The History & Origins of The Leather Jacket

So where has the cultural and iconic status associated with leather jackets originated from?

Some believe Cowboys in the old west of the Americas were among the first to popularize leather garments because of its durable as well as practical qualities.

 However the beginning of the 20^th century saw the era of daredevil motorcycle racing. These adrenaline junkies recognized and regarded leather as the best way to protect themselves in one of the most dangerous sports of that epoch.

The military’s use of leather jackets during the First and Second World War is well documented and commonly thought to be the origin of the ‘modern day’ leather jacket. Brown leather flight jackets (aka flying jackets), or bomber jackets, were lined with sheepskin and worn by pilots and aviators as part of an overall uniform to protect these air acrobats from the hazardous elements encountered at such high altitudes in which they operated.

Full-length leather coats were also very orthodox amongst Russian Bolsheviks and other Russian revolutionaries in the early 20^th century. The ruthless winters of Russia were uninhabitable without such attire and it’s easy to see why these garments were so immensely cherished for their warmth comfort and durability.

The Evolution of the Leather Jacket

The desire for leather garments has been prevalent throughout time and will continue for many decades yet. Although the use for leather has changed over time certainly what have not changed are the unique and exceedingly appealing qualities that leather gives us such a, warm, soft, comfortable, malleable and durable article.

Today’s iconic and cultural status surrounding the leather jacket has descended from 20^th century idols like World War aviators and pilots who modeled bomber jackets for protection and warmth to movie and film stars who sported leather jackets to epitomize cool.

It will come as no surprise that film has played its part in increasing our desire for the leather jacket, the earliest most well known actor and film that have contributed to the stylization of the classic leather biker jacket is Marlon Brando in the film The Wild One in 1953, closely followed by James Dean in the film Rebel Without a Cause in 1955. One could say that the cool enigmatic male with strength and ‘je ne sai quoi’ (aka X factor) image was iconicised then, however it was not considered the apparel of a gentlemen. The 70’s saw the creation of Starsky & Hutch with their semi-glazed and shinny leather finishes epitomizing a cool and sexy look symbolized from that era. The Indiana Jones character extends another dimension with the classic Harrington leather jacket that’s pushes towards a more sturdy and dependable hero characterization. More recent films such as Blade and Matrix (Wesley Snipes and Keanu Reeves) have brought the concept of a men’s full length leather coat into greater acceptance as the attire for a cool and enigmatic man that is selfless in his agenda to restore social balance and security.

It is evident that the leather has increasingly come into its own from the 70”s onwards, and even more so over the last few of years in particular and its popularity has increased dramatically as has demand. A number of celebrities have been seen sporting gorgeous designer leather jackets from the likes of Mulberry, Gucci, Dolce & Gabana and Versace and all the top designers have integrated leather jackets as part of their fashion collections. Interestingly, black is still the most adorned colour followed by subdued tans, browns, greens, stone and also eye-catching reds. The good news is, that a stylish and top quality leather jacket are also available from more affordable manufacturers and suppliers and the quality invariably can differ dramatically. Leather blazers and biker jackets are now considered smart wear and individual and distinctive designs are very much coveted.

Sheepskin Jackets for Men Only or Women Also?

A lot of sheepskin flying jackets are unisex which men’s the styles are generic for both men and women. Really well made quality sheepskin jackets for women do have a different cut as they are tailored to a ladies narrower waist and shoulders. Sheepskin leather jackets are designed to be worn in a comfort to loose fit fashion , believe me you typically do not want these to be tight fitting as you will otherwise find it more cumbersome to wear. A really top quality sheepskin jacket is made from lamsbkin which is just so comfortable to wear due to the sheer lightweight. Proper flying jackest are made from heavier sheepskin which is still comfortable men’s wear.

Your First Leather Jacket?

Choosing a leather jacket for the first time might send you into a flurry of questions and decisions. First and foremost is, which style to opt for? You really need to ask yourself whether you want it for everyday wear, weekend wear or just for going out or even a combination. Once you know the answer to this, then you need to think about the style that you really fancy. If you are really unsure ask yourself whether you prefer a zip or button jacket, if you like both then do you want a classic style that will blend with smart and casual wear in an understated yet elegant fashion, or do you want an eye catching stand out from the crowd or just glamorous chic. Which ever it is searching online leather jacket website will certainly give you a plethora of design and styles to think about and enable you to pin point what appeals, or at the very least what you don't like.

