, and moto jackets offer a wide variety of options for styling.
Loewe
Loewe Deconstructed Shearling Jacket
Loewe was established in 1846 by a collective of leatherworkers, making it one of the world’s preeminent houses for creating goods from this durable material. The label merges high-quality heritage craftsmanship with contemporary elements. Its leather jacket styles—as well as other designs consisting of supple lambskin and inventive deconstructed shearling—remain a favorite among fashion editors and influencers alike.
KHAITE
KHAITE Faza Lamb Shearling Crop Jacket
Archetypal American sportswear was a driving inspiration when Catherine Holstein launched KHAITE, her women’s ready-to-wear label, in 2016. The brand sets itself apart by unifying contrasting elements—feminine and masculine, softness and strength. Each cut is clean and precise, accented by impeccable detailing and tasteful embellishments. The assortment includes lamb shearling cropped jackets, oversized bombers, and classic collared leather coats.
rag & bone
Timeless design, masterful craftsmanship, and constant innovation have cemented rag & bone as a go-to brand for exquisite and durable garments. The leather jacket lineup features versatile designs that blend seamlessly into any wardrobe. The brand’s popular faux-leather blazers and radical multi-zipper motos are sleek and sophisticated.
FIVE LEATHER JACKET BRANDS FOR MEN
Leather jackets are foundational in menswear, but luxury brands find ways to make them dashing and contemporary without sacrificing retro appeal.
TOM FORD
After exploding onto the scene in 2005, TOM FORD swiftly became one of the most recognizable luxury brands of the 21st century. A black leather jacket is an irreplaceable icon, and TOM FORD’s catalog features fitted styles and polished bombers sure to turn heads.
PURPLE
PURPLE Men’s Leather Trucker Jacket
PURPLE embodies vintage-inspired aesthetics with innovative streetwear, resulting in utilitarian designs that never forsake style. Make a daring statement with a classic leather jacket in striking galaxy blue. The smooth lambskin material and rugged trucker silhouette work in harmony to deliver a handsomely modern fit.
Vince
Every man’s closet benefits from a sophisticated suede bomber, and Vince’s renditions are especially noteworthy. The traditional baseball collar and ribbed hem perfectly frame a clean, casual look. When the leaves begin to change, this style makes for a classically comfy shield against chilly fall weather.
Rodd & Gunn
Rodd & Gunn Men’s Arrowtown Shearling Collar Leather Jacket
Rodd & Gunn creates premium menswear, leather luggage, and accessories inspired by the picturesque landscape of New Zealand, where the brand is based. Its leather jacket collection features hard-wearing bombers and field jackets that will stand up to the elements for years to come.
Diesel
Take a break from the usual with an innovative design from Diesel. The label takes a contemporary approach to a tried-and-true garment, using eye-catching colors, soft fabrics, and off-beat detailing to bring a signature youthfulness to its leather jackets. Distressed lambskin finishes and vibrant paint splatters are just a few details that ensure you stand out from the crowd.
REBEL WITH STYLE
The right jacket and accessories can make any outfit fresh and exciting. For assistance finding the best designer items to suit your unique aesthetic, book a one-on-one in-store or virtual appointment with a Neiman Marcus style advisor to get outfit recommendations and styling tips.