For her recent birthday my little sister asked for a black leather jacket. My mum immediately declared that she had an authentic biker jacket in the attic (from her succinct motorbike/Hell’s Angels phase) but I advised that whilst perfect for actual riding, this would be far too cumbersome to wear on a day-to-day basis. So instead I offered to do some online research for the ultimate black leather jacket. Most people dream of the perfect wear-with-anything biker jacket and once you have this piece in your wardrobe I am assured that you will wear little else. Whether thrown over a pretty dress, or added to skinny jeans and a tee, a classic biker adds a dash of Kate Moss magic to a look. I would like to add that I do not say this from personal experience. I myself have never been able to pull off a leather jacket, particularly a black one, and look far more bad Brando than rock chick Chrissy Hynde whenever I have attempted the look.
Kate Moss is famous for topping her outfits with a black biker (Top image by: Dave Bennett)
Whilst we all dream of having the funds to buy a buttersoft piece from Balmain, Alexander Wang or Isabel Marant, my budget on this occasion was set at around £100. Starting out, my only real criteria was that it was 100% leather (no plastic PV or pleather) and that it had interesting detailing and a good silhouette. Whilst my search is by no means exhaustive, I think it may be very helpful for anyone also looking for a well-priced leather jacket this autumn. Also, unless you object for ethical reasons, do ensure that it is 100% real leather. Although this means the price is higher, the fabric will wear well and last far longer than any cheaper imitation. All the below are 100% leather versions. I have also included some with a higher price point in case your budget is bigger. Here we go…
Biker # 1 – Zara £89.99 (Sizes XS – L)
Biker # 2 – Zara £99.99 (Sizes XS – XL)
Biker # 3 – ASOS £100 (Sizes 4-18)
Biker # 4 – Mango £119.99 (Sizes XS – XL)
Biker # 5 – Mango £119.99 (Sizes XS – XL)
Biker # 6 – Oasis £158 (Sizes XS – L)
Biker # 7 – Warehouse Alexa £180 (Sizes 6-18)
Biker # 8 – Whistles cropped Cara £295 (Sizes 4-16)
Biker # 9 – All Saints Dare with removable collar £358 (Sizes 2-14)
Biker # 10 – A curveball in pale pink suede from Dorothy Perkins £120 (Sizes 6-20)
And in case you wanted to know which jacket was eventually chosen and subsequently bought it was the ASOS Ultimate Biker Jacket at £100. I have been informed that the present was ‘a definite hit with the birthday girl, particularly the detailing on the arms’. These words come straight from the horse’s mouth. It also smelt amazing. Happy shopping!
Stylitz 