Jackets with smooth and classic contoured lines will always be very wearable and go with almost anything whether smart, casual, relaxed or comfort wear. You really can't go wrong with these. Such jackets do come in a choice of zip and button formats. Fashion style and designer leather jackets tend to be in more striking designs that have lots of detail whether a number of pockets zips, epaulettes, high level seam detailing, detailed buttons and or zips or just an unusual styling that sets it apart from the rest. True designer leather jackets are also available in classic designs and they usually have some unusual detailing whilst still very subtle does set it apart from the regular style. A designer brand should offer a high quality product from the leather feel and softness through to the build quality and cut. However, there are a number of what we can call pseudo designer brands that have use low grade materials and poor attention to a quality finish yet the price is higher that lower end brands which offer the same quality. In this instance you should be aware that you are definitely paying for the label. There are a number of fashion brands and styles that offer glamorous and chic styles that look top quality but a cheaper price tag which does not hit the pocket as hard. It all is down to your budget, and whether you are willing to put the work in to hunt for that bargain or great buy. Be careful, you could be hunting forever if you are being unrealistic on price, if you find a leather jacket you like at the quality you want and a price that is affordable, then buy it, don't delay or you may regret it.

The leather quality generally, tends to go hand in hand with the price. So for top dollar you would expect exceptional quality. If the leather is paper thin, and I do mean paper thin. This should not be confused with the difference in thickness between a nappa leather and cow / buffalo hide which is a bit like comparing thick glass to a fine crystal. Both serve their purpose well but are very different in quality, price and fineness , glamour and distinction. Cow hide (aka buffalo hide) is great for extended durability and will take a quite a bit of breaking in as it is quite stiff. But a lot of people want this and if you are of a sturdy and strong construction and don't mind the extra weight on your back then hide it is for you. If you want a jacket that fits like a glove out of the box and is so comfortable you barely know you have got it on, then nappa is what you want.

For autumn and winter wear if you have the money, then a genuine sheepskin or silky soft lambskin is to die for, especially the Toscana lambskins. These are very practical and desirable coats and jackets and will be invaluable in the depths of a cold winter or freezing temperatures. They also look great on and are unbeatable. The sheepskin pilot jackets where created in World War I as most air planes did not have enclosed cockpits and the pilots needed to be kept warm in all weather without incumberance when flying. Toscanas are derived from sheep and lambs that are bread in snowy mountain climates generally and their wool is very long and has beautiful tones through it and is opulently soft and beautiful.

Nubuck leather is soft to the touch and has a lovely matt finish to it making it ideal for those that doe not like the very light sheen that some might describe as slightly shiny. Nubuck is produced by lightly milling the top surface of the leather whilst at the tannery. Suede is also a matt finish but with a nap finish and is produced by splitting the original animal skin between its outer and inner scetions, and is thus thinner than general leather.

Choosing a new jacket, coat or piece of clothing to some of us is a very enjoyable activity, hence the 21st Century term "retail therapy" we love buying new stuff for ourselves and enjoy looking good and feeling even better. Believe it or not, being a miser or seldom spending any money on yourself is not good for the soul. It is important to strike a balance and not spend money that you simply don't have.

Leather Biker Jackets a Fashion Favorite

Most people when they hear the words “leather jacket” conjure up an image of a motorbike and a biker leather jacket. Whilst the biker jacket has evolved greatly since its creation is now a serious fashion trend. Many celebrities, models and in particular pop and rock stars have contributed to the iconic styling of the designer fashion versions marketed by many brands and stores.

Some still misconceive the leather jacket to be a heavy, bulky and restrictive article of clothing. This is far from the case. Nappa leather, which is used to craft most of today's leather apparel is luxuriously soft, supple and moulds itself to the shape of your body and becoming ever more dignified with age.

