Moto jackets are a Must

About the Author

Angie is co-founder of YLF and its resident fashion stylist.

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Outfits Ensembles Trends Advice

Moto jackets are a Must

— by Angie

on January 14, 2010

This is a bold statement and one I do not make lightly: A leather, faux leather, cotton or knit biker jacket, or biker-inspired jacket is a wardrobe must.

This item is right up there with the denim jacket because it has the magical ability to transform an outfit from drab to hip. Instant edge. Instant verve. Instant sass. I can’t think of an item that doesn’t look good with a moto jacket. Wear it over a cocktail gown, a graphic T and everything in-between.

Like military jackets, biker jackets are not trendy items that will date. They are timeless in their own right and deserve a permanent place in your wardrobe. I’ve been sporting a biker jacket for 25 years and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. I have 25 year old clients and 69 year old clients in moto jackets so age is of no consequence because it’s how you wear the item that counts.

It’s also all about finding a biker jacket that’s appropriate FOR YOU. You are not bound to black leather with loads of zipper detailing. Choose a classic style in a colour sans zippers if that’s what tickles your fancy. Maybe you’d prefer one with ruffles. Either way, this item is a versatile, timeless piece. Are you sporting a moto-jacket yet? If not, why not.

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55 comments · Add a comment

Sarah

(website)

Veteran

Couldn’t agree more. I find for me that they are a great contrast to my super feminine blouses and dresses. I wear my black cropped jacket a lot, and plan to use my taupe linen one a lot this spring and summer.

January 14, 2010 at 8:10 am

Phoebe

Veteran

I own three leather moto jackets: black, white and brown. I´ve been searching for a sleeveless moto jacket this season, but could only find faux leather ones, which I don´t like (a moto jacket has to smell like a garage;)).
My favorite look is the jacket with a classic pencil skirt and boots or heels.
The only disadvantage is that they feel so heavy and are therefore not as comfortable as a woven jacket.
Still, I could buy a lot more of them…..

January 14, 2010 at 8:17 am

rae

Yay, this means I don’t have to rush to finish the jacket I’ve been working on altering (for a year now). I was afraid it’d be OUT after all of the ones we saw this season…

January 14, 2010 at 8:17 am

san

Yes I am wearing mine, but I did need Angie to tell me it is OK for me to wear one at my age. I had a picture in my mind of a James Dean movie character, but that has changed now.
I agree that the faux leather is looking very good these days too.

January 14, 2010 at 8:19 am

Joy

Veteran

When I first found YLF, moto jackets were being discussed. I got a black cotton with lots of zippers and a cream leather/knit to try, but it took awhile to get the courage to wear them much. Now there’s no turning back. I especially love the Calson brown leather NAS jacket to wear with everything. My next moto jacket purchase will be a grey when I find the right one. Thank you for the assurance that this look will stay around.

January 14, 2010 at 8:20 am

RoseandJoan

Veteran

I don’t have a moto jacket, I have an updated black leather blouson jacket which functions in the same way. I really like moto jackets but think I will be more tempted to try this type of jacket once the hysteria has passed and they become a little less mainstream. Does that sound crazy?

I’m finding the white/ cream versions more appealing than black at present. I’m just wishing my time away daydreaming about spring again.

January 14, 2010 at 8:21 am

Queen Mum

Veteran

I have loved my 2 moto jackets this season- they are not hard core moto IMO, but I have loved their versatility. Yesterday I was just working around the house in jeans and a knit shirt…I needed to go to the grocery store so threw on my black pleather jacket ($10 from Ross) and a scarf and I felt instantly fab. My other one is cream colored and I feel quite sassy in it as well. What a fun wardrobe item!

January 14, 2010 at 8:28 am

Cricket

If I had the funds to buy a black one *and* a second one, I’d get this one http://www.sundancecatalog.com/CATEGORY/Women.html Its really pretty!

January 14, 2010 at 8:30 am

Becky

Veteran

I just don’t consider this look to be “me.” I think it looks great on others, but I haven’t seen any moto jackets that appealed to me enough to try.

