Types of Leather Jackets
FLIGHT JACKETS
Flight jackets, also known as bomber jackets, have a long history that dates back to the early days of aviation. The first flight jackets were made from leather and designed to keep pilots warm in the unheated cockpits of early aircraft.
In World War I, military pilots began wearing leather flight jackets, which soon became standard issue. The jackets were made from durable leather to protect the pilots from the cold and wind at high altitudes. They were also equipped with large pockets for maps and other gear, and sometimes featured fur collars for added warmth.
In the 1930s, the U.S. Army Air Corps began developing flight jackets made from sheepskin and horsehide. These jackets were even warmer than the earlier leather jackets and were better suited to the colder climates of high-altitude flying.
During World War II, the U.S. Army Air Forces standardized the Type A-2 leather flight jacket, which became an iconic symbol of American military aviation. The A-2 jacket was made from horsehide and featured a distinctive collar and knit cuffs and waistband.
After the war, flight jackets became popular with civilians as well as military personnel. The iconic bomber jacket design was adopted by many different subcultures, including rockers, punks, and skinheads, and has remained popular to this day.
In the decades since World War II, flight jackets have evolved with new materials and styles, but they remain an enduring symbol of aviation and military heritage.
LEATHER BLAZERS
Leather blazers are a relatively recent addition to the world of fashion, with the blazer itself originating in the 19th century. Blazers were originally a type of jacket worn by members of boating clubs in England, and were made of wool or flannel in the club's signature colors.
Leather blazers began to emerge in the 1960s, as leather jackets became popular among counterculture movements such as the Beatniks and hippies. These jackets were often customized with patches and studs, and were worn as a symbol of rebellion against authority.
In the 1970s, leather blazers became more mainstream and were worn by both men and women. They were often styled with wide lapels and a fitted silhouette, and were popular among disco-goers and fashion enthusiasts.
In the 1980s, leather blazers were a staple of the power dressing trend, worn by business executives as a symbol of success and authority. They were often paired with shoulder pads and high-waisted trousers for a bold, confident look.
Today, leather blazers are still popular and are worn by both men and women. They are available in a wide variety of styles, from classic fitted blazers to oversized, unstructured jackets. Leather blazers are often made from high-quality, supple leather and are designed to be both comfortable and stylish. They can be worn in a variety of settings, from the office to a night out on the town.
RACER JACKETS
Leather racer jackets, also known as cafe racer jackets, have a rich history dating back to the mid-20th century. The jackets were originally designed for motorcycle racers and were meant to be functional and practical, with a streamlined design that minimized wind resistance and allowed for ease of movement while riding.
The first leather racer jackets were introduced in the 1950s, and quickly gained popularity among motorcycle enthusiasts and rebellious youth who were looking for a distinctive and stylish look. The jackets were typically made from high-quality leather and featured a slim, fitted design with a diagonal front zipper and a low collar.
The term "cafe racer" comes from the British motorcycle subculture of the 1950s and 1960s, when young riders would modify their motorcycles to be faster and more nimble, and then race them from one cafe to another. The leather racer jacket was the perfect accompaniment to this lifestyle, providing protection and style for riders who were pushing the limits on their motorcycles.
In the 1970s, the leather racer jacket became a staple of the punk rock movement, worn by musicians and fans alike as a symbol of rebellion and nonconformity. The jacket was often customized with patches, studs, and other embellishments to reflect the wearer's personal style and identity.
Today, leather racer jackets remain a popular and iconic style, appreciated for their timeless design and versatility. They are available in a wide range of materials and styles, but the classic leather jacket with a streamlined design and diagonal front zipper remains the most popular and recognizable style. Leather racer jackets are often seen as a symbol of individuality and rebellion, and continue to be a favorite among motorcycle enthusiasts, fashion enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a distinctive and stylish outerwear option.
MOTO + BIKER JACKETS
Biker jackets, also known as motorcycle jackets, have a long history that dates back to the early days of motorcycle riding. The first motorcycle jackets were designed for practical reasons - to protect riders from the harsh elements of riding, as well as from injuries in case of accidents.
In the early 1900s, motorcycle jackets were typically made of horsehide leather and were designed to be functional rather than stylish. They had a snug fit and were often worn with matching leather pants and boots for protection.
During World War II, motorcycle jackets became popular among soldiers who rode motorcycles as part of their duties. The classic Perfecto biker jacket was introduced during this time and was made of horsehide leather with a diagonal front zipper, wide lapels, and a belted waist. The jacket was named after the Perfecto cigar, which was the favorite of the jacket's designer.
In the 1950s, biker jackets became popular among rebellious youth culture, and were often associated with motorcycle gangs and the "bad boy" image. The jacket was worn by icons such as James Dean in the film "Rebel Without a Cause," and Marlon Brando in "The Wild One."
In the 1960s and 1970s, biker jackets continued to be associated with counterculture movements, and were often decorated with patches and studs to reflect personal style and identity. During this time, leather jackets also became popular in mainstream fashion and were worn by celebrities and musicians.
Today, biker jackets are still popular and are worn by both motorcyclists and fashion enthusiasts. They are available in a wide variety of materials and styles, but the classic leather Perfecto jacket remains the most iconic and popular style. Other styles include denim jackets, suede jackets, and jackets made of synthetic materials.
PUFFER JACKETS
Leather puffer jackets, also known as quilted leather jackets, are a relatively recent addition to the world of fashion, having been introduced in the late 20th century.
The original puffer jacket was invented in the 1930s by Eddie Bauer, who was inspired by his own experiences with hypothermia while on a winter fishing trip. The jacket was filled with down feathers, which provided excellent insulation while still being lightweight and breathable.
In the 1970s, puffer jackets became popular among outdoor enthusiasts and athletes, who appreciated the jackets' warmth and durability. They were also popular among fashion-forward individuals, who appreciated the jackets' unique design and ability to make a statement.
In the 1980s and 1990s, leather puffer jackets began to emerge as a new twist on the classic design. The jackets were made from high-quality leather and featured the same quilted design as traditional puffer jackets, but with a more edgy and sophisticated aesthetic.
Leather puffer jackets quickly gained popularity among fashion enthusiasts, and have remained a popular style ever since. They are often seen as a versatile and stylish outerwear option that can be dressed up or down, and are available in a wide range of colors and styles to suit individual preferences.
Today, leather puffer jackets continue to be popular among both men and women, and are often seen on the runway and in fashion magazines. They are appreciated for their ability to provide warmth and protection while still being fashionable and on-trend.