Most serious fashionistas will own at least one leather jacket if not a few in a multitude of colours ranging from black to brown, red, white and tan being the most popular. Any colour you can think of has been created in leather crafted by acclaimed as well as undiscovered designers.

It’s easy to understand why designers are eternally seduced by leather’s charm. Its versatility is unmatched by many other materials used even today. It can be dyed to virtually any colour, cut to fit any shape, shelter us from the harsh elements of nature whilst still maintaining its natural breathable qualities unlike other many synthetic fibres used today.

Leather Sheepskins An Unrivaled Wardrobe Addition

Shearling sheepskins have become increasingly popular over the past few years not only for their timeless designs but also because it has become increasingly difficult to find modern coats and jackets that can match the cosiness of a good sheepskin. What’s more is that a good quality leather sheepskin can easily last you a decade or more and only become more dignified with age. British winters have become increasingly merciless and synthetic fibres used by many high street labels simply don’t have the insulating qualities of natural wools. Although they may seem a bit pricey one thing that is for certain is that they are great value for money, especially with today’s online prices. Synthetic materials usually feel itchy against the skin and are extraordinarily overpriced for what they are. So when you go to buy you’re winter coat this year ask yourself, “am I really getting my money’s worth?”

The Eternal Biker Jacket Lives On

There are such a great variety of styles and designs that when it comes to leather biker jackets almost anything goes. This could be one of the reasons why the biker jacket is a timeless fashion classic that will not fade.
We can broadly categorise the fashion leather biker jacket , that is to say the biker style jacket worn as an item of clothing rather than protection) into traditional, classic and designer themes.
The traditional biker jacket has an off centre zip creating the choice of two styles, triangular lapels when unzip or part zipped, or conversely a smooth finished front when sipped to the neck - cleverly combing two styles in one almost. Now the collar on the traditional biker jacket can be either short stub (Nehru) or fold down collar, the cuffs typically have rear placed zips, the cut narrows at the waist for an accentuated look and there at least 2 zip pockets at the waist or more if added to chest and, or sleeves. The biker jacket seen worn by many of the riders of a classic Harley Davidson motor bike have a spray of studs as well as leather tassels or plain pull straps on the zips.
Whereas the classic style is characterised by a short stub collar, also known as a Nehru collar or more classically mandarin collar, smooth contoured lines to hug the body and typically finish just past at the top of the hips, i.e. at the belly button or just past it.

A lot of the great designer style leather jackets have a biker theme or influence. The biker look has a coveted chic cool glamour that transcends gender, age and sexuality. Icons such a James Dean, Marlon Brando, Tom Cruise, Freddie Mercury, Arnold Schwarzenegger in Terminator.

Undoubtedly the classic biker jacket colour is black and cut is fitted. Actual motor bike jackets are made from cow hide leather as this much denser and thicker than nappa leather which is derived from sheep / lambs. Motor biker riders need the extra toughness of cow hide to protect their skin in the unfortunate event of cascading down a road in the event of a motor accident. High designer end jackets are crafted in supple nappa which does not need to be broken-in in the same way stiff hide does.

Which Style Will Suit Me Best

The important factor here is to first decide, do you really just have a fixed mind on a style that you really want to own and wear and therefore nothing else really matters. If this is you, then just buy what you want and enjoy it. You can also get another jacket later one if you decide you want a change. If on the other hand you do not have a fixed style in mind and what to buy yourself a jacket that you can wear and be admired in the here are the basics:

Tall Men & Women
If you are a woman that is 5' 10" or over then you will need to opt for a classic or designer style bike in a longer length as the traditional style cross over zip jackets are likely to be too short in the body for you. We would suggest that you measure the centre back length of a jacket that you have that is the right length on you, usually this would be at the top of your hip bone, i.e. just above it. For men over 6'2" who are long in the body the same would apply.

Rounded Apple Shapes
For those that do have a tummy then the traditional biker jacket that sits at the waist and broadens out through the chest to the shoulders might be the best style. The traditional biker style with either a centre or off centre zip has up-side-down (inverted) triangular shape in very rough terms so it visually creates an image that this from the shoulders down, very clever in effect.

