When designer Yves Saint Laurent sent a crocodile embossed leather jacket down the runway in 1960 as part of his collection for Dior, inspired by the free-spirited jazz-listening crowds of Paris’ Left Bank, it caused an outrage.
It wasn’t his use of leather that shocked the House’s clientele––in fact, women had been wearing leather long before that––but rather the fact that he dared to challenge the House’s design codes which up until that moment favored a more conservative aesthetic. Leather just wasn’t considered classy or refined enough to be part of an haute couture house’s offerings.
Needless to say, time has proved Saint Laurent right, and his vision, inspired by Paris’ youth, lives on. Even Dior is regularly showing leather jackets on the runway. This iconic piece has invaded not just the wardrobes of high street customers but it is also hanging in the closets of high-end clientele as well. Because it’s just that cool.
Related: The Best Women’s Outfits for Winter
For this spring, designers have introduced styles cut from soft suede in lighter shades. But if you favor a classic biker jacket with all its cool features such as zip cuffs, there are plenty of those out there, too.
Now check out the coolest leather jackets to add to your closet right now.
Madewell Ultimate Textured Leather Biker Jacket
Madewell’s classic moto-inspired jacket has a slim-fit silhouette but you can easily adjust the fit thanks to the buckled belt.
To buy: $525, net-a-porter.com
Ksubi A2B Textured Patent Leather Jacket
This jacket is definitely an eye-catcher. Cut from glossy patent leather, it has a boxy silhouette and button closure.
To buy: $600, net-a-porter.com
Ives Salomon Leather Biker Jacket
Yves Salomon’s version of the biker jacket comes with asymmetrical zip closure, quilted panels at the shoulders and cuffs, and elbow patches.
To buy: $1,600, net-porter.com
Stand Poly Suede Biker Jacket
What makes this jacket perfect for spring? The supple and light suede construction and beige color give off an undeniable vernal vibe.
To buy: $570, net-a-porter.com
Related: Spring Essentials Every Woman Should Have in Her Closet
Saint Laurent Denim Leather Jacket
Pair this stylish denim-inspired slim fit leather jacket with high-waisted jeans for the coolest off-duty look.
To buy: $4,790, ysl.com
Burberry Haddington Suede Trench Coat
Burberry has re-imagined its cult trench coat in brown suede and the result is ultra chic.
To buy: $4,890, nordstrom.com
Ganni Heavy Grain Leather Biker Jacket
The Scandinavian label’s black and white leather jacket features classic details such as zipped cuffs and pockets and asymmetrical closure.
To buy: $675, mytheresa.com
Belstaff Gangster Leather Jacket
Belstaff’s Ganster style dates back to the 1960s and this version, in hand-waxed white leather, oozes a definite vintage vibe.
To buy: $1,695, belstaff.com
Gucci Bow Leather Bomber Jacket
Gucci’s sporty bomber jacket comes accessorized with a beautiful feminine detail—an applique bow that also carries the brand’s logo.
To buy: $3,900, nordstrom.com
Ralph Lauren Lettie Lambskin Jacket
This 50s-inspired jacket proves leather can be just as elegant and classy as any other fabric. The impeccable tailoring and beautiful metallic gold hue elevate this piece to new fashion heights.
To buy: $3,990, ralphlauren.com
