The leather jacket has had a long and diverse history, and has become a timeless piece that every woman should own. If you want to add one to your wardrobe – or learn a little more about this fashion classic, you’ve come to the right place.

Below, I’ll share a quick history of the leather jacket, followed by outfit inspiration and some tips on buying the perfect one.

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A Brief History of the Leather Jacket

The leather jacket’s first iteration, as discussed by The Line, was a brown bomber style. Military aviators wore it as the sturdy, warm outer layer of their uniform. Soon after, the first motorcycle-style leather jacket was created for Harley Davidson. 

The piece soon evolved from its utilitarian military and motorcycle roots to its place as a rebellious style staple. 1950s Hollywood rebels like James Dean and Marlon Brando highlighted its edginess. Clad in their leather jackets, Brando and Dean appealed to 1950s youth and terrified 1950s parents. Then, following the rebels of the past, 1970s and ’80s punk rockers adopted the jacket for their own rebellion. 

Today leather jackets have the same benefits as they did in the past. They are practical yet punk rock, worn by rockers and models and college women alike. They’re the ticket to cool that keeps you warm. Although this fashion classic may intimidate, and may be intimidating to try, the leather jacket’s varied history shows that it is more versatile than you may have previously thought. 

2 Ways to Wear a Leather Jacket

Below, this classic fashion staple is styled in two different ways. This ASOS jacket is a little more expensive than your everyday piece, but it is still on the lower end for vegan-leather and leather jackets as a whole.