Pear Shapes
This is where the body widens at the hips; a designer style biker jacket that is reasonably box cut or straight cut tends to work better here as it will remove emphasis from narrower shoulders to wider hips and make the body shape look more even in width and this narrow the hips. It would also need to be a longer length style that came to the hip bone.

Hours Glass Figures
This tends to be women only. Whatever size label you are, if you narrow at the waist and your chest and hips are reasonably equal in width then a figure hugging style will draw out your assets. In reality you can have your pick and just select what you like best in most of the women's leather biker jacket ranges. However if you are long in the body then a designer or longer length jacket might be better suited to your proportions, but if you are clever with what you wear then a cropped jacket can give the illusion of a longer length length and shorter body provided you are not teaming it up with hipster trousers or skirts.

Broad Shoulders & Narrow Waists
This is the male equivalent of the hour glass figure, what we can also call the 'Adonis' shape. If you tapper (i.e. narrow) from your shoulders or chest down to your waist then any of the men's leather biker jacket styles will look great, so have your pick!!

With the continuing array of enticing fashion themes and and re-harnessing of classic designs created and available the biker jacket will continually be in the limelight. Individual styling extends a wide range and choice of fits, colour and leather finishes ensuring the biker jacket does not fade as a staple wardrobe favourite. New colour choices extend from the dark brown, tans and reds to taupe (beige / dark cream) aubergine (purple), white, greens and blues.

So all in all you can be relaxed and reassured in your choice of any biker jacket style that you may fancy or select as it will most certainly serve well as a fashion accessory or statement on classic or chic and individualistic style. And most, mots important, whatever your choice always enjoy it and wear it with pride.

Budget v High Price

Buying A New Leather Jacket?

With the January sales well on the way you may be thinking of buying a new leather jacket or coat and considering the style options available whilst being thoroughly tempted on some of the great offers available.

Now is a great time to add to your winter and early spring wardrobe as there are lots of great price reductions and discount clearances on. However, regardless of how much of a bargain a purchase may seem it makes little sense unless it fits and you are going to wear it. Some very basic ground principles to start you off on your search through the January Sales, if you don't instinctively already know:

            - Think about what colours you would like or need.
            - What sort of style are you after? Do you want a classic leather blazer, fashion leather

               jacket with a modern cut or slim fit, or maybe a designer style coat jacket that has a

               unique and eye-catching expensive styling .
            - Very importantly what budget do you have available?

Whilst trudging down to the shops can be a very enjoyable as well as fruitful day out, it can at times be a little frustrating if they don't have your size available in your local store. It is always worth asking if the retailer can check stock availability at another nearby store if they have one and reserve it for you, or whether there is an online ordering facility.

Most of us get excited or at least enthused at the prospect of nabbing a great offer on a sale item and with the ongoing extension of the world wide web (www) and more and more new online retailers joining every day, online shopping is a great alternative to high street shopping especially if you are not able to get out and about that easily whether it be down to looking after young children, lack of transport or having very little spare time available, the Internet has opened up a virtual shopping centre in your living room whilst sparing you the bustling crowds, limited car parking spaces, traffic jams and expensive fuel costs.

When buying clothes online it really is worthwhile knowing your actual chest and waist measurements as American and European sizing is very different to UK. Furthermore, UK sizing varies significantly between different brand labels and retailers. So if you are keen to do your best at getting the right size in your new soft nappa leather jacket or stylish leather coat then make sure you have a tape measure and take your measurements and then check which size is suggested.

Shopping for A Sheepskin?

The British winter never fails, freezing cold temperatures are with us once again and there’s only one real contender for the warmest winter wardrobe accessory, which is of course the Sheepskin Jacket. Don’t be duped by the cheap man-made fibers sadly used by many far-east textile producers and stocked on our high streets by various high street chains. You may find that your jacket is ill equipped when it comes to keeping out the cold. Shearling wool is unrivalled by synthetic fibers when it comes to battling the chills of the bitter winter.
 
The Sheepskin Jackets have been well known and loved throughout many eras of fashion for their unique, warm and lavish style. Their classic designs have blended seamlessly through the meandering trends of fashion for decades, anchoring itself in its own vogue. Whether you’re cruising on a Harley, posing in a Ferrari or a Classic Racing Green Mini the Shearling looks chic and desirable on anyone and next to anything.
 