January 14, 2010 at 8:50 am

Kristine

Veteran

I have two moto jackets, and the ultimate accessory, a motorcycle to go with them! I’ve been riding for a few years and actually bought my first jacket for practicality, but it’s a bonus that it’s stylish too. If I wasn’t a rider I would prefer faux leather, but it’s a no-no on a bike due to safety. I have one in nylon and one in black leather.

January 14, 2010 at 8:57 am

Laura

(website)

Veteran

Agreed! I am loving moto vests almost as much. They are wonderful in the winter months because you don’t have the bulk of a moto jacket under your winter coat, but they still give that same edge. And, moto vests in the summer with a sleeveless top make you look rocker chic without being too overheated.

January 14, 2010 at 8:57 am

Sally McGraw

(website)

Active Member

Hmmm, I’m not sure I agree that this is a piece every woman would want in her wardrobe. Don’t get me wrong, I adore mine and wear it constantly! But even the more toned-down versions might feel a little edgy for certain tastes.

January 14, 2010 at 9:04 am

marianne

Active Member

I *still* don’t have one. I just don’t see myself in leather (or pleather) for some reason. I keep trying them on, but don’t feel quite right. I like the look though, so maybe I should try looking for a fabric version – that blue jacket looks fantastic!

January 14, 2010 at 9:13 am

chewyspaghetti

Veteran

I had already decided that when I reach my weight loss goal, this is the first “big” purchase that I am going to make- a leather moto jacket. This just confirms that it is a good choice. In the meantime, I am adding a casual version (probably knit) to my spring wishlist.

January 14, 2010 at 9:24 am

Christina F.

Active Member

I have two lightweight leather moto jackets, one black and one white, very similar to the white one pictured here minus the zippers and snaps. I’ve always loved mine because they are so clean and tailored so they can be dressed up or down. However, the edgier look is beginning to catch my eye and I’m loving the black one pictured. I agree that this style has “staying” power and just about anyone can wear one. BTW, my sister just adores the Lane Bryant moto featured in the YLF store. Thank you, Angie, for including all sizes and shapes in your recommendations!

January 14, 2010 at 9:27 am

Shana

Angie, I agree, I think a moto or moto-inspired jacket can be a timeless classic. I have had a black nylon one in my closet for 6 years that is similar to the ivory one in the post (no shoulder detailing on mine!). The styling is biker inspired with a banded collar and subdued zipper details and I like the fact that it’s not leather. I don’t look like I’ve just stepped off my Harley but it’s still a little edgy and it fits seamlessly with my “modern classic look.” I also purchased a more trendy ivory knit one that looks like jacket number one. To be honest, though I have owned it for several months now, I haven’t worn it yet but I look forward to trying it out in the spring.

January 14, 2010 at 9:29 am

Alison

I have a vintage black leather one. I wore it to death when I was 12 – 17 years old. But, it’s big and now I think it looks funny. I’d love to have a newer closer to the body type one. I wonder if anyone makes them with knit or stretchy fabric panels at the sides so you can move easily in it. That’s what I loved about the vintage one, no restriction of movement. I do have one in cobalt blue corduroy, but I don’t think it’s fitted enough. Maybe I can get that one altered to fit more snug.

What do you guys think about vintage moto jackets? to big and bulky?

January 14, 2010 at 9:34 am

Kristine

Veteran

Alison, I think it depends on the jacket. Mine is vintage but it’s actually fairly cropped and close fitting.

January 14, 2010 at 9:42 am

Lucy

I am so glad to see this post! I got a faux leather jacket from Express in ivory (they call it “powder”) a couple of weeks ago, but was uncertain whether I could pull off something this edgy. I took the plunge today and wore it with a black and ivory striped t-neck, black pants and black BC booties. I feel pretty fab, and now I feel even better after reading your post!
Thank you, Angie!
Here’s the jacket by the way:
http://www.express.com/catalog.....egoryId=33
It looks like they don’t have the ivory on-line, but they have that color and taupe in the store.

January 14, 2010 at 9:49 am

Tricia

Veteran

I wanted one of these in high school and never got one – now I’m craving one again! I’m wondering about the knit versions – are there any that can be worn more like a blazer than like outerwear? Even the fabric versions I’ve seen are lined and would be really hot indoors.

