A Case for the Red Leather Jacket

At some point in your life, you’re going to own a biker jacket. It is a magnetic item that you’re probably even contemplating purchasing now, don’t lie.

The jacket represents a uniting factor between women & pop culture, women & luxury, women & their independence. One of the first editorial sightings of the biker jacket was in 1979 Vogue, photographed by Eric Boman. Since then, the iconic outerwear has been taken in extraordinary directions. And while most stay loyal to the original aesthetic, I’ve seen biker jackets that are yellow polka-dotted, bright fuchsia metallic, or blue lace with a shearling fur collar… Overdose.

Therefore, as most things in life, there needs to be a balance. A feeling of respect for the original Grease Cool Rider while also paying homage to the modern expression. My answer: The Red Leather Jacket. It’s common knowledge that a biker jacket immediately gives you an urban edge. But that extra red flare fastens on a hip element so strong you’re flung into outer space – in a good kind of untouchable way! It’s the ultimate cool, bad, rebellious appeal that screams “I’m just your regular cigarette smoking, drug inhaling college dropout, but I’m still stylish AF”. (Kids, stay in school).

Speaking of drugs, #truelife, sometimes when I see a sharpie marker I pop the cap off and give it a little huff. NO, I am not an addict, but can you imagine what I do when there is new leather within a 10m radius!? Go ahead, create the image. I’m a sucker for that sh*t. It smells like the outdoors, bacon, caramelized onions, mint, chemical, scent of a musty man, and a new relationship, all at once… Never thought you’d see all those words in one sentence didja? And I bet you can agree with at least one of those aromas. So get excited. Your nose is about to go on a wild and nostalgic ride.

Of course, here at Utilita State, I’ll always recommend buying and investing in a jacket that suits you, your frame, and your personality. But as the title suggests, my post has tunnel vision. And I’m encouraging you to follow down this path, with my hand holding yours, to explore a style that might push the boundaries of your professional wardrobe. I’ve personally owned more than 5 different leather jackets in my life, but this style tops them all, by far. Think of an icon, a movie character, a person you saw on the interwebs, then channel that look with conviction. If we live in a time where presidential nominees can grab kitties, then you can grab a red leather jacket and ROCK IT.

Wearing:

Jacket / Zara
Top / Farfetch
Skirt / Topshop
Boots / Base London