Reputable UK based retailers are a secure choice when you are parting with hundreds of pounds for a good quality sheepskin flying Jacket or shearling coat. Synthetic and replica sheepskins from abroad at rock find their way on to e-Bay, not only are the prices rock bottom prices but so can be the quality. The price may certainly have its appeal but authenticity can’t always be assured before purchase.
 

So if you want quality guaranteed and are unsure of what to look for then these pointers may help:
 
- Select a retailer that has abroad range of sheepskin and also lambskins if possible. Lambskins are at the top end and hence more expensive with regard to the raw material and thus is an indication that the retailer has a wider source of supply. It also gives you the a wider choice base.

- If the item seems too cheap for what is being promised then it probably is, which means that the origins of supply are more likely to be dubious.

- If you can, try to find out how long the retailer has been trading.

- If you have never worn or touched a sheepskin then it would be a good idea to go to a shop and try one on in the flesh and make sure it is what you are after.

- Italian and Spanish sheepskins are softer and a lovely medium weight making them ideal for all day wear. British sheepskins are typically a much heavier weight; whilst lovely quality the heaviness can be cumbersome for general wear and in addition these are a lot more expensive at typically at double the price.

What stylish bag are you going to take on holiday with you?

With winter drawing to an end summer is just round the corner and holiday planning will soon be on many people’s agenda. So what is the most essential holiday accessory? Most people would probably say, bikini, sunglasses maybe sun tan cream. However when you think about it when it comes to going on holiday what accessory could be more important than your luggage bag? After all it carry’s every accessory and item of clothing you could possibly need and if it got lost en route you would be utterly miserable.

If you are looking for a stylish and chic bag which has not yet hit the masses a leather cow skin bag may be just up your street. Many different patterns and styles can be fashioned from original cow skin, such as leopard print, black or brown zebra print and of course there’s the original black, brown and tan cow skin. They are made from 100% cow hide and few would argue that synthetic bags are more durable. If you have an eye for quality you can always spot a real leather holdall. Most of us have been in a situation, whether it is a nice place with smart people or bumping into someone we know or like and we immediately feel the blood rush to our cheeks in a surge of embarrassment because the bag we have got with us looks cheap, tatty and with a hard life behind it. This is where leather comes into its own. It is a natural material and like a good wine gains character as it matures. Even if you treat your leather rough it will always be immediately apparent that it is genuine leather and not a cheap synthetic copy. Also when you think about it, fake leather bags are not much cheaper than the real leather versions if you buy them at a discount price.

Have a look at our range of distinctive leather travel bags and leather weekend holdalls and grab one now whilst stocks are available and beat the summer rush.



Summer Bargains

Have you ever considered buying your winter coat in the summer? It may sound bizarre but depending on what you are looking for it could actually be the best time to buy with regard to price and style. Some styles are timeless and never go out of fashion, sheepskin jackets and shearling coats are a great example. So you could be better off buying a new leather sheepskin jacket or shearling coat now at a reduced sale price rather than waiting till next season which will start in October and taking the risk of prices going up or stock not being available till December in some instances.

If the cold winter and snow should set in early next year then a number of people are likely to be caught out. January isn’t the only time of year where you can find sales and bargains. There are always great deals to be found in the late spring and early summer for winter wear as shops and online retailers look to clear their winter stock to make room for their new summer ranges.

There are some great deals to be had at the moment. The classic styles don't change from the duffle coat to car coat or the full length and 3/4 length coat styles. These staple designs will outlive a number of us as you simply can never go wrong with any of them; they are highly practical and also very accommodating to most individual dress styles. Whether it’s a casual or smart look you’re going for a sheepskin jacket or shearling coat compliments either dress superbly.



All luxed up in leather!

If I won the lottery, the first thing I would do is to keep it to myself until the windfall had sunk in. I would then think about what I really wanted to do with the money. My current thinking would be to give some money (provided the win was sufficient) to my nearest and dearest family and very close friends. Next would be to go on an all out holiday that I would enjoy. This would give me some time to plan out my next moves which would include house, car and future financial security.