January 14, 2010 at 9:52 am

kimana517

(website)

Active Member

I love them! Took me forever to find one I really liked, and then I paid $30 for it (and it’s not even real leather, so for me that is a BIG purchase for a non-shoe item), but it’s an awesome white moto jacket that looks like real leather and works with everything! I’d still love to find a black one though.

January 14, 2010 at 9:57 am

Alison

Hey thanks Kristine. That gives me hope. Maybe someday I’ll be able to find one at a thrift store. Mine is a men’s jacket I’m sure. I’ll have to keep my eyes peeled.

January 14, 2010 at 9:58 am

Lisette

(website)

Active Member

I love them and while I think everybody’s wardrobe could use a little edge I disagree that they are for everyone. I am built like a fireplug and unfortunately that shape is really not kind to me. I had a vintage heavy duty one that I loved but after looking at some pictures of me in it enough I let it go to one of my tall willowy friends. I looked like Meatloaf in Rocky Horror -not a pretty picture!

January 14, 2010 at 10:13 am

Jill

(website)

Oh no! I’m not! But I must! I’ve always loved this look but haven’t felt the NEED to have one until this post. I’m on the hunt!

January 14, 2010 at 10:42 am

SusanH

I found a white ruffle cotton moto jacket I really liked at White House Black Market, but I passed because I’m always hesitant to buy things I see as trends. Guess I’m going to have to get it after all!

January 14, 2010 at 10:52 am

Tanya

Veteran

I absolutely adore moto jackets, always have, even long before I found YLF. I have a black leather one that is 6-7 years old. Last year my collection grew a lot: I got grey leather one, teal pleather, and two sleeveless ones – blush pleather and black denim. I plan to keep working on it this year – I’d like a cream leather one with silver hardware and a casual knitted one in a fun color (spotted already at UO).

I think that this is a truly timeless item and I will never grow tired of wearing mine.

January 14, 2010 at 11:16 am

mamark

I do not own one. I am not generally interested in jackets that stop at the waist because I am tall and short waisted – all legs – so any jacket that stops at the waist looks like it’s just too small for me. I also feel more comfortable in longer jackets because I’m somewhat bottom heavy.

January 14, 2010 at 11:23 am

All Women Stalker

(website)

I actually just came from a concert where I wore my motorcycle jacket for the first time. Needless to say, I was the hippest at the event. Haha. I kid. But the jacket was the only thing I needed to fit in the punk/hardcore crowd.

January 14, 2010 at 11:35 am

Laura

(website)

I’d say ‘casual, interesting jacket’ is a go-to piece in almost everyone’s wardrobe, but not the moto jacket specifically, as it doesn’t work with everyone’s style. I’ve not even seen many for sale in the stores I’ve visited. I must be shopping in the wrong places.

They don’t really grab me, and I don’t know why. I appreciate edginess, but there’s something about the silhouette – they’ve either got a high neck, which I dislike the feel of and think doesn’t look good on my figure, or they’re styled like your first picture, which only looks good when fastened, not when open.

I think I’ll leave them to my friends who actually have motorcycles.

January 14, 2010 at 12:06 pm

marianna

Veteran

I have three moto jackets now — all purchased thanks to YLF! I have a leather brown one that is more like outerwear, a pleather cream one and the denim one pictured above. I love them all!

January 14, 2010 at 12:14 pm

Margaret

I’ve learned so much from you since I’ve come across your web site. you are so inspiring and generous with your knowledge. I like these styles on older women when pulled together with the right elements. My preference as I age is to keep my look sporty and fun and causual and these moto jackets as well as denim and military keep the look tailored as well. perfect!

January 14, 2010 at 12:23 pm

taylor

Ditto…What Sarah said I love the tough edge against a feminine blouse or dress.

January 14, 2010 at 12:28 pm

Kari

(website)

Well, you know that I’ve been wearing my two moto jackets (either denim or white pleather) once a week at least. To add to Sal’s comment, I actually *like* them because I feel like they have pushed my classic, “ladylike” wardrobe in a slightly edgier direction.
I dream about getting a kelly green pleather moto jacket, but on a more practical/useful note, I am seriously thinking that I may eventually budget for a chestnut/light brown cropped leather jacket. (Maybe at next year’s NAS if an item like that is available.) I don’t need it now, but it would be a nice “goal” piece.

