I had to at least give it a try...(Helmut Lang leather jacket)

I have been smitten with this Helmut Lang jacket ever since I spied it a couple of months ago and tried it on. I had a big Nordstrom Note, and this jacket has stuck in my brain like an earworm song, so I thought I'd go ahead and order it and give it a real try. I tried to get some of these pics a little lighter to show some detail.

If I keep this, it will replace a nice -- but orphaned -- black leather jacket from a couple of years ago that I like, but doesn't quite feel like me anymore. The old one has not proved to be very versatile, and I only have worn it maybe three times in two years. This jacket would be easier for me to work with and it fits my style better. I would sell the old black leather jacket (should get a decent price for it) and another old orphaned leather jacket, so even though this is not a NEED, I would clear a few things out of my wardrobe to welcome the arrival of the HL.

The darn thing is so buttery and comfortable (the old one was rather restricting so I never wore it for anything that lasted more than a few hours). I prefer it open and would probably wear it that way the vast majority of the time, but I don't mind how it looks when it's done up either. I suspect this would look good with dresses.

It just arrived tonight and I'm so tired I can't bear to try any stylings, but I did throw it on over the top I wore today just to get an idea. I am kind of in love with it, but don't want to be blind to any issues anyone else spots.

OK, I gotta go figure out what the heck I'm going to wear tomorrow that will get me through an 8-hour open studio day AND my 30-year high school reunion (!!!), but I'll check back to see what y'all think.

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12 years ago

pil

Veteran

Comfortable, feels like you, Nordstrom note and actually downsizing your closet by selling two pieces - what's not to love?

Have fun at your class reunion.

Caro in Oz

First impressios - I love it - it looks very you. Would love to see it styled to see how versatile it is before deciding.

ironkurtin

I'd like to see it over the kind of shirt you'd be wearing it with. My only hesitation is that it may be short. But it may not be!

Suz

(website)

It's a gorgeous jacket, Janet. I know you are on a leather jacket "ban" but there are always exceptions, and if you are selling a couple...well...

It looks very you. Would love to see it with some outfits, too, but my first impression is go for it!

Transcona Shannon

Well you've certainly justified the purchase with your logic and the style really suits you. Is it a cropped jacket? I do wonder if it is a bit short although that would be less obvious over a dress. Maybe try some other styling a when you're less tired to be sure?

nancylee

Comfort is king in my book, Janet. If you can afford it and this jacket is as super comfortable as you say.... I say it's a keeper.

MsLuna

You know how I feel about the combination of comfort and style together

GO FOR IT! It looks great on you!

I wish I can find an affordable jacket of that shape!

Janet

Well, it's in my bag today to possibly wear with my reunion outfit tonight. I may not be buying much at the Shoptoberfest meetup next weekend! I've been on a bit of a tear lately.

I guess my only real hesitation is the price. Part of me still balks at such expensive pieces even though we have the budget for it.

I haven't yet tried other stylings besides the one with the Asos cloud pattern dress that I posted in another thread, so I would like to experiment some more before committing to it. But that would mean not cutting the tags and wearing it tonight! I'm so torn...

MsKatieKat, I totally hear you about finding an affordable version -- it's harder than it seems it should be! I have looked high and low to see if there is another similar jacket that is not so pricey, but nothing so far grabs me like this one does. It's not just the style, but how good it feels on. It feels like this jacket "gets me."

I hear you, Janet! Yesterday I came across a white DKNY leather jacket and it "spoke" to me as well. The cut is similar but different. I wish I had $300 laying around (because I think that's affordable for a high quality leather jacket) but I had to continue rebuilding my wardrobe.

It's good to see another Helmut Lang fan though! I've been very much into their structural/drapey style combos lately.

NDMom

Active Member

Love it on you! I find that when I purchase just the "thing" it brings much joy and confidence to one's life. CPW will prove to be better in the long run if you end up wearing a beloved piece instead of one that's just so-so.... I would love that jacket too!

shedev

It looks really good on you Janet.

Sharon

That is a beautiful jacket! It looks great on you, you can't get it out of your head, it's comfortable and you can afford it. I say just do it!

Lyn D.

Looking Good!

Mochi

Very cool. Definitely you.

I'm really curious to hear what Angie has to say

Angie might be tsking me for breaking the jacket shopping ban.

In fairness to myself, this was ordered before I found the Belstaff. And it has resulted in some serious reconsidering of the orphaned jackets in my closet. Funny how when you find something that really speaks to you, your other items fall into sharp relief -- they either measure up to the same standard, or fall woefully short.

Ariadne

I may be very biased because my one and only beloved leather jacket (from Danier) is quite similar to this one, but I LOVE it on you. I vote keep!

I know what you mean about a new item making others fall into sharp relief. I think that's when you know you've got a keeper.

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