Adding to my wardrobe would be about number 10 on my list. What I would do is really scrap most of my current wardrobe and so just keeping some of my true favourites. I would buy a leather jacket for each day of the week as well as range other clothes and accessories. Leather is a true weakness of mine and strains my purse strings on a monthly basis. My love stems from handbags, skirts, trousers and of course leather jackets and coats. I’d have to say that bomber and biker jackets are probably my favourite but when winter rolls round and you want to feel that little extra warmth and snugish a sheepskin is just divine. If you prefer more of a smarter look then a blazer or a reefer jacket is just the ticket.

Leather jackets don’t just come in muggy brown or black you know, it can be crafted in any colour of the rainbow. Tan is quite a popular colour, along with red, green, blue, purple, the list goes on and on…. Probably not up every man’s alley but for us girls it’s fabulous! It’s just such a versatile and supple material. I love the way it moulds itself to your body and how it doesn’t fade over time, unlike most other clothes it actually looks better with age. You don’t need to wash or iron leather either, it’s perfect in every way!

Have You Thought of a Leather Blazer to Compliment Your Wardrobe?

With the spring and summer season just around the corner we can finally put the long dreary winter behind us and start planning those new wardrobe additions. Where better to start than with outdoor wear. Our winter coats may look smart but will almost certainly be too bulky and stuffy for the change in climate. A leather blazer is a timeless and classic garment when complimenting smart and casual wear for both men and women and they won’t overheat you. They are also totally suitable for autumn and winter if you’re going out to a bar, restaurant or party. You can’t beat leather blazers crafted from soft quality nappa leather, they fit like a glove, are super comfortable and are very versatile as you can dress them up or down. Nappa leather is derived from lambskin and is considered to be the best as it is extra soft and supple to touch as well as being very light weight adding to extra comfort.

A huge range of leather blazers for both men and women can be found online at great discount prices. Styles ranging from classic 2 and 3 button, single or double vented as well as single breast and more retro double breasted styles can be found in the shops but you may have to do some hunting around for a specialist leather shops or a designer style boutique. Alternatively if you shop online you’ll find a number of designs, colours and sizes at your fingertips. Most classic colours are black, brown and tan and if you’re after something a bit different you can always opt for the vintage finish versions.

Like most clothes for women the variety in styles and colours far exceeds the variety available to men. Anything from revered or fold down collars to plain, buttoned or fold back cuffs available in a huge range of colours. Ranging from the classic base colours black, brown, tan to more vibrant, ivory, red, purple, blue, green to name a few.

Live Life - Treat Yourself to That Leather Jacket

Now that British Summer Time has kicked in and the evenings are getting lighter each day which gives most of us the stirring to go out after work and enjoy some well earned fun and relaxation. With spring in the air lots of us think about doing a bit of de-clattering and clearing out, which inevitably means throwing out all the clothes we never wear as we don't really like them or think they suit us.

So when clearing out all the dud stuff out of the wardrobe, we realise that we are missing a few key and glue-together pieces that will complete most items, these tend to typically consist of:

•    One great leather jacket, if you have the money two jackets and one coat is even better.
•    Good fitting and nice quality pair of jeans / trousers - again depending on the budget anywhere from one to three pairs is the starting point.
•    Good pair of shoes / boots - men can get away with just one to three pairs depending on their desire for shoes and available budget. Women can also get away with one good pair of boots but will also need at least one good pair of shoes as the bare minimum.
•    Belt - at least one good quality belt that fits the trousers properly is an essential must have.
•    For ladies - accessories such as jewellery, belts, scarfs will accentuate and transform outfits.

Whatever your style a gorgeous leather jacket will always stand the test of time. Whether you opt for a classic leather jacket or something more edgy with a high fashion feel it will always give the finishing touch to your outfit. It is very hard to put your finger on it, but a quality leather jacket whether you are a man or a woman has the ability to transform your look and mood, if you look great you feel great. With our hectic schedules and busy lifestyles we need to make the most of the leisure time we have. A lot of us will save the clothes we love the most and feel the best in for special occasions, which can mean we wear them only a few times a year and before we know it the item has spent years in the wardrobe gathering dust and cobwebs. Not a lot of point in that really

So grasp life by the hand and ensure that you allow yourself at least one great leather jacket that makes you feel wonderful. It really does not matter what style it is so long it is what you like and want to wear. If you need a little inspiration then consider whether you prefer the understated elegance of a classic style or the coveted cool of the eye-catching fashion styling.

