Leather jackets have been a fashion staple in men’s wardrobes for decades. Worn all over the world, leather jackets show no signs of ever going ‘out of fashion’, making them a safe option to reach for. Over the years, the fit of leather jackets has slightly adapted now that leather jackets are no longer worn solely for function.
Leather jackets are often an investment piece, so it’s important to get the fit right to ensure that it will see you through many wears. Ultimately, the fit you should get depends on your body type and how you plan on wearing the jacket. If you’re looking for something thick that’s going to keep you warm, then you might be better suited to a sheepskin leather flying jacket, which will have a different fit to a classic leather biker jacket.
At Hidepark we know that finding your ideal style and fit is important when choosing a leather jacket, which is why we have created this guide to help take you through what styles are available, how the jacket should fit and how you can measure your chest, arms and shoulders to achieve a timeless look.
CHOOSING A LEATHER JACKET STYLE
Leather jackets should all fit similarly, although slightly different styles may differ. When choosing a leather jacket you should consider sleeve length and any extra room you require when finding your style. These leather jackets are all perfect for those wanting to achieve a modern take on a classic look.
LEATHER BIKER JACKETS
The biker jacket is one of the most popular leather jacket styles and adds an instant edge to your outfit. Also known as the motorcycle jacket, this style is often credited as shooting to fame in the 1953 Marlon Brando film, The Wild One. Since then, the jacket has been sported by some of the most iconic film stars and performers in history.
LEATHER BOMBER JACKETS
Characterised by a cinched-in waistband, the leather bomber jacket is a versatile item that suits every body shape and is a great option for those wanting to broaden the appearance of their shoulders. Exude effortless style with a leather bomber jacket.
THE CLASSIC LEATHER JACKET
The classic leather jacket has a slightly more relaxed shape than a bomber jacket and does not usually include extra features such as buckles and belts like you may find on a biker jacket. A classic leather jacket is a good option for a more simple yet effective style.
How should a leather jacket fit?
Once you have chosen your preferred style of leather jacket you can start thinking about how you want to style it, and how it should fit. High-quality leather jackets expand slowly over time, so if you think you are between sizes you may need to choose the smaller option to ensure the fit remains right for you.
When you try the jacket on, you should be able to easily button or zip it up, even if you’re not going to wear the jacket with the zipper up. For a more structured fit, some men opt for having the jacket done up, but more commonly, to achieve a more relaxed look, try leaving the jacket open.
THE OVERSIZED JACKET LOOK
Many men decide to size up when it comes to buying their leather jacket, preferring the option of layering or a looser style. If you want a looser, oversized fit it is still important to find your perfect fit so that you can size up your jacket.
If choosing a larger jacket size you may find the sleeves are slightly longer and may fall below your wrists. If this is the case you can always push the sleeves up at your elbows to create a more casual leather jacket look.
LEATHER JACKETS WITH A SNUG FIT
Going for a jacket that’s too big can make your silhouette appear too boxy, so choosing a more fitted leather look may be more to your style. Real leather will stretch slightly, especially if it is worn consistently, so that gives you a little leeway if you feel like your jacket may be slightly too small.
When looking for a more fitted look, make sure your jacket fits quite snugly on your shoulders and across your chest, the sleeves should end just where your wrist bends, whilst sitting nicely where your belt loops are.
When fitting your leather jacket remember that it should fit like a second skin.
Zipped up or down?
When you try the jacket on, you should be able to easily button or zip it all the way up, even if you’re not going to wear the jacket with the zipper up. For a more structured fit, some men opt for having the jacket done up, but more commonly, to achieve a more relaxed look, try leaving the jacket open.
Taking your measurements
Finding your perfect fit can be simple as long as you have your measurements. Taking measurements only requires a tape measure but can help create a flawless silhouette when applied to your next leather jacket purchase.
1. CHEST MEASUREMENTS
To measure your chest, start by standing up straight and relaxing your arms. Wrap a measuring tape around the upper part of the chest, just below your armpits, and take the measurement.
2. SHOULDER WIDTH
The shoulders of your leather jacket should not be too tight or too baggy. Try on a jacket you already have that you feel is a nice snug fit on you. Then, take a tape measure and measure the width from the seam of the right shoulder to the seam of the left shoulder and write down the measurement.
If you have someone helping you take measurements, get them to place the tape measure across your back from one shoulder to the other.
3. JACKET LENGTH
To measure the ideal length of your leather jacket, place the tape measure at the top of your shoulder and then pull the tape measure down to the very top of your thigh, around where the bottom of your belt would sit and then take the measurement.
4. SLEEVE LENGTH
Correct sleeve length is vital when it comes to choosing a jacket that looks polished and sophisticated. Start by placing the end of the tape measure at the nape of your neck and run it down one side to just beneath your wrist bone.
Alternatively, you can measure the sleeve length on a jacket or shirt you already own.
DISCOVER QUALITY LEATHER JACKETS AT HIDEPARK
If you’re looking for a high-quality leather jacket as an investment piece that will stand the test of time, then look no further than our full collection at Hidepark.
Get in touch with our friendly team for more information about our leather jacket collection, or check out our measurement guide to ensure you find the perfect fit.