There are so many ways to wear a leather jacket. In this post, I’m focusing on the five ways that most women can work into their wardrobes right now.
A leather jacket, or a faux leather jacket, is such a versatile piece of clothing. It can go with your dresses, jeans, dress pants, and even activewear.
I’ve also found a leather jacket with ample pockets to be a great alternative to carrying a handbag.
Read on to see my favorite ways to wear a leather jacket. And if you’re ready to shop, click here for some great jackets.
#1 Go Classic with a Pair of Jeans
First, try a leather jacket and a pair of jeans. It’s a classic outfit for a reason.
Bodysuit: Good American / Necklace: Nordstrom / Earrings: Argento Vivo, Similar Here / Watch: Baume & Mercier / Jacket: Similar by Blank NYC / Jeans: MOTHER / Shoes: Steve Madden
Currently, this is one of my go-to outfit formulas. A bodysuit + jeans + a leather jacket? It never fails me. Another bonus? Depending on your mood and activity, this outfit formula can work with almost any shoe choice.
Pair it with heels or a dressy sandal for a night out. Add fashion sneakers to keep things more casual. To level up the edginess, a pair of classic combat boots works fabulously.
#2 Pair a Leather Jacket With a Feminine dress
Balance out your look by contrasting an ultra-feminine piece with a biker jacket.
Dress: All Saints, Similar Here / Necklace: Nordstrom / Earrings: Argento Vivo, Similar Here / Watch: Baume & Mercier / Bag: Frame, Similar Here / Jacket: Similar by Blank NYC /Shoes: Steve Madden
A leather jacket adds edge to a very feminine look. Crop jackets work best with longer dresses, but if the proportions aren’t exactly right you can rest it on your shoulders. That’s exactly what I did here since the longer slip dress calls for a shorter jacket.
#3 Use it as a handbag!
A leather jacket has enough pockets to store your basics without ruining the lines of your outfit.
I admit I didn’t quite get this for a while. Sure, I’d seen countless advertisements with a model just kind of holding a jacket off to the side. Admittedly, I thought this was dumb.
That was until I tried it! Stashing your key, wallet, and phone in a leather jacket is easy.
If it’s hot outside and cold inside (hello aggressive summer AC!), just carry it with you. With all the pockets, your personal items stay secure and you don’t have to worry about carrying a handbag.
#4 Wear a Leather Jacket with Activewear
Yes! You can wear your leather jacket with leggings or joggers.
As comfortable clothing continues to be popular, this is a great way to upgrade a casual outfit. You can see a great example of this look over here on Pinterest.
#5 Pair a Leather Jacket With an LBD
Finally, my last tip is another classic outfit formula. If you want to revive a basic black dress, top it off with a leather jacket.
Pairing a leather jacket with any basic dress instantly makes an outfit look more intentional. This can work for both dressy and casual purposes, depending on the shoes and accessories you choose.
Shop Leather Jackets
Note that a leather jacket doesn’t need to be black! I have them in blue and burgundy too. Look at your wardrobe and determine which color would work best for you.
AllSaints Dalby Biker Jacket
This is the best under $500 leather jacket on the market. It’s so nice that this is available with bold gold and silver hardware.
Amor Vert Deadwood Joan Jacket
If you feel black is not flattering or too much for daytime, try a leather jacket in a blue shade. You’ll be surprised how versatile it is. As a sustainable style choice, this cropped biker jacket is made of recycled leather from vintage garments.
BLANKNYC Faux Leather Moto Jacket
Seeking a faux leather jacket? This style from Blank NYC looks and feels great and it’s under $150.
LaMarque Kelsey Leather Jacket
LaMarque makes great quality leather jackets. I truly can’t get enough of them. They run true to size, but if you prefer to layer sweaters underneath size up.
Vince Classic Leather Jacket
If you have the budget, a Vince leather jacket will not disappoint. This jacket is buttery soft and the satin interior lining makes it incredibly comfortable.
Final Thoughts on How to Wear a Leather Jacket
The right leather jacket can be a wardrobe workhorse. It can make a basic jeans and tee ensemble look more stylish. A leather jacket can tone down the saccharine sweetness of a feminine dress. It can also elevate activewear looks so they work better outside the gym.
Your leather jacket can even work as a handbag alternative. If you’re looking for more ways to wear your or need help shopping for one, I can help.
Truly, is there anything a leather jacket can’t do?!
Professional Photos by Dayley Photography
