Trends come and go, but timeless wardrobe staples—denim, crisp white tops, trench coats, and the best leather jackets—can last for years. Chosen well, these pieces have real staying power: a forever-chic quality you won’t find elsewhere in your closet. Designers are emphasizing wardrobes meant to last, prioritizing quality and craft over what’s in or out. The start of fall is always a smart time to invest for the long haul—and a leather jacket is a great place to start.
The Best Leather Jackets, According to Vogue:
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As for silhouette, the best leather jackets are tried-and-true: moto, bomber, and pared-back zip-ups are all safe bets. While these styles ebb and flow on the runways, a leather jacket remains a staple of the cool-girl aesthetic. Prada, in particular, has championed the moto jacket—their distressed styles have made an impact on and off the runway.
Brands like Acne Studios and Saint Laurent offer permanent pieces season after season—core styles that shape their brand DNA. Take good care of them and the leather will look even better with age. If you want something lasting with a twist, there are plenty of ways to wear it; lately, we’re loving close-fitting cropped styles, leather blazers, and longline coats.
Shop our favorite leather jackets, ahead.
The Minimalist
The latest crop of sleek, minimal leather jackets feel plucked from Gwyneth Paltrow in the 90s, in the best possible way. Look for options with less hardware, no distressing, and a straightforward shape. These wardrobe chameleons can easily transition from a casual day look to an evening out.
The Bomber
A vintage-inspired bomber silhouette is classic wardrobe staple. The style is perfect for wearing into the cooler months, as it can easily be layered over cozy knits. Saint Laurent’s version is the ultimate inspiration.
The Biker
As evidenced by cool-girl brands like Acne Studios and Prada, you can never go wrong with a classic biker jacket. The style is a favorite of the model-off-duty set, like Hailey Bieber and Gigi Hadid, and adds an element of ease to any outfit.
The Blazer
For a subversive twist on office wear, with a hint of 90s attitude, try adding a leather blazer to your roster this fall. We love it paired with simple separates, like a maxi skirt or slim trousers. It’s also a foolproof addition to your classic jeans and tee combo.
The Distressed
Mrs. Miuccia is pushing the distressed leather jacket in her collections for Prada and Miu Miu, and therefore we must obey. These worn-in styles add edge and ease, and will continue to get softer and better with age.
The Longline
Another 90s throwback, the leather longline coat is having a resurgence this fall. Despite the Matrix connotations, it’s a smart addition to any wardrobe. Throw yours over any outfit (even sweats!) to feel instantly pulled together.
The Shearling
Once we transition to winter, a good shearling jacket will be your new go-to. This style combines the cool-factor of a classic leather with the warmth of a winter coat. We love Lemaire’s blouson version, and Altuzarra’s oversized style.
The Cropped and Fitted
Cropped and fitted leather jackets feel very off-the-moment, but they’re bound to stay in your rotation for years to come. They pair perfectly with sleek dresses and high-rise silhouettes, adding a bit of definition to the waist.
New Shapes
Designers are always iterating on the classics, and this season they’ve put their twist on leather. From Co’s leather hoodie style, to Alaïa’s sleek, peplum shape, new options for the adventurous are abundant.