How To Style A Leather Jacket In A Feminine Way

From the beginning of time, there’s never been a sexier piece of outerwear than a bitchin’ leather jacket. Take film fashion, for example. Often used in films to symbolize a “coming into her own” transformation for key female characters, the leather jacket has been the statement piece of choice to announce the evolution. From Sandy (Olivia Newton-John) in Grease... 

...to Charlie (Kelly McGillis) in the original Top Gun...

...the donning of the leather jacket is the unofficial culmination of metamorphosis. Luckily for us, some of that magic must have rubbed off on the category as a whole, because every time you put one on, you feel like the baddest version of yourself. And that’s good.

But how to wear a leather jacket without looking like you just came off your annual pilgrimage to Sturgis, North Dakota? (Not that there’s anything wrong with that, bikers rule.) Because if you’re a lover of florals and frills like me, you still want to maintain some soft girl. Styling a leather jacket in a feminine way can be tricky. For example, pair it with a lot of other edgy pieces, and you’ll look like a walking advertisement for Harley Davidson. Which, if they’re paying you…

Styled with some girly touches, though, it lends just the right amount of nonconformist to your outfit. “Do your own research” energy. “Independent thinker” vibes. At the same time, it can balance out an overtly sweet look, which is also something you may want to avoid. When it comes to style, too much of a good thing can be a mistake. Paired with some thigh highs or a pleated skirt and bow, the iconic leather jacket transforms you into a feminine *but make it mysterious* force to be reckoned with. The subversive wardrobe staple you never knew you needed. 

Whether you’re trying to channel your inner fighter pilot or good girl turned baddie – while still feeling pretty – here’s how you might style the iconic fashion staple.

As “Off-Duty Ballerina”

We’ll never turn down a balletcore opportunity. Pair your leather jacket with a cute wrap sweater, mock neck, and miniskirt (don’t forget the very thick tights) for an “off-duty ballerina” look. Do it like French tastemaker Sabina Socol in pointy black flats, and you’ll pirouette all day, all the way to au café. Bonus points if the jacket also helps you stay on the still hot blazer trend. *Hailey Bieber wannabes*

With a Plain White Button-Up

Nothing says classic femininity like a plain white button-up. Add a trench, and you’ve got a timelessness to end all timelessnesses. Make it leather, and the fashion world has now imploded (too haute to handle). Pair it with a matching leather mini or your favorite straight-leg jeans, and you've got yourself a bonafide ‘fit. Sometimes, simplicity is just what the stylist ordered. 

With Shearling Fur Trims

Here’s the thing about leather. It doesn’t always feel amazing rubbing up against your bare skin. And the only thing worse than leather on bare skin in the summer, is leather on bare skin in the winter (truly frigid). Lovisa Barkman has cracked the code on staying cozy comfy while wearing leather, and it’s really no surprise that it involves fur. Pair your leather with a soft furry scarf, or, better yet, choose a jacket with shearling fur trim built in like Barkman, and you’ll have no problem sliding it on, no matter the weather. 

Atop Over-the-Knee Boots

The only thing better than a great leather jacket is a great leather jacket paired with unforgettable leather boots – especially if they’re as high as the sky. The dynamic duo is a winter combination as irresistible as steaming hot cocoa après ski. Wear it with pride, like Emelie Hjort, and await your entry into the Winter 2024 Fashion Hall of Fame (not a thing, but it should be). Feminine and fierce – just how we like it.

Avec Pleats and a Bow

The perfect pleated skirt, femininity is thy name. Nothing says “finals, right” like a hot girl jaunt to the corner coffee shop in your favorite pleated mini and classic leather bomber, courtesy of Rachel Noelle Clark. Accessorize with a sweet satin hair bow, and the competition for campus queen is effectively over. Is it winter break yet???

Plus a Whimsical Pop of Color

Neutrals are great, but have you tried…not that? Color makes the world go round. Pairing a pop of color with your muted leather jacket is a welcome addition, not only of color, but of joy and whimsy as well. (Julie Ferreri gets it.) Plus, you get the added benefit of being reminded of not winter (any other szn plz) while you’re at it. Win-win.

In Contrast to Your Highest Stiletto Boots

Looking to uplevel your leather and put it into a league of its own? Paola Ambre says sky high stilettos are the way. Make it the tall booted form, and the hot girl classic instantly elevates your outfit, allowing you to fit in equally well at a bar or a Michelin star. Fancy globetrotting is on the agenda.

With Some Geek Chic Loafers

Geeks have never not been cool, but now they’re positively prodigious. Geek chic is the way to go if you’re into leather and programming. Throw an oversized jacket over a button-up and sweater à la @linda.sza, relaxed fit all the way. A mini and tights keep it cute, while loafers with socks are a must. Geeks for madame president.

In Fire Engine Red

If there’s one thing a true fashionista has perfected, it’s the art of surprise. Why go with predictable when you can make a splash? You’ll never regret going bold, especially in the form of fire engine red leather. (No risk, no reward.) Reach Juny Breeze icon status with a matching lip and bag, and they’ll never stop talking about you. And you’ll never not be able to get a cab.

Closing Thoughts: Leather Bound

The life of a feminine fashionista is a complicated one. Sometimes, you’re all pink and lace, and sometimes, you’re on two wheels listening to Led Zeppelin. Dynamism is the name of the game, and unpredictability is the winning move. When it comes to top-shelf fashion, it’s the diversity that makes it fun. So whether it’s trimmed in fur or siren-level red, rock the leather jacket with the feminine frills – letting all sides of your personality show. As long as it’s coming from an authentic place, it will always feel genuine, which is really all that counts.

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