January 14, 2010 at 12:32 pm

kingadraakon

i have a moto jacket in orange (yes, the colour looks exactly like the fruit!). i bought it second hand and have been wearing it for 6 years or so. i love it, it always lifts my mood. it is totally a staple piece. i wish i owned more clothing items that are so well worth the investment…

January 14, 2010 at 12:37 pm

Inge

Agreed! 150%!! I’ve always loved moto jackets, long before I found YLF. I just feel extra fab and sassy and pulled together when I wear them. Happy too, maybe that sounds silly, but it’s true.
I’m still incredibly glad I got a cream pleather jacket last year, I never want to be without a cream moto jacket ever again. There’s something very stylish about it.
Oh, and I’m also digging the non-traditional colours (like teal, purple, green, yellow…).

Hopefully there will be a few more in my future;-)

January 14, 2010 at 12:37 pm

Rachel

I’m not, because my butt is always one of the first things to get cold, so a jacket that doesn’t cover it seems useless to me! They are cute, though.

January 14, 2010 at 12:51 pm

Cricket

I *just* realized that you said a moto jacket need not be in just leather, but in any other fabric. I guess if I read your first couple of lines I’d have noticed that. Since I couldn’t afford a leather one (and agree with a PP that a leather one is better than pleather … that smell, that feel), then a cotton or linen (like Sarah mentioned) jacket would be a fine piece to wear. It’s a lightbulb moment, realizing now that I *can* afford this after all!

January 14, 2010 at 1:42 pm

Mary

I love the look (always have) but can’t seem to find the right one! I am *very* short waisted and every single one I try on hits me in a frumpy spot. I don’t get to shop other than online very much and this is one item I feel I need to see on before buying. Maybe I need to go measure my cropped denim jacket and see how long that is? It is just the right length with skirts and dresses.

Actually I’d like to find not one but two moto jackets: a black or chestnut brown leather/pleather one and a taupe/bone cotton or twill one for spring and summer. A girl can dream!

January 14, 2010 at 1:59 pm

Lena

I’ve wanted a leather moto jacket for the longest time. I love how it looks with skirts and dresses, I love how it makes me feel. I hesitated because (1) I already had a 3/4 length leather jacket (the look is very different), and (2) it was hard to find a jacket short enough for my torso. Finally last year I couldn’t stand it anymore, and I found a perfect cheeky black leather moto at NAS. It’s exactly what was needed to fill a big hole in my wardrobe. I love it so much I would like to find a woven version for warmer weather: black or another more unusual color, and maybe one with a more open collar.

January 14, 2010 at 2:07 pm

Cedar

I struggle with this style of jacket (and demin, too). I have such a long torso that I can never find a proper fit. I also really hate high necks. A long time back I saw a very cute moto jacket with a sotr of “blazer” style opening (lapels, not a high neck), but I can’t remember where.

January 14, 2010 at 2:25 pm

The Budget Babe

(website)

Member

I can’t see certain friends wearing a moto jacket but for me it’s back to being a must-have!

January 14, 2010 at 3:14 pm

Beth

Veteran

Cricket, that blue jacket is absolutely beautiful. I wore a moto jacket all through high school, but haven’t had one since. I’m undecided whether to take another look. I think I’ll research it some more!

BTW, what is NAS?

January 14, 2010 at 3:34 pm

Kyle

Great post! I’ve been eyeing this one: http://piperlime.gap.com/brows.....=765135002

January 14, 2010 at 4:31 pm

Maya

Veteran

How timely. I just wore mine today under my coat as an extra layer. I keep seeing more and more moto jackets that I want and love and have no idea how much is too much. Currently I have 2 and feel like 3 is the maximum amount that seems reasonable, so my next one must be chosen wisely!

Marianne, my moto jackets are both cotton. You don’t need to wear leather or faux leather to get hte moto styling.

January 14, 2010 at 5:34 pm

fumblinthru

Active Member

I actually have a vintage Motorcycle jacket in my Halloween Costume collection. I can’t imagine wearing it around …. it was a very expensive jacket that I received years ago from a friend. It looks exactly like this …
http://www.polyvore.com/…/thing?id=5441101

I’ve always thought of it as a Halloween prop … it is in good shape and fits very well – very fitted. What on earth would I wer it with …. I’m 39 and don’t want to look like I’m trying to be 20. Is this “too” moto to be current?

