Get ready to be schooled on the ultimate symbol of cool: the leather jacket.
Calling all rebels, badasses, and anyone who wants to look like one – we’re talking about the ultimate symbol of cool: the leather jacket. From their humble beginnings as pilot’s attire to their status as a cultural icon, leather jackets have a rich history and by the looks of current fashion trends, a rather rich future too.
History of Leather Jackets
It may be hard to believe, but there was a time when leather jackets were not fashion runway staples – quite far from it in fact. These now grunge-looking pieces of clothing were once crafted for a purely utilitarian purpose; to keep high-altitude flying pilots warm in face of harsh weather conditions.
Ever heard of the term bomber jacket? Whilst you may now associate the name with the iconic jackets that soared back into mainstream fashion in the last few years, you might be surprised to know that their name comes from leather jackets once crafted for WWI US Army pilots. Lined with sheepskin and specially made for the uninsulated aircraft of the time, leather was an integral part of the military uniform.
But leather appearances in Paris Fashion Week owe their popularity to a bloke names Irving Schott. Schott popularised leather jackets as civilian attire, mainly geared towards bikers. They underwent some style modifications from the ones previously used in the military, such as the replacement of buttons for a more modern zipper, or a curated fit to grant their wearers more mobility. You’d think such engineering would equate to a hefty price tag, but you would be wrong; Schott’s leather jackets sold for an unimpressive $5.50.
Its most prominent launch into the mainstream came in the 1950s, and as anything from that period of time, gained popularity through film and music. Rebel icons such as James Dean and Elvis Presley adopted the jackets as personal uniforms and popular films such as The Wild One or Rebel Without a Cause helped bring the garments closer to the general public. They were symbols of masculinity, as leather jackets had a longstanding history of shaping the dress code for predominantly male professions.
As history entered the 1960s rebellious spirit, leather jackets followed suit. The counterculture 1960s took leather under their wing, making it part of the everyday accessory and symbol for those looking to defy authority, but it truly became part of the female fashion discourse in the 80s and 90s, mainly thanks to Joan Jett.
Buying Your Leather Jacket
Nowadays, leather jackets come in a variety of shapes and colours, from classic brown to sleek black, and from long to short styles, adorned to minimalist designs. We see them on the runways, in people’s closets, and even in vintage stores. However, as much as we love the real deal, fake leather dupes have been taking control of the market, which is why knowing where to buy your garments makes a massive difference.
There are retailers galore, but none offer the diversity, quality and scrupulosity of Angel Jackets. Known for replicating the jackets you see on some of your favorite shows, this relatively new retailer does one thing you’re otherwise going to struggle to find; both quality and affordability. Whether you are looking for brown leather jackets or the more classical black ones, you’ll find ample variety in Angel Jacket’s online store. Even best is their option for customizing your purchase, adding patches and logos to your garment in true biker style.
We all know, once you’ve owned a genuine leather jacket, you’ll never want to go back to the fake stuff.