The Leather Jacket: Reinventing a Timeless Classic for 2025

As the cooler months roll in, one staple piece is making its way back into the fashion spotlight: the leather jacket. But this fall, it’s not quite the same rugged, structured silhouette that you might expect. The leather jacket is evolving, thanks in part to the influence of major runway shows and street style icons. From oversized cuts to softer, more fluid designs, 2025's leather jacket trends are pushing boundaries while staying true to the rebellious spirit that has made it a perennial wardrobe essential. Here's how the leather jacket is making a fresh comeback this season—and how you can wear it with confidence.

The Power of the Oversized Leather

Leading the charge for the upcoming season is Saint Laurent, with their dramatic shift towards oversized, slouchy designs. The brand’s 2025 collection has already begun influencing street style, with models like Bella Hadid and Gigi Hadid taking this roomy, effortless style to the streets. Their approach to the leather jacket feels more fluid, almost relaxed, as they wear it over basic wardrobe staples—think slouchy blazers, oversized t-shirts, and soft denim. This is leather with a modern twist: still tough, but also sleek and comfortable.

Saint Laurent's new designs introduce a unique take with slightly dropped shoulders and soft, belted silhouettes, offering an updated twist on the classic leather jacket. The once-rigid style is now more versatile, transitioning seamlessly between casual and office-ready looks. Anthony Vaccarello, the brand’s creative director, describes it best: “It’s a sense of control and power—while still feeling relaxed.” This new take is perfect for those who want to wear their leather with ease, whether they’re strolling down the street or heading into a meeting.

Street Style at Its Best

Off the runway, the oversized leather jacket is being worn by some of the biggest names in fashion, further cementing its place as a must-have piece this season. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Gigi Hadid have been spotted pairing their oversized leather jackets with laid-back, chic outfits, adding a touch of edge to their casual looks. This relaxed take on the classic leather jacket is perfect for the fashion-forward individual who wants to make a statement without looking too “done.”

Even when not attending shows or press events, these style icons know how to elevate their streetwear looks with a leather jacket that appears effortless yet bold. Whether it’s a softly structured piece thrown over a pair of boyfriend jeans or a belted jacket cinching the waist, these street style stars are showing that leather jackets aren’t just for the rebellious rocker anymore—they’re for the effortlessly chic, too.

New Designs to Look Out For

This fall, leather jackets are coming in all forms. JW Anderson is bringing the biker jacket back into the spotlight, but with a modern twist that feels fresh and exciting. Dilara Findikoglu's leather designs offer a tailored, waist-cinching approach, giving the jacket a more refined, feminine silhouette. Meanwhile, other designers like Knwls and Supriya Lele are bringing volume to the sleeve with exaggerated, lantern-style cuffs, creating an unexpected contrast between softness and toughness.

The most intriguing addition, however, comes from Daniel Lee’s Burberry collection. His leather jacket design takes on a distinct heritage vibe while incorporating sleek, modern elements. The addition of a waist belt adds structure, making it the perfect blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary cool.

The Rise of Vintage

There’s also a new fascination with vintage leather jackets this season. Gone are the days when tight, sleek cuts ruled the leather jacket game—now, it’s all about oversized, well-worn pieces with a history. If you’re hunting for a perfect leather jacket this fall, consider looking for an authentic, weathered style that tells a story. A vintage bomber jacket or a military aviator jacket, with its distressed finish, fits right into this season’s vibe.

Iconic figures like Patti Smith, Marlon Brando, and Marianne Faithfull have long been associated with this kind of rebellious, almost raw approach to fashion, and the trend is finally coming back full circle. The secret to pulling this off? Attitude. Leather jackets were made to be worn with confidence, and it’s that attitude that makes them timeless.

How to Wear the 2025 Leather Jacket

Whether you opt for an oversized piece, a belted design, or a vintage find, there’s no wrong way to wear a leather jacket this season. But for those looking for ways to incorporate it into your daily wardrobe, here are a few styling tips:

1. Pair with Soft Basics: Balance the structure of the leather with soft, flowing pieces. Try layering a loose leather jacket over a flowy blouse or a cozy knit for a laid-back yet fashionable look.

2. Mix with Tailoring: Don’t shy away from pairing your leather jacket with a tailored suit or dress pants. The juxtaposition between the ruggedness of leather and the sharpness of tailoring is unexpectedly chic.

3. Embrace Layering: The oversized leather jacket is perfect for layering. Add it over a hoodie or a chunky sweater as the weather gets cooler—this style feels just as cozy as it does stylish.

4. Go Vintage: Thrift stores and vintage shops are treasure troves for finding the perfect well-worn leather jacket. Seek out styles that have a lived-in look—they’ll bring a unique, effortless vibe to your outfits.

5. Accessorize Boldly: To really make a statement, pair your leather jacket with bold accessories. A chunky necklace, a wide-brimmed hat, or a statement belt can elevate your look and give it that extra edge.

The leather jacket is having a major moment in 2025, but it’s not just about the classic, cropped designs we’re used to. This season, the oversized, relaxed look is taking center stage, with designers reimagining the piece in new and exciting ways. Whether you’re drawn to the soft, belted silhouettes of Saint Laurent or the bold, structured designs seen at Burberry, there’s a leather jacket for every style this fall. Embrace the timeless cool of the leather jacket, and wear it with confidence—because this season, it’s all about making a statement that’s both effortless and powerful.