January 14, 2010 at 6:17 pm

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Thrilled to hear the positive reaction to moto jackets. For those of you who are not convinced it’s a wardrobe must, I’m sticking to my guns. It’s a question of finding the right combination of colour, style, fabric and edge. Once you’ve found it, I’m willing to bet that you won’t look back. It might be a question of opting for more of a bomber style instead of the classic moto silhouette.

I currently have three biker jackets in full rotation:

o A cheeky cropped black style with lots of silver zippers
o A longer, classic deep burgundy style with copper hardware
o An avant-garde black belted version with crinkle patent insets

Hopelessly devoted to each and every one

January 14, 2010 at 6:30 pm

Michelle

(website)

Veteran

I am absolutely in love with the brown caslon leather moto jacket Angie convinced me to purchase at the NAS (Beth, that stands for Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and it’s a banner event here on YLF). I am now champing at the bit to acquire a white or cream leather jacket, though now I’m wondering if a cotton fabrication may be more versatile with that colour. I sense a thread coming on. For me the understated moto details of my current jacket are ideal, as they fit my modern classic style and personality to a t. That jacket also never fails to elicit complements, so it makes me feel fab every time I sport it. Lately I’ve been creating outfits specifically so I can trot it out!

January 14, 2010 at 6:39 pm

Iris

So Angie, if I have a denim moto jacket, does that mean I hit two birds with one nonthreatening stone?

January 14, 2010 at 7:40 pm

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Sure, Iris. You have absolutely got two looks in one item that way. But no harm in getting more moto jackets!

Fumblinthru, feel free to post a picture on our forum so that we can help you out with that question.

January 14, 2010 at 8:10 pm

Mac

I loooove the look of moto jacket on other people but as a longwaisted, tall pear, I have a tough time finding boxy, short-waisted jackets that aren’t unflattering on me. However, I have confidence that I will eventually find a moto jacket that works on me since Angie has taught me that most styles can work on most people.

January 14, 2010 at 9:06 pm

Reneeb

Veteran

I never thought i would wear one. But i found a white one at white house black market with ruffles and i feel in love with the look. I don’t known if i can wear it now it looks a little llike spring to me but i might be wrong. What do you think SusanH?

January 14, 2010 at 11:02 pm

Francesca

I LOVE my black distressed moto jacket bought at NAS. What makes it, is the knitted inset on the inside sleeve so that the arms fit snugly and sleeves can be pushed up without bulk.

However, I have a rather (ahem) flat rear end so while the look is very flattering from the front, the cropped length emphasizes my lack of posterior assets. Angie, can you recommend looks with the moto jacket worn with pants that don’t call attention to my flat behind? I guess I can try it with a dress but that’s not my style for everyday wear.

I usually wear the jacket with low rise skinny jeans, a tee or thin sweater and either flat equestrian-style boots or ballet flats. Haven’t tried it with wider-leg or boot-cut pants or trousers because it would seem to lose its edginess with that pairing.

January 15, 2010 at 5:42 pm

Frye comfortable, casual boots are forever fab

(website)

[…] into bold statements this year. First, moto jackets are a must and now Fryes. Every gal needs a pair of fabulous Frye boots, and once again, I don’t make these […]

January 20, 2010 at 7:44 am

janestigee

Member

I agree the moto could be a really versatile item and intend to start shopping. What are the body considerations for the band versus the lapel-style collar?

One place I shopped was an actual biker store – the “real” jackets are nice, but bulky and also cut long in the sleeves for coverage while reaching out for the handlebars. To my eye, the too-long sleeves were too dumpy for fashion.

January 21, 2010 at 11:14 am

Day 26: Gray dress – you make the call!! « Secrets of a Secondhand Shopaholic

(website)

[…] 2: With a brown leather “moto” jacket. A moto jacket, according to You Look Fab, is a wardrobe must. I am wearing my brown equestrian-style brown boots, textured gray tights, and the pink […]

February 28, 2010 at 3:26 pm

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