We all love the feel and touch of good quality leather, there just is nothing else like it. Since the dawn of man, we have always sought the protection of animal skin and its natural qualities: comfort, suppleness, sumptuous feel, great fit and moulding to our shape, breathability and endurance.

So don't delay, you can easily afford to award yourself a great jacket or blazer with our low online prices for assured quality.



Should I Take a Jacket or a Coat Today?

Spring kicked off surprisingly early this year in March and as usual it was looking too good to be true. In typical British fashion the unusually delightful weather has retreated and we are now back to autumn like ways. Heavy drizzle and windy conditions have once again proclaimed their upper hand and dominance outshining the sun’s heavily awaited return. So don’t store your away your jackets just yet, you may need to hang on to them just that little while longer.

You glance out of the window thinking should I take a coat or will I just end up lugging it around later if it brightens up. Will the retched weather make a turn for the worst or will the sun prevail for once and for all? As luck would have it the weather will almost certainly swing the way you don’t want it to.  So when you can’t decide what you need for the outdoors, a leather jacket is a simple and flexible choice and in particular for those uncertain weather days. Leather is just so versatile and absolutely ideal for those typical British day’s when the weather hangs on a knife edge and you are caught been a very cold start and a warm afternoon, or vice versa. Nappa leather is ideal for this time of year as it is delightfully soft, supple and lightweight so you can wear it all day long and be totally comfortable in the same way you would be with a woven jacket or blazer. Yet leather will provide great insulation from the colder evening and night chill when compared to the same garment in a woven cotton, wool or synthetic mix. It could be said that leather does everything you could ask of it. It will keep you warm and cosy in those friskily chilly mornings when the sun is just perching on the horizon teasing you with those subtle warm rays before making a full blown exodus from behind the clouds. As leather is a natural material it allows your skin to breathe and therefor will not overheat you like synthetic fibres do. It’s perfect a keeping you warm when you are cold, and not over-heating you when the temperatures are milder. 

The Parka Coat Revived in Leather

The parka coat has made a huge comeback in recent years and arguably cemented in British fashion as an iconic wardrobe accessory. Popularised in the 70’s and 80’s the original parka coat has been modernised and revived by many of the world’s top designers in the last 5 years like many timeless and classic pieces. The design was thought to be introduced commercially circa 1930’s and became popular with hunters as well as other outdoor workmen who found them incredibly practical not just for their insulating qualities and large pockets for storage.

The parka style in fact originates from various Arctic dwellers such as the Eskimo’s and Inuit’s who constructed these coats from natural materials available and treated them with waterproofing agents. The original 30s and 70s to 80s designs typically featured a hood lined with real or faux fur providing excellent protection from the cold weather as well as the merciless windy conditions encountered in some of the most extreme corners of our globe.

Nowadays the modern parka style has subtly moved away from original designs and uses which were principally made with functionality and practicality in mind however all the while maintaining an essence of its originality in order to remain avant-garde with the meandering trends of the fashion world. An example of designs which have proved to be rather popular today is the leather parka coat as well as nubuck parka jackets. Available in many different leather finishes and colours, classic black is usually the most popular in the nappa finish which can look a bit shinny as nappa does have a soft sheen when new, which may not be to everyone’s taste. If you prefer something more subdued or in a matt finish for a more vintage look, where it’s not as obvious that it is brand then a nubuck or suede finish may be more of what you’re after. There are also brushed leather finishes which can be described as being between a vintage nappa and nubuck finish.

There are so many varieties of the traditional parka coat, although some of the contemporary parkas break away from tradition, a myriad of variety in the current high street designs as a result can only be positive when we consider the many varying tastes in this world. From more traditional hooded, heavily insulated coats, to more lightweight hoodless styles as well as full length, ¾ length, mid-hip length, you certainly won’t struggle to find your